Health

As the emirate leverages its diverse leisure activities and central location, medical tourism looks set to grow beyond the $1.69bn in revenue earned in 2012. A number of health and pharmaceutical groups are eyeing Dubai as a regional centre, owing to its well-developed transport and communication links and ongoing advances in technology and research. Insurance is not currently required by law; however, legislation is in the works to introduce an employer-based health insurance mandate. When it is implemented, the law is expected to bring with it a shift in the quantity and type of medical services demanded in the emirate.

This chapter contains an interview with Essa Al Haj Al Maidoor, Director-General, Dubai Health Authority.