UAE Specialty Clinics: Finding the Right Doctor for You
Find the right specialist in the UAE without guesswork. Use DHA Sheryan to check licenses, compare fees, and book verified doctors in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Start with an official source
Every licensed doctor in Dubai and Abu Dhabi must appear in the DHA Sheryan portal. Search by specialty, language, and location to confirm the doctor holds an active DHA or DOH license before you book. This single step removes most risk for expats new to the system.
Check fee transparency first
Private clinics must display consultation prices on their websites or at reception. Typical first-visit fees range from AED 300 for general internal medicine to AED 700 for cardiology or neurology. Ask the clinic for the exact package price if scans or blood tests are likely. DHA Sheryan now shows average consultation costs next to each profile, so you can compare before you call.
Verify the clinic and the doctor
Look for the DHA or DOH facility license number on the clinic website and reception desk. Cross-check both the doctor and the clinic in Sheryan. If the numbers do not match the portal, treat the appointment as unverified. Most reputable clinics list their license numbers in the footer of every page and on appointment confirmation emails.
Use verified directories
Besides Sheryan, the DHA publishes an official list of approved specialty centers on its website. Hospitals such as Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Mediclinic, and American Hospital Dubai appear on this list. Cross-reference any new clinic you find through Google or Instagram against the official DHA list before you commit.
Plan for a second opinion
Most insurance plans in the UAE allow one second opinion within the same specialty at no extra cost when the first diagnosis affects surgery or long-term medication. Book the second visit at a different hospital group to get an independent view. Keep digital copies of scans and blood reports; clinics usually accept DICOM files on USB or through their patient portal.
Language and cultural fit
Filter doctors in Sheryan by spoken languages. Many specialists list Arabic, English, Hindi, Urdu, Russian, and Tagalog. If ongoing care is needed, choose a doctor whose clinic offers nurse call-backs in your language for test results and prescription renewals.
Book and follow up
Once you select a doctor, book through the clinic app or the DHA Sheryan patient portal. You will receive an SMS with a reference number. Arrive 15 minutes early with Emirates ID or passport plus your insurance card. After the visit, request a typed report in English; most clinics send it by email within 24 hours.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a doctor is licensed in Dubai?▾
Search the doctor name in the DHA Sheryan portal. An active DHA license number and expiry date must appear.
What is the usual first consultation fee?▾
AED 300 to AED 700 depending on specialty. DHA Sheryan now shows average prices next to each profile.
Can I get a second opinion covered by insurance?▾
Most plans allow one second opinion in the same specialty at no extra cost when surgery or long-term treatment is involved.
Do clinics provide English reports?▾
Yes. Request a typed English report at the end of the visit; most email it within 24 hours.
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