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Dubai provides a tightly regulated healthcare system, supported by stringent patient safety regulations and well-defined medical policies. The commitment to high-quality standards makes the emirate one of the most attractive destinations for medical tourists, skilled doctors, and private investors from all over the world. Signaling global recognition of Dubai’s healthcare sector, the number of medical tourists increased to 700,000 in 2023, up from 674,000 in 2022, according to Gulf Business. However, due to this rising demand for quality care, setting up a medical clinic in Dubai also comes with strict criteria following structured guidelines.
Irrespective of the type, whether it’s a general practice, specialized center, medical lab, or diagnostics facility, you must follow a structured framework to meet the eligibility standards for setup. These standards are set under Dubai Law No. 6 of 2018, Law No. 13 of 2007, and Executive Council Resolution No. 32 of 2012. The eligibility depends on where you trained, as the emirate sorts countries into tiers, and each tier has its own rules.
Once you find yourself eligible, you can start the process by submitting the required documents. These include passports, tenancy agreements, and professional qualifications. The complete process runs through multiple stages such as trade name approval, DHA permissions, facility inspections, and professional licensing. Additionally, clinics must follow strict infrastructure standards like room layouts, safety measures, and equipment planning, all of which are inspected by authorities such as the DED, DHA, Civil Defense, and Dubai Municipality.
Fulfilling all the conditions as requested can help you set up your clinic within 2 to 4 months, with a cost range from AED 80,000 to AED 1,000,000. However, it highly depends on different factors, including the clinic’s type, size, documentation preparation, and attempts to pass the DHA exam.
Once operational, clinics must meet regular renewal, audit, and waste disposal standards while also growing visibility through DHA-compliant advertising and partnerships. In this guide, we have covered everything in detail, which will equip you to set up any type of clinic without third-party support.
What Types of Clinics Can I Set Up in Dubai?
The types of clinics you can set up in Dubai are general clinics, specialized clinics, and day surgical centers, depending on your specialty, qualifications, and the healthcare license you have. However, each clinic has different setup requirements as each one focuses on a different healthcare sector. For instance, a general clinic provides care for common conditions and minor infections, while specialized clinics focus on specific fields, including dermatology, cardiology, or pediatrics. On top of that, you can also open more advanced facilities, such as diagnostic laboratories or outpatient surgical centers. These require separate approvals for staff, space, and equipment.
- General clinics
- Specialized clinics
- Day surgery centers
- Wellness and alternative medicine clinics
- Diagnostics and radiology centers
- General clinic
Dubai’s healthcare market is growing faster than ever. That’s why setting up a clinic in Dubai can be a great opportunity. General clinics serve a broad audience, but there’s a rising demand for their services. Common diseases, unlike diabetes and heart conditions, which require specific cardiology and diabetes clinics, can be treated anywhere, anytime in a general clinic.
- Specialized clinics
Specialized clinics focus on a specific field of medicine, including areas like dermatology, pediatrics, orthopedics, psychiatry, and more, to provide extra care for particular conditions or patient groups. Unlike general clinics, they provide targeted diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care, often using advanced equipment or procedures customized for the specialty. Below is a list of recognized specialized clinics you can establish within Dubai.
- Dental Clinic
- Dermatology Clinic
- Pediatric Clinic
- Cardiology Clinic
- Orthopedic Clinic
- Fertility Clinic
- Psychiatry Clinic
- ENT Clinic
- Ophthalmology Clinic
- Diabetes Clinic
- Neurology Clinic
- Gastroenterology Clinic
- Oncology Clinic
- Urology Clinic
- Nephrology Clinic
- Rheumatology Clinic
- Pulmonology Clinic
- Day Surgery Centers
Day surgery centers (ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) or outpatient surgery centers) in Dubai provide surgical services, including minor to medium-level surgeries. Patients can return home the same day. Unlike hospitals, they handle procedures that don’t require overnight hospitalization, such as laparoscopic surgeries or ENT procedures. The setup is more advanced than a regular clinic as it focuses on a high-value service line.
- Wellness and alternative medicine clinics
Dubai allows these clinics to focus on holistic healing and preventive care, in the shape of wellness and alternative medicine clinics, such as homeopathy and Ayurveda, rather than conventional medical treatments. Homeopathy works with diluted natural substances, while Ayurveda uses herbs, oils, and lifestyle changes. Just like other private clinics, to open this, practitioners need to have recognized qualifications in alternative medicine and be licensed by the health care authority. Along with this, facilities have to meet DHA safety and hygiene standards.
- Diagnostics and radiology centers
Diagnostics and radiology centers perform blood tests, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds, and other advanced diagnostic tasks. Mostly, they partner with clinics and hospitals by providing referral-based testing services. To set up a diagnostic center in Dubai, you first have to have a valid DHA license; then you need approval for specialized equipment, radiation safety, and qualified radiologists and lab technicians. The setup process is more technical and requires approvals for each imaging machine, waste disposal methods, and result handling protocols.
What are the Benefits of Setting Up a Private Medical Clinic in Dubai?
The Benefits of Setting Up a Private Medical Clinic in Dubai include tax-free income, repatriating 100% of your profits, getting a supportive working environment, and meeting a strong healthcare workforce. Along with this, it opens up many more opportunities such as higher earnings due to the fast-growing healthcare market with a diverse patient base including local and international patients. Below are the 13 key opportunities one can avail after opening a private medical clinic in Dubai.
- Tax-Free Income
- 100% Repatriation of Profits
- Wealthy Patient Base
- Medical Tourism Hub
- Strategic Location
- Supportive Government
- Advanced Infrastructure
- Strong Healthcare Workforce
- Business-Friendly Environment
- Growing Healthcare Market
- Flexibility in Services
- Enhanced Reputation
- Opportunity for Expansion
What are the Eligibility Criteria for a Medical Clinic Setup?
The Eligibility Criteria for Setting up a medical clinic in Dubai depend on whether you are an investor or a licensed medical professional. Investors must comply with business registration and facility rules, while healthcare professionals must meet licensing and qualification standards. Felix Happich Consultancy experts have mentioned the criteria for both, but one thing to make sure of is to check the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) updates closely, as it constantly regulates clinic ownership, licensing, and operations to ensure safety and service quality. Below are the key requirements for both categories.
Eligibility Criteria for Investors
For an investor to open a medical clinic in Dubai, it’s a must to meet the business and legal setup rules. This is because they are responsible for company formation, licensing, and facility standards. Here’s what you need as an investor:
- A valid passport and Emirates ID
- DED-approved trade name
- Business officially registered with the government
- Clinic lease agreement from the authority
- A complete set of company setup documents
- Appointed a DHA-approved medical director
- Completed a DHA clinic inspection
- Proof of clinic funds to meet financial needs
Eligibility Criteria for Healthcare Professionals
As a doctor or any healthcare professional, to open or manage a clinic, you have to meet DHA licensing standards. The criteria for this category are provided below
- Approved medical degree
- 2+ years experience
- DHA license required
- DataFlow verification needed
- Good standing proof
- Updated CV & passport
- Fit to practice
- Clinic type match
What are the Required Documents to Set Up a Medical Clinic in Dubai?
The required documents to set up a medical clinic in Dubai include a valid DHA license, passport copies of shareholders, Emirates ID, Ejari, and a reservation certificate for the business name. Additionally, you have to get initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED), submit a DHA application form, and provide the CVs and qualifications of all medical staff. Below, our expert has mentioned 15 necessary documents you will be asked for during the setup process.
- Initial approval Certificate from DED
- DHA application form
- Lease contract / Ejari
- Floor plan and layout plan
- Affection plan (Dubai Municipality)
- Plan approval documentation (from DHA)
- DHA agreement signed by owner
- Passport copies of shareholders and staff
- Visa copies (if applicable)
- Emirates ID (if resident)
- DHA Medical License
- CVs and credentials of medical staff
- DHA-approved Medical Director proof
- DEWA and Civil Defense clearance
Step-by-Step Process to Set Up a Medical Clinic in Dubai
Process to Set Up a Medical Clinic in Dubai FOLLOWS A SYSTEMATIC FRAMEWORK STARTING FROM registering a trade name, then submitting legal documents, and securing the necessary licenses based on the business activity. Additional steps involve securing local sponsorship for mainland businesses and providing passport and visa copies. However, the requirements change based on the jurisdiction, including mainland, free zone, and offshore setups.
- Reserve a Trade Name
When picking a trade name, Dubai Department of Economic Development has its own rules which you must have to follow carefully. For example, copying an existing name is not allowed. You also can’t choose a name that falsely links to public figures or government bodies. Below are a few from DED that you have to avoid while choosing a trade name for your clinic
- Names too similar to existing ones
- Words that are offensive or banned
- References to governments or authorities
- Any misleading claims or fake affiliations
- Trademarked or copyrighted terms
- Names tied to controlled or banned industries
- Special characters like @, !, or #
- Selection of the Type of Medical Clinic
Dubai offers several clinic types: general clinics, specialized clinics, day surgery centers, wellness clinics, and diagnostic centers. Your choice depends on your specialty, qualifications, and DHA license. Choosing a type will initiate a process to add your clinic to a healthcare facility in Dubai. Selecting the right choice mostly defines your success. However, a wrong choice could lead to serious trouble, both financially and legally.
- Obtain Initial Approval from DED
To start a business in Dubai, you need an apply for initial approval from the Department of Economic Development (DED). This confirms no objection to your business activity. Apply online via the Invest in Dubai portal. Choose your business activity, legal structure, pay the fee, and wait for review. Once approved, you’ll receive the certificate needed for your trade license.
- Apply for DHA Approval for Healthcare Facility
Every healthcare worker in your facility must get a license from the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). This includes doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and technicians. Without a DHA license, they cannot legally practice in Dubai. To qualify, they must:
- Hold the required educational credentials
- Pass the DHA assessment and licensing exam
- Submit proof of work experience and medical fitness
- Provide valid identification and passport copies
- Have their qualifications verified through the Primary Source Verification (PSV) process
- Submit Facility Layout and Medical Equipment Plan to DHA
To submit your facility layout and equipment plan, apply online via the DHA Licensing Portal. Upload detailed layout drawings, equipment lists, trade license, and NABIDH proof. DHA reviews your application and conducts a physical inspection. Fix any issues found. Once approved, you’ll receive your facility license.
- Obtain Facility Inspection and Clearance (DHA + Civil Defense)
- Get Final DHA Approval
- Obtain Professional Licensing for Doctors and Staff
- Secure Commercial License from DED
- Apply for Visas and Open a Business Bank Account
- Start Operations and Schedule First DHA Audit
6. Get Final DHA Approval
After passing inspections, DHA will give final approval for your clinic. This confirms that your facility meets all medical, technical, and safety standards. You’ll receive your healthcare facility license, which is required to legally operate. This step also includes uploading final documents to the DHA’s online portal. Only after this can you complete your commercial licensing process.
8. Secure Commercial License from DED
Once DHA gives final approval and you’ve assigned licensed staff, apply for a commercial license from DED or the Free Zone authority. Submit the approved trade name, tenancy contract, MoA, DHA license, and other required documents. This license officially registers your business as a medical clinic in Dubai. You must renew it annually. Without this license, you cannot legally operate or offer paid services.
9. Apply for Visas and Open a Business Bank Account
With your commercial license issued, apply for investor and staff visas through the immigration portal. Along with this, you’ll also need to open a corporate bank account to manage clinic finances. Most banks require your trade license, passport copies, Emirates IDs, and a tenancy contract. Visa applications include medical tests, Emirates ID registration, and residency stamping. This step finalizes your business setup from a legal and financial perspective.
10. Start Operations and Schedule First DHA Audit
You can now start clinic operations and check patients to the time DHA will conduct an initial audit within the first few months. They will review clinical practices, patient safety protocols, and recordkeeping. This audit is critical for long-term license renewal. Failing it could lead to fines or suspension. Maintaining everything as per healthcare standards from day one helps pass the audit and avoid penalties.
What are the Facility Infrastructure and Compliance Requirements?
A dental clinic in Dubai needs at least 200–250 sq. ft. per chair, proper ventilation, water supply, and sterilization zones. Required equipment includes dental chairs, X-ray machines with shielding, autoclaves, and instruments. The clinic must follow DHA health standards, including waste disposal, radiation safety, and infection control protocols.
Which Authorities Are Involved in Medical Clinic Setup?
The Authorities Involved in Medical Clinic Setup in Dubai are DED, DHA, Civil Defence, and so on. Each authority plays a specific role in maintaining healthcare standards. Understanding their responsibilities helps you in meeting all legal and operational requirements. Below are the 5 main authorities involved in the process.
- Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED)
- Dubai Healthcare Authority (DHA)
- Civil Defense
- Dubai Municipality (DM)
- Immigration and Labour (MOHRE)
Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED)
DED issues trade name, legal structure, and commercial licenses for mainland clinics. No clinic can operate without its initial and final business setup approvals.
Dubai Healthcare Authority (DHA)
DHA approves facility layout, equipment, and staff licenses. It inspects clinics, enforces hygiene rules, and grants the final license needed to start medical operations legally.
Civil Defense
Civil Defense checks fire alarms, emergency exits, and extinguishers. Clinics have to pass this inspection to meet safety laws for getting DHA’s final clearance to open.
Dubai Municipality (DM)
Dubai Municipality ensures clinics meet building use, zoning, and waste rules. It also approves signage, construction modifications, and public health standards before clinics can operate.
Immigration and Labour (MOHRE)
MOHRE approves employment contracts and work permits. Clinics must get labor clearance before hiring or sponsoring healthcare staff under UAE labor and immigration laws.
How Much Does It Cost to Open a Clinic in Dubai?
The cost of opening a clinic in Dubai ranges from 90,000 AED to more than 1.5M AED, depending on the type of clinic, location, number of staff, and the space it covers. This cost also covers licensing, DHA approvals, rent, insurance, and visa fees. Some expenses are one-time setup costs, while others are annual. Below is a breakdown of the main costs involved.
Clinic Location Costs
| What You Need | Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Renting a place | Lease | 7,440 – 36,800 / month |
| Buying your own clinic space | Purchasing property | 734,100 – 3,670,100+ |
Interior Fit-Out & Renovation
| What You Need | Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Room partitions and walls | Partitioning & construction | 36,800 – 183,600 |
| Flooring, lights, water fixtures | Flooring, lighting, plumbing | 18,450 – 73,500 |
| Setting up front desk and lounge | Reception and waiting area setup | 11,110 – 36,800 |
Medical Tools & Furniture
| What You Need | Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Stethoscopes, BP monitors, etc. | Basic examination tools | 18,450 – 73,500 |
| X-ray, ultrasound, diagnostic tools | Diagnostic equipment | 110,200 – 734,100 |
| Beds, chairs, desks, cabinets | Clinic furniture | 18,450 – 55,150 |
Legal and Licensing Paperwork
| What You Need | Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Company formation and license | Business registration & trade license | 1,935 – 18,450 |
| Health authority approvals | DHA/DOH/MOHAP certifications | 3,770 – 36,800 |
| Insurance (for clinic and staff) | Malpractice, property, liability | 18,450 – 73,500 / year |
Clinic Staff & Training
| What You Need | Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Annual salary for doctor(s) | Doctor(s) salary | 367,100 – 1,101,100 / year |
| Annual salary for nurses | Nurse(s) salary | 183,600 – 293,700 / year |
| Front desk and office staff | Admin & Reception | 110,200 – 183,600 / year |
| Courses and training sessions | Staff training programs | 7,440 – 36,800 |
Tech Setup & Software
| What You Need | Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic health records software | EHR System | 18,450 – 183,600 |
| Online booking and clinic website | Website & appointment system | 7,440 – 36,800 |
| Laptops, printers, networking | Computers, printers, WiFi | 18,450 – 55,150 |
Marketing & Clinic Branding
| What You Need | Item | Estimated Cost (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Logo, color theme, business cards | Logo & branding assets | 3,770 – 18,450 |
| Social media and online ads | Digital marketing campaigns | 7,440 – 36,800 |
| Clinic signboard and flyers | Signage & print materials | 3,770 – 18,450 |
This estimated total Setup Cost is AED 100,000 – 220,000 for small to mid-sized clinic setup.
How Much Time is Required to Open a Medical Clinic in Dubai?
The Time required to open a Medical Clinic in Dubai ranges from 4 to 12 months, depending on document readiness, authority response, and facility setup. Below is an estimated timeline showing how long each phase typically takes under normal conditions.
| Step | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Trade Name Reservation | 1–2 days |
| Initial Approvals | 5–7 business days |
| DHA Facility Approval | 15–30 days |
| Final Inspection & License | 2–3 weeks |
What is the Best Jurisdiction to Set Up a Medical Clinic in Dubai?
Jurisdiction is a key decision when it comes to business in Dubai. Better choice leads to unlimited earning potential, and the reverse could cause you to incur a huge loss. The reason is each has its licensing authority, patient access rules, and ownership benefits. Your choice will affect where you can operate. Overall, you have 2 choices.
- Mainland
- Freezone
Mainland Options
Setting up a clinic in Dubai Mainland lets you serve all residents without location limits. The business license comes from the Dubai Department of Economic Development (DED), while medical approval is through the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Just like freezone, 100% foreign ownership is now allowed, giving clinic owners more control over operations.
Free Zone Options
Free Zone in Dubai, like Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC), allows 100% foreign ownership and easier setup. It’s ideal for clinics targeting medical tourists, wellness services, or niche treatments. Licensing is managed by DHCC Authority, not DHA. Clinics can only serve patients inside the zone unless special approval is granted. This setup suits international groups needing smoother import/export of medical supplies and a healthcare-focused environment for operations.
What are the Common Mistakes to Avoid in the Setup Process?
Setting up a medical clinic in Dubai involves strict regulatory steps. Small oversights can delay approvals, increase costs, or lead to license rejection. To avoid setbacks, it’s important to follow DHA guidelines closely and understand the common mistakes many new clinic owners make during the setup phase.
- Submitting an incomplete DHA application
- Choosing a non-compliant clinic layout
- Hiring unlicensed or non-equivalized staff
- Ignoring insurance and facility audit standards
- Misunderstanding DHA classification codes
What are the Post-Setup Ongoing Renewals for a Clinic in Dubai?
After setting up your medical clinic, you have to follow some ongoing legal procedures to keep your clinic legally operational. These include license renewals, inspections, staff training updates, and medical waste reporting. It leads to fines, service disruption, or license suspension by DHA if you are not able to fulfill these.
- Renewing both the commercial and DHA facility license by submitting updated documents, paying fees, and maintaining insurance.
- Preparing for unannounced DHA audits that check hygiene, staff licensing, infection control, and patient safety records.
- Every doctor needs to complete their CME hours each year to renew their license.
- Clinics should keep proper records of how they dispose of medical waste and share regular updates with DHA or the Municipality.
How to Market and Promote Your Clinic in Dubai?
To Market your clinic in Dubai, you have to maintain balance between visibility and legal standards. Healthcare marketing is allowed, but you have to follow DHA advertising rules while using smart online and offline methods to attract and retain patients. Using patient testimonials, before-and-after photos, or unverified claims without permission is strictly prohibited. Below are 3 proven advertising methods that work within Dubai’s healthcare environment.
- Google Maps and Health Directories
List your clinic on Google Maps and UAE directories like HealthHub, DoctorUna, and Okadoc. Accurate info builds trust and visibility.
- Online Booking and Consultation Platforms
Use online booking and teleconsultation tools to reach digital-first patients. It makes scheduling easy, boosts feedback, and builds loyalty.
- Partnerships with Insurance Providers
Partnering with top insurance companies like Daman, AXA, or MetLife helps bring more insured patients to your clinic and builds trust.
How Felix Happich Business Consultancy Can Help You in Setting Up a Medical Clinic in Dubai?
Felix Happich Business Consultancy is providing medical clinic set-up services in Dubai for over 5 years. Our Expert team handles every part of the process, including selecting the right license best suited to the respective jurisdiction, documentation, legal consultations, and managing staff licensing, DHA portal registration, and facility inspections. Our years of experience help you save time and reduce costly mistakes. In short, our team provides
- End-to-end business setup
- DHA application and PRO support
- Legal consultation and document handling
- Office space and clinic fit-out assistance
- Licensing for staff and facility
- Post-setup support (renewals, compliance)
FAQs:
What is a Clinic License in Dubai?
The Clinic License is a DHA healthcare facility certificate that is compulsory for every healthcare professional and facility to set up their medical clininc in Dubai. This license ensures professionals but also withstand Federal Law No. 6 of 2023 and Law No. 6 of 2018.
