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United Arab Emirates medical visa

The UAE (mostly Dubai and Abu Dhabi) issues a dedicated Medical Visa — 90 days, multiple entry, extendable twice for another 90 days each. Emirate-by-emirate health authority (DHA in Dubai, DOH in Abu Dhabi, MOHAP federal) handles approval in coordination with the hospital. Visit Visa route also works for shorter elective procedures.

53 hospitals Last updated May 5, 2026.

United Arab Emirates

Medical Visa or Visit Visa

Takes about 3 days
Processing
About 3 days
Stay allowed
90 days
Extendable
Yes
Family can come
Yes
Documents you need
  • Passport valid 6+ months
  • Hospital invitation letter stamped by the relevant health authority (DHA/DOH/MOHAP) · we help you get it
  • Treatment plan with cost estimate
  • Proof of funds
  • Travel insurance
  • Return ticket
  • For attendants: proof of first-degree relation
  • Emirates ID required for long stays.

Visa-free entry and e-visa eligibility depend on your nationality. Check the official website or ask your coordinator before you apply.

Official visa website
Insider tip

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and Mediclinic Middle East lead complex cardiac and oncology cases. Cosmetic tourism clusters in Dubai. Emirate-specific physician licensing means a surgeon licensed by DHA can't operate at an Abu Dhabi hospital without re-licensing — confirm the specific surgeon is licensed in the emirate where your procedure takes place.

From first enquiry to boarding pass

  1. Share your case

    Upload imaging + current treatment plan. We share with 2-3 hospitals, get back itemized quotes in 48 hr.

    Day 1-2

  2. Pick a hospital

    Confirm the chosen hospital in United Arab Emirates. They issue the invitation letter + treatment plan letter on letterhead.

    Day 3-5

  3. Apply for visa

    Submit Medical Visa or Visit Visa application with hospital documentation. Processed in ~3 working days.

    Day 6-9

  4. Finalise travel

    Book flights + accommodation. Your coordinator arranges airport pickup, SIM card, interpreter if needed.

    1-2 weeks pre-travel

  5. Arrive + treat

    Land → check in → case manager meets you at the hospital. Everything pre-scheduled.

    Day of arrival

Common visa questions

Do I need a medical visa for United Arab Emirates?

Yes — United Arab Emirates requires a Medical Visa or Visit Visa for treatment travel. Processing typically takes 3 working days.

How long does the visa last?

90 days, extendable. Family attendants can be included on related visa categories.

Can family members travel with me?

Yes — most destinations including United Arab Emirates issue attendant visas for immediate family travelling with the patient. Relationship documentation is typically required.

What should I prepare before applying?

Get your hospital's invitation letter in writing (not just email), translate civil documents if required, photograph your passport + photos in advance, and have 3-6 months of bank statements ready. Your case manager prepares most of this bundle for you.

Is Medcasts help with the visa included?

Yes — visa invitation letter, documentation checklist, and embassy-appointment coordination are all part of the standard case-manager service. You handle the in-person appointment if one is required; we handle the paperwork bundle.

More for your trip to United Arab Emirates