Dubai to attract 500,000 medical tourists by 2020

Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum launches the Dubai Health Authority's project to revitalise medical tourism in the emirate

Dubai hopes to attract half a million medical tourists by the year 2020 as part of the 'Dubai, a Global Destination for Medical Tourism' project launched by His Highness Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai.
The project will be implemented by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), and is designed to revitalise medical tourism in the city and make Dubai a favoured destination for travellers hoping to see doctors. Shaikh Hamdan has directed the DHA to maintain a close relationship with all concerned and supportive parties involved in the project to achieve the desired objectives.
He noted that the project must be implemented in accordance with the approved timeline, and stressed that cooperation and concerted efforts of all parties will contribute to its success. He stressed that achieving the project's goals is important given that medical tourism has become an important segment of international tourism.
The 'Dubai Healthcare Experience Programme, DXH' proved a comprehensive package of specialised medical services in collaboration with strategic partners that include the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai and Emirates, as well as a number of other private sector entities.
DHA has adopted a brand - suitable with Dubai's image - for the project, and a website supported with social media channels to promote medical tourism, in collaboration with 25 healthcare facilities.
Tourists seeking treatment can use the website to learn about available medical services, which include cosmetic surgery, orthopedics, ophthalmology, dental, treatments and specialized tests, among others. The website will also allow the tourists to purchase medical service packages from facilities in Dubai, book tickets and hotels and get a medical tourism visas as well as receive other medical and tourism information needed to plan their trip and ultimately get the treatment they need.
Humaid Al Qatami, Chairman of the Board and Director-General of DHA, said that the authority is up to the challenge and that it will require hard work and perseverance.
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• Dubai