June 10, 2025
The healthcare ecosystem in Dubai is world class in its infrastructure and compliant environment. As the demand for quality continues to increase many expats are asking, ‘Can we own a medical clinic in Dubai?’ and the answer is yes, with limitations regarding compliance and conditions.
Expatriate doctors in the UAE can own and operate a medical clinic in Dubai. However, there are some legal and regulatory frameworks to navigate when establishing your business. Generally there are two ways to structure ownership of a medical clinic in Dubai:
1) By forming a UAE owned company with a mainland license through the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED).
When establishing your business as a mainland company, expatriates may own only 49% of the business with a UAE national owning 51%. However, recent legislation with the introduction of the UAE Foreign Direct Investment Law allows for 100% ownership of a company in selected sectors, health care included, with relevant approvals from various authorities like the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP).
To open a medical clinic in Dubai, expats must obtain various approvals, including:
1) A professional license from the DED or Free Zone Authority.
2) A facility license from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).
3) Medical Staff Licensing for all doctors, nurses, and technicians through the DHA.
4) Civil Defense Approval to ensure the safety of the clinic and compliance with fire standards.
5) Trade Name Registration approved in alignment with DHA
The entire process can take anywhere from 2 to 4 months, depending on the size of the clinic and its area of specialization.
Dubai’s healthcare market is projected to grow to AED 39.4 billion ($10.7 billion) by 2025 (DHA). With nearly 89% of residents being expats in Dubai, it is anticipated that there will be increased demand for specialized outpatient clinics, dental care, aesthetic treatment, and preventive health centers.
The Government of Dubai and Abu Dhabi is, in fact, also striving to incentivize private sector participation to relieve some pressures on public health services. This presents a huge opportunity for qualified expats wanting to invest in the healthcare marketplace.
Dubai’s healthcare market is projected to grow to AED 39.4 billion ($10.7 billion) by 2025 (DHA). With nearly 89% of residents being expats in Dubai, it is anticipated that there will be increased demand for specialized outpatient clinics, dental care, aesthetic treatment, and preventive health centers.
The Government of Dubai and Abu Dhabi is, in fact, also striving to incentivize private sector participation to relieve some pressures on public health services. This presents a huge opportunity for qualified expats wanting to invest in the healthcare marketplace.
Understanding legal requirements in Dubai can be confusing. However, Unique Healthcare consultancy understands how to help expats open and run medical clinics in Dubai. UHC understands how to navigate the final components of clinic openings from DHA licensing to running corporate structure. We make sure you are compliant and ready to launch with absolute confidence. Want to set up a medical clinic in Dubai? Contact Unique Healthcare Consultancy and take action today towards building your healthcare legacy in the UAE.
