Food Poisoning on Holiday in Dubai: When to Call a Doctor
Trying new restaurants is one of the best parts of a Dubai trip. Occasionally, it ends with a night of vomiting and cramps. Most cases settle on their own, but some need a doctor, and you can be treated without leaving your room.
- Most food poisoning settles within one to three days.
- The biggest risk is dehydration, especially in Dubai's heat.
- Sip fluids little and often. Oral rehydration solution is better than plain water.
- Call a doctor if you cannot keep fluids down, or symptoms are severe or lasting.
Common symptoms
- Nausea and vomitingOften starts a few hours after the meal.
- DiarrhoeaWatery, frequent stools.
- Stomach crampsPain that comes in waves.
- Fever and chillsA mild fever is common.
- WeaknessFeeling drained and shaky.
- HeadacheOften linked to dehydration.
What to do in the first few hours
- Rest. Stay in a cool room and let your stomach settle.
- Sip fluids. Small sips every few minutes. Oral rehydration sachets from a pharmacy replace lost salts.
- Eat lightly when ready. Plain foods such as toast, rice, bananas or crackers.
- Avoid alcohol, coffee, fizzy drinks, dairy and spicy or fatty food until you recover.
- Wash hands well to avoid passing it to others in your group.
When to call a doctor
Call a doctor if any of these apply:
- You cannot keep any fluids down for several hours.
- Signs of dehydration: very little or dark urine, dizziness, dry mouth, or a racing heart.
- A high fever.
- Symptoms lasting more than two or three days, or getting worse.
- The person ill is elderly, pregnant, a young child, or has a long-term condition.
A doctor can examine you in your room, give anti-sickness medicine, and start IV fluids if you are dehydrated. Most people feel much better within hours.
When to go to hospital
Call an ambulance on 998 if there is:
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Severe, constant abdominal pain
- Confusion, fainting or extreme drowsiness
- Blurred vision or muscle weakness after eating
Frequently asked questions
How long does food poisoning last?
Most cases settle within one to three days. See a doctor if symptoms last longer or get worse.
Can a doctor treat food poisoning in my hotel room?
Yes. A DHA-licensed doctor can examine you, give medication, and start IV fluids if needed, all in your room.
Should I take anti-diarrhoea tablets?
They can help some adults, but not if you have a fever or blood in your stool. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first.
Is food poisoning more common in summer in Dubai?
Heat helps bacteria grow faster, so the risk rises when food is not stored properly. Dehydration also sets in faster in the heat.
Speak to a doctor today
DHA-licensed doctors at your hotel, home or office, anywhere in Dubai, 24 hours a day.
+971 52 8920615