The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) have embarked on a new initiative to boost Dubai’s share in the global medical tourism market. This effort aims to establish Dubai as a leading destination for healthcare, quality of life, and overall happiness.
The two entities solidified their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which was formalized by His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, and His Excellency Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director General of DHA, with several officials and experts in attendance.
The MoU outlines goals focused on enhancing competitiveness, operational efficiency, and transparency in healthcare services, aligning with global standards. It also aims to support innovation and future foresight in healthcare, complementing the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. This agenda seeks to reinforce Dubai’s status as a premier global hub for business, tourism, and investment.
Attracting healthcare investments
Helal Saeed Almarri, director general of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, emphasized the department’s dedication to fostering partnerships and agreements that align with the ambitious vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This vision aims to enhance collaboration among various entities to support the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and elevate Dubai’s global status as a premier destination for business and leisure.
Almarri noted that the recent signing of the MoU with the Dubai Health Authority is a significant step towards strengthening relationships with a broad network of partners. This collaboration is expected to attract investments in innovative healthcare projects, host major international medical conferences, and position Dubai as the top choice for travelers seeking high-quality services.
Enhancing medical tourism and competitiveness
Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, director general of the Dubai Health Authority, acknowledged that Dubai’s strategic global position, substantial capabilities, and rapid achievements have significantly boosted its international standing, particularly in the global healthcare sector where it has gained prominence.
He further noted that Dubai has utilized its advanced infrastructure, technology, smart solutions, systems, legislation, and facilitation to create appealing investment opportunities in healthcare and ensure a secure environment. This approach has led to the attraction of numerous international hospitals and specialized centers, as well as individuals seeking a high quality of life and well-being in the city.
Al Ketbi emphasized the value of the collaboration between the Dubai Health Authority and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, highlighting that the staff of both entities work as a cohesive team towards the emirate’s vision and strategic objectives. He considered the newly signed MoU as a significant step towards revitalizing and boosting medical tourism and enhancing competitiveness in the global healthcare arena.
Strategic cooperation areas
Additionally, the MoU includes initiatives to boost healthcare sector growth by attracting investments and showcasing top-notch healthcare services. It covers digital health, business development for investors, and offers logistical and organizational support within regulatory frameworks. Both parties will work on expanding international partnerships to enhance Dubai’s healthcare sector and promote medical tourism, including official visits to healthcare facilities.
Supporting global medical events
Moreover, the deal supports the Al Safeer Congress Ambassador Programme, aimed at attracting international conferences and meetings to Dubai. It also focuses on bringing major global medical conferences to the city and enhancing cooperation in medical tourism-related exhibitions and workshops.
Read more: UAE to host major global events in September: All you need to know
Medical tourism growth
A recent DHA report highlights significant growth in medical tourism for 2023, with 691,478 international patients and healthcare spending exceeding AED 1.034 billion. This marks a rise from 674,000 patients and AED 992 million in 2022. Indirect revenues from medical tourism surpassed AED 2.305 billion, contributing notably to Dubai’s GDP by driving growth in aviation, hotels, hospitality, and other sectors. This growth reinforces Dubai’s status as a leading global hub for medical tourism and a key driver of economic development.
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