Residents in the UAE spend an average of Dh7,600 a year on healthcare, with a majority believing that the healthcare system has improved in the past decade and will continue to do so in the future. A new study released by Brand Finance revealed that 81 per cent of residents are satisfied with the UAE’s healthcare system, with 8 out of 10 reporting a ‘very caring experience’. This positive perception is supported by 84 per cent of residents who believe that the quality of healthcare has improved over the years and expect further advancements in the future.
Investments in the UAE’s healthcare system have yielded impressive results, according to Richard Haigh, the managing director of Brand Finance. Despite the positive feedback, challenges remain as 64 per cent of residents still perceive healthcare in the UAE as expensive. The study surveyed 2,000 residents, with 21 per cent being citizens and 79 per cent expatriates. Only 6 per cent of expatriates believe their home country’s healthcare system is better than that of the UAE.
The research also found that 78 per cent of UAE residents find it easy to live a healthy lifestyle through exercise and healthy eating, suggesting that facilities like gyms, parks, and healthy food options are readily available. The study further explored residents’ perceptions of healthcare providers, with Seha emerging as the top-rated brand both nationally and in Abu Dhabi. Sheikh Khalifa (Seha) was recognized as the most highly regarded individual hospital across the nation, while Aster was the highest-rated brand in Dubai.
In terms of health insurance, the National Health Insurance Company (Daman) is the best-perceived brand nationally, leading in metrics such as being the most admired, trusted, recommended, and best rated for comfort. These findings reflect the positive public perception of healthcare in the UAE and the high level of satisfaction among residents with the quality of services provided. With ongoing investments and advancements in the healthcare sector, the future looks promising for healthcare in the UAE.
