Top of the charts: UAE leads in healthcare services across the GCC

Another day, another accolade!

While the UAE has been chartering the movement for innovation, success, stability and quality of life globally, the country has also begun setting major standards within the GCC - popularly coming to be known as the best place to work, live and holiday when compared to other GCC countries.

So, would it come as a surprise if we were to say, the UAE has been leading in healthcare as well across all of GCC?

Let us tell you everything you need to know…

Earning its title - The best healthcare sector in GCC

According to a survey conducted by CMC Hospital Dubai, which gathered insights from 1,680 residents across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait, the UAE’s healthcare sector is earning significant recognition.

All the systems and innovative technology in the UAE have outshined even the most well-regarded systems in the US and Europe - now, those are some standards set.

This survey has also highlighted that 29% of GCC residents view the UAE as having the strongest healthcare reputation in the region with the majority of doctors being expat doctors from all over the world, holding their certifications from the best universities globally.

This significant figure reflects the UAE’s ongoing investment in its medical infrastructure, advanced technology, and skilled healthcare professionals. By consistently improving these areas, the UAE has not only met but exceeded the expectations of locals and expats too.

How far could you go for quality healthcare?

Another impressive thing found from the survey is the high willingness of GCC residents to travel for healthcare.

84% of respondents shared their readiness to seek medical care outside their home country if it meant accessing better treatment. This willingness comes with the importance of quality healthcare in the region. Specifically, 21% of Saudi residents, 35% of Qataris, and 25% of Kuwaitis are open to travelling to another Middle Eastern country for medical services, with many looking towards the UAE as their preferred destination.

Since Dubai has a wide range of hospitals catering to almost all, if not every problem with insurance providers and accepters globally, it is quite easy for people to seek healthcare services in the UAE.

Looking into financial commitments for healthcare

The survey also showed that a significant portion of GCC residents are willing to pay out of pocket for healthcare services abroad when insurance does not cover the costs.

Approximately 71% of those surveyed indicated their willingness to pay in cash for treatments outside their home country, especially in the UAE.

Looking into: Health concerns in the UAE

To conclude, the survey questioned participants on the prevalent health concerns among GCC residents.

Some of these were - Gastroenterology, obesity, diabetes, and back and neck problems as the most common issues. Obesity emerged as the leading concern in Saudi Arabia, while gastroenterology, diabetes, and back and neck problems were most prevalent in Kuwait. These findings point to the pressing need for specialised healthcare services in these areas, which the UAE is well-equipped to provide.

Awesome, isn’t it?

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