Dubai may soon introduce a “smart medical visa” to make it easier for patients who are travelling to the emirate for treatment, according to reports on Tuesday. The new system is expected to also improve services for medical tourists.
This step comes after a new agreement between the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA Dubai) and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), as per the reports.
How will it work
The purpose is to create a simple and connected healthcare journey. It will link visa services, residency, and medical care.
This process will start before patients arrive in Dubai and continue during treatment and follow up care.
The agreement was signed by Lt. Gen. Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA Dubai, and Dr Alawi Sheikh Ali, Director General of DHA, reports add.
Both sides will work together to make medical visa procedures easier. They will also support health tourism. It will also improve the connection with health insurance services.
The plan includes better systems for members of the Dubai Health Experience. This will help patients apply for medical visas more quickly. The system is designed for patients coming from outside the UAE.
Dubai Health Experience (DXH)
The Dubai Health Experience, also called DXH, was launched in April 2016. It promotes Dubai as a global destination for healthcare, recovery, and wellness.
Dubai medical tourism visa
Medical tourism visas in Dubai are available for 90 or 180 days. They can be both single entry or multiple entry. They can also be extended if the patient needs more treatment.
Patients need to be sponsored by a licensed hospital or healthcare facility in the UAE. These facilities handle the visa process and arrange treatment in approved hospitals.
In addition to this, companion visas are also available for family members or caregivers.
Lt. Gen. Al Marri said the partnership will create a more flexible system that connects healthcare and residency services.
Dr Alawi Sheikh Ali said that the agreement will help Dubai become a leading global destination for healthcare and wellness.
