The United Arab Emirates has become a preferred destination for patients seeking high-quality medical treatment.
With advanced hospitals, internationally trained doctors, and efficient healthcare infrastructure, many international patients choose the UAE especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi for specialised care.
To receive treatment in the UAE legally, patients need to enter the country with the correct visa.
This guide explains the different visa options available and the requirements for each. It also shows you how to prepare for your visit to the UAE with support from a hospital or a medical facilitator.
My 1Health helps international patients through every step of their treatment journey from visa support to hospital coordination and arrival assistance.
Types of Visas for Medical Travel to the UAE
Depending on your nationality, treatment needs, and hospital arrangements, there are two main visa pathways for receiving treatment in the UAE:
1. Medical Visa (Entry Permit for Treatment)
Issued through sponsorship by a licensed hospital in the UAE.
What is Sponsorship for a Medical Visa?
When a medical visa is issued “through sponsorship,” it means that a licensed and registered hospital in the UAE officially requests the UAE immigration authority to grant you (the patient) an entry permit for the purpose of receiving treatment.
The hospital becomes your visa sponsor, and is responsible for:
- Submitting your visa application to immigration
- Providing the required documentation (e.g., medical invitation letter)
- Vouching for the authenticity of your treatment need
- Complying with immigration regulations during your stay
2. Tourist Visa (for General Travel and Treatment Access)
Accepted in many cases for short-term, non-critical treatments. However, some countries must apply through a formal medical visa route only.
Single Entry vs Multiple Entry Visa
Single Entry Visa
A single entry visa allows you to enter the UAE only once. After you leave the country, even if your visa is still valid, you cannot re-enter using the same visa.
If you need to return, you must apply for a new visa.
Example:
You enter the UAE for treatment, stay 30 days, and return home. Even if your visa is valid for 60 days, you cannot re-enter once you leave.
Multiple Entry Visa
A multiple entry visa allows you to enter and leave the UAE multiple times during the visa’s validity period without needing to reapply each time.
Example:
You come to the UAE for a procedure, fly back home for a short recovery, and return to the UAE for follow p all under the same visa, as long as it's still valid.
What is a Medical Visa to the UAE?
A medical visa is an official entry permit that allows international patients to enter the UAE for the purpose of medical treatment. It is sponsored by the hospital or medical facility where the treatment will take place.
- Issued as a single-entry or multiple-entry permit
- Typically valid for 60 to 90 days
- Can be processed by public or private hospitals that are licensed and registered in the UAE
- Available in all seven Emirates, with separate issuing bodies depending on location
Who Issues the Medical Visa?
In Dubai
Visas are processed by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
In Abu Dhabi and Northern Emirates
Visas are processed through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP), accessed via the eChannels platform.
Documents Required for a Medical Visa (Patient Entry Permit)
Whether applying through GDRFA or ICP, the following documents are commonly required:
- Passport copy of the patient
- Letter from the hospital explaining the medical condition and treatment
- Proof of health insurance
- Financial security or guarantee (as per hospital or immigration requirements)
Patient Companion Entry Permits
Patients may be accompanied by family members or attendants, who can apply for a companion visa.
These are issued with the same entry type (single or multiple) and require:
- Companion’s passport copy
- Proof of insurance
- Financial security
- Must enter together with the patient
Companion permits can usually be extended once, with proof that the patient continues to require support during treatment.
Can You Receive Treatment on a Tourist Visa?
Yes, many international patients can legally receive treatment in the UAE while on a Tourist Visa, especially for outpatient procedures or evaluations.
Tourist visas are:
- Easier to apply for
- Available through airlines, travel agents, and hotel partners
- Valid for 30 or 60 days, single or multiple entry
- Extendable under certain conditions
However, certain nationalities are not eligible for medical treatment under a tourist visa and must apply through the hospital using a medical entry permit.
Tourist Visa Requirements (for Medical Treatment)
To apply for a tourist visa, you may need:
- Completed visa application form
- Passport-sized colour photo (white background)
- Valid passport (6 months minimum)
- Confirmed return airline ticket
- Proof of hotel booking or accommodation
- Additional documents such as birth/marriage certificates for dependents
Tourist visas are subject to UAE immigration policies and airline-specific requirements. Applications are often submitted through Emirates Airlines, travel operators, or hotel visa desks.
Validity and Extension Options
| Visa Type | Duration After Entry | Entry Type | Extendable |
| Medical Visa | 60–90 days | Single or Multiple | Yes, based on hospital letter |
| Tourist Visa | 30 or 60 days | Single or Multiple | Yes, extendable once with passport and ticket |
Extensions must be requested before visa expiry. Visit the immigration office or contact your visa sponsor for assistance.
How My 1Health Can Help
At My 1Health, we understand that travelling abroad for medical treatment involves more than just finding the right doctor it’s about making the entire journey as smooth, safe, and stress-free as possible.
We offer medical facilitation for international patients seeking treatment in the UAE, working closely with a trusted network of leading hospitals in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Emirates.
Here’s how we support you every step of the way:
Before You Travel
- We help you select the right hospital and specialist based on your medical needs.
- We coordinate with the hospital to obtain a medical invitation letter that supports your visa application.
- Our team assists with the medical entry permit process or provides guidance if you are eligible for a tourist visa.
- We provide you with a personalised document checklist and guidance to complete your visa and travel formalities correctly.
During Your Journey
- We arrange airport pickups, local transportation, and hotel accommodation near your treatment facility.
- Our on-ground partners help you settle in comfortably and ensure you get to your first appointment on time.
- We offer language interpretation, navigation support, and cultural guidance as needed.
Throughout Your Stay
- We remain in close contact with the hospital and medical team to help monitor your treatment journey.
- We provide ongoing support to both patients and accompanying companions from emotional reassurance to logistics assistance.
- If your treatment plan requires more time, we assist with visa extensions and follow up care coordination.
After Treatment
- We support your return travel arrangements, post-treatment advice, and follow-up consultations if required.
- You’ll also have access to our team for ongoing communication with your treating doctors.
Whether you are coming for a single procedure or a complex treatment plan, My 1Health ensures you are never alone in the process. Our job is to take care of the details so you can focus on what matters most your health and recovery.
