Medical tourism refers to the practice of traveling to another country to receive medical treatment or healthcare services. It involves individuals seeking medical procedures or surgeries that may be more expensive, have long waiting lists, or not available in their home country. People often choose medical tourism to access high-quality medical care at lower costs or to combine treatment with a vacation. Medical tourism has become increasingly popular over the years due to several factors. These include the rising cost of healthcare in many developed countries, long waiting times for certain procedures, the availability of advanced medical technology in other countries, and the opportunity to combine medical treatment with travel and tourism experiences.

The UAE's medical tourism market has flourished due to its strategic geographical location, accessibility through well-connected airports, and reliable transportation. The country's reputation for safety and quality, adherence to international standards, and presence of accredited healthcare facilities instil trust in patients. The UAE offers a wide range of treatments and procedures, including advanced medical interventions, wellness care, cosmetic procedures, dental treatments, and fertility services. Moreover, the integration of luxury hospitality with healthcare services creates a unique and indulgent medical experience. With its world-class healthcare infrastructure, specialist expertise, government support, and diverse offerings, the UAE has become a prominent destination for medical tourism in the Middle East and globally.

However, the UAE Medical tourism market is not without its challenges. One of the main challenges is continuity of care, which is a critical challenge for medical tourists receiving treatment abroad, as coordinating ongoing care and follow-up treatments can be complex. The lack of seamless continuity of care may pose difficulties for patients upon returning to their home countries. Besides, Travel-related risks are inherent when patients travel long distances for medical treatment. There is a possibility of complications arising during travel or post-operative issues during the return journey. Patients and their families must carefully consider these risks and make informed decisions regarding medical tourism. Additionally, Limited insurance coverage can also be a barrier for patients seeking medical tourism in the UAE. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered by insurance plans, making them less accessible or financially burdensome for patients.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought forward safety concerns and uncertainties, leading to a decline in medical tourism. The fear of contracting the virus and uncertainties surrounding travel and healthcare hindered potential medical tourists. Concerns about the safety of hospitals, clinics, and travel itself eroded patient confidence in pursuing treatment abroad.

The pandemic also accelerated the adoption of telemedicine and virtual consultations. Patients sought remote healthcare options, accessing medical advice and treatment without the need for travel. Additionally, individuals increasingly preferred local healthcare to mitigate the risks and uncertainties associated with international travel. This shift towards telemedicine and a focus on local healthcare contributed to the decline in medical tourism during the pandemic. Overall, the pandemic has led to a redirection of focus towards domestic healthcare needs in the UAE. Healthcare systems, including in the UAE, have been strained by the pandemic, necessitating a shift in priorities to manage its impact on the local population. Consequently, limited resources and attention have been allocated to the promotion and support of medical tourism, as the emphasis has been on addressing the immediate challenges posed by the pandemic within the country.

The market study provides market data by competitive landscape, revenue analysis, market segments and detailed analysis of key market players such as; Shifa International, The Medical Tourism Center, Anavara, Tours Cure, Thumbay Medical Tourism, Ontime Healthcare, Royal Cure

By Type: Based on type, UAE Medical Tourism Market is segmented as; Inbound and Outbound.

By Treatment Type: Based on the Treatment Type, UAE Medical Tourism Market is segmented as; Dental, Orthopaedic, Cosmetic, Paediatric, Fertility, Gynaecological, Others.

By Region: This report also provides the data for key regional segments of Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Rest of UAE.

This study also encompasses various drivers and restraining factors of this market for the forecast period. Various growth opportunities are also discussed in the report.