Visiting Dubai With a Medical Condition: A Traveller's Checklist
Living with a long-term condition should not stop you enjoying Dubai. A little planning before you fly, especially around medicines and the heat, makes the trip safer and far less stressful.
- Check the UAE rules before packing any controlled medicines. Some need a permit in advance.
- Carry prescriptions and a doctor's letter, and keep medicines in hand luggage.
- Get travel insurance that covers your condition.
- Plan for the heat. Dehydration affects many conditions.
Before you fly
- Speak to your own doctor about the trip, especially if your condition has changed recently.
- Ask for a letter listing your condition, your medicines and their doses.
- Pack enough medicine for the whole trip, plus a few extra days.
- Buy travel insurance that clearly covers your pre-existing condition.
- Save your insurer's emergency number in your phone.
Bringing medicines into the UAE
The UAE controls some medicines that are sold freely elsewhere, including certain strong painkillers, sleeping tablets and medicines for anxiety or ADHD.
- Check the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) list of controlled medicines before you travel.
- If your medicine is controlled, apply for prior approval to bring it in for personal use before you fly.
- Carry your prescription and medical report with the medicines.
- Keep medicines in their original, labelled packaging.
Rules can change, so check the official guidance on Dubai.ae before you travel.
Managing your condition in the heat
- DiabetesHeat and activity change blood sugar. Check it more often and keep insulin cool.
- Heart conditionsHeat makes the heart work harder. Plan outdoor time for early morning or evening.
- Blood pressureSome medicines raise the risk of dehydration and dizziness. Drink regularly.
- Kidney conditionsAsk your doctor how much fluid is right for you in hot weather.
- AsthmaKeep your inhaler with you, including on desert trips.
- PregnancyRest often, stay cool and stay hydrated.
Getting medical help while you are here
If you feel unwell in Dubai, you do not have to find a clinic in an unfamiliar city. A DHA-licensed doctor can visit your hotel room, review your condition and medicines, and treat you there.
- We provide a medical report and receipt for your insurance claim.
- If you run short of a regular medicine, a doctor can assess you and advise on a local prescription.
- If hospital care is needed, the doctor will tell you and help with the next step.
In an emergency, call 998 for an ambulance.
- Chest pain, breathing difficulty or stroke signs
- Very high or very low blood sugar with confusion
- Fainting or collapse
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my prescription medicines to Dubai?
Most everyday medicines are fine for personal use with a prescription. Some controlled medicines need prior approval from UAE authorities, so check before you travel.
What if I run out of medicine in Dubai?
A DHA-licensed doctor can assess you and advise on getting a suitable local prescription.
Can a doctor visit my hotel if my condition flares up?
Yes. We visit hotels across Dubai 24 hours a day.
Will I get documents for my travel insurance?
Yes. We provide a medical report and receipt so you can submit a claim.
Speak to a doctor today
DHA-licensed doctors at your hotel, home or office, anywhere in Dubai, 24 hours a day.
+971 52 8920615