Sexual and reproductive health is one of the most critical — and neglected — components of health. As an Emirati national, a long term expat or a new resident in the UAE, it’s important that you know your reproductive health options, your rights and where you can get trusted care, so that you can make informed and confident decisions about your body and your future.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines sexual and reproductive health as a state of complete physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in sexual and reproductive function and abilities. Access to quality reproductive health services has increased at a rapid pace in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a fast-growing multicultural country of more than ten million people, over the last decade, with large investments in the health sector and the UAE Vision 2031 and National Policy for the Promotion of Women’s Health announced in 2024.
This guide covers all the information a resident of the UAE needs to know about sexual and reproductive health, from who can provide services to who they can trust to provide them, to the laws and regulations which impact on providing reproductive services in the UAE.
Why Reproductive Health Matters in the UAE
The UAE boasts a very diverse population, with around 90% of its residents being expatriates from more than 200 nationalities, dealing with health care in a country with a different legal and cultural landscape. This is particularly relevant to this context about sexual and reproductive health in the UAE.
Key Facts About Reproductive Health in the UAE
The UAE government launched the National Policy for the Promotion of Women’s Health in 2024, a multi-sectoral strategy which guarantees all women, nationals as well as expats, access to good quality preventive, curative and rehabilitative health services at all stages of life.
The UAE is one of the highest CS rate countries in the region. According to a study by Zayed University, the percentage of live births in Abu Dhabi that were C-section births was 30.2%.
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs reports that 59.5 per cent of UAE’s women use modern contraceptive methods to meet their birth control needs.
HPV vaccine is part of the national immunization programme in UAE, which is a significant progress towards combating cervical cancer as a public health threat.
Fertility treatments such as ICSI and IVF are offered throughout the UAE and are regulated by Federal Law No. (7) of 2019 on Medically Assisted Reproduction (MAR) which is applicable to both free zones and mainland centres.
Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer in women in the UAE, representing 5% of cancers in women – screening is important to ensure regular surveillance.
Important for Expats
Employers are required to provide private health insurance for the employees in UAE as per the law. Your reproductive health benefits will vary based on your policy, and may include prenatal services, contraception, and gynaecological screenings. Read through your policy thoroughly and consult your HR department or insurance provider if you’re not sure what the policy covers.
What SH includes:
Sexual and reproductive health in UAE is a wide spectrum of services and a wide spectrum of life stages. So, what is comprehensive reproductive care like in this country from adolescence to pregnancy, menopause and beyond.
1. Contraception and Family Planning in the UAE
UAE reproductive health and family planning are provided by general practitioners (GPs), hospital OB-GYN departments and health centres, not by dedicated family planning clinics like other countries. There are also various products of contraceptive available in Pharmacies throughout the UAE
There are different contraceptive options available in UAE:
Oral contraceptive pills — available at pharmacies; in recent years, these were prescription only in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Marital status can be verified at the pharmacy with an Emirates ID.
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): These are fitted into the uterus by most gynecology clinics, and cost more than AED 1,000. Many health insurance also cover IUDs for married women.
Hormonal implants, hormonal injections and patches from a licensed clinic/hospital.
Condoms — can be purchased in any pharmacy without a prescription and no ID needed.
Permanent contraception (tubal ligation and vasectomy) — legal in UAE and will usually cost AED 5,000 or so. Access can be different for each provider, and women have been asked in the past to provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their husband for tubal ligation.
Please Note
In the UAE there are certain reproductive health services that can only be provided to married couples. This covers some contraceptive services, fertility treatment and maternity services. Certain services might be inaccessible for unmarried pregnant women. When in a sensitive situation, consult a trusted, confidential health care professional for advice.
2. Pregnancy, Prenatal and Maternity Care
The UAE boasts superb maternity care facilities, which is part of women’s sexual and reproductive health. Pregnancy check-ups, hospitalisation and vaginal and Caesarean deliveries are all usually included in most private health insurance policies. The UAE offers the following crucial aspects of prenatal care:
Routine prenatal tests: ultrasounds, genetic testing, blood/urine tests
Nutrient advice and the use of folic acid supplementation.
General issues related to pregnancy – high risk pregnancy management (gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, multiple pregnancies)
Labour, delivery and post natal care
The screening for postpartum depression is available at most major hospitals, and it is becoming more popular.
Secondary care centres for premature or high-risk newborns.
To note is that the UAE has only married couples who can avail fertility treatment including IVF, as per the Federal Law No. (7) of 2019. The price of IVF treatment is AED 15,000 upwards and the price of intrauterine insemination (IUI) may begin at about AED 3,000. Not all insurance policies cover fertility treatments.
3. STI Testing and Sexual Health
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a normal and manageable component to sexual health — but they must be addressed in a timely manner. However, in the UAE, the testing and treatment for STIs can be done at the specialist sexual health clinics, general hospitals, and private medical centres, all of which are confidential.
These are some of the common STIs that are tested for and treated in Dubai:
• Chlamydia and Gonorrhea — bacterial infections, can be treated with antibiotics
• Syphilis — bacterial; increased incidence and the need for screening, particularly in pregnancy.
• HIV — testing, counseling and antiretroviral management are available
• HIV — vaccine not available, but antiviral treatment is available and can be started if exposed before the infection occurs.• Hepatitis A and E — vaccine available, antiviral unavailable.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) — the HPV vaccine is a vaccine that is part of the UAE national immunization program.
You must be aware that some STI pathogens, such as HIV, are legally required to be reported in the UAE and some STI diagnoses may result in legal repercussions around residency. If you’re worried about privacy, consult with a healthcare provider directly before testing. A good private hospital will provide confidentiality and care.
4. Menstrual and Hormonal Health of Women
There is growing awareness of menstrual health as a vital sign in reproductive health information in the UAE. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, uterine fibroids and thyroid disorders are very common and are well diagnosed and well treated in UAE hospitals. If you are having severe cramps, irregular bleeding or substantial hormonal changes, don’t get used to the pain; consult a gynaecologist.
These services for menstrual and hormonal health include diagnostic ultrasound, blood tests of hormones, laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis, minimally invasive options for fibroids, and personalised hormone therapy.
5. Menopause Management
Due to UAE citizens enjoying longer and healthier lives, management of menopause has become a part of the overall reproductive health care. Women who are perimenopausal or menopausal can access:
HRT (hormone replacement therapy) is available at specialist women’s health clinics.
The procedure is called bone density monitoring to check for osteoporosis risk.
• Cardiovascular health assessment
Both psychological support and mental wellness counseling are provided.
6. Cancer Screening
Preventive reproductive health care in UAE involves cancer screening programmes, which are some of the best in the region:
Cervical cancer (Pap smear): Recommended starting age is 21. This is a historic move towards cervical cancer elimination in the UAE, as HPV vaccination is now part of the national immunization programme.
Breast cancer (mammogram): Most health insurance policies cover breast cancer. There has been several government initiatives for mobile breast screening, such as the Pink Caravan available in both Dubai and Sharjah.
Ovarian cancer screening: This can be done at most hospital gynaecology departments, and usually starts with a blood test.
Prostate cancer screening: Free to Emirati men, covered by most insurance policies to non-nationals. Indicated for men aged 50 years of age and older.
UAE Sexual and Reproductive Health Services
The UAE has a sound and world-class health care system. Here is an easy guide to some of the top companies providing full reproductive health services in the Emirates.
Top Hospitals and Clinics for Reproductive Health in Dubai
Emirates Hospitals Group — Dubai
Emirates Hospitals Group has a Women’s Sexual Health and Infection Clinic in Dubai and STD and Sexual Health Clinic in Dubai. Services offered are confidential STI testing, treatment, HPV and hepatitis B vaccination, and gynaecological services and HIV antiretroviral therapy. Website: emirateshospitals.ae
The Asians are fully aware of the traditions of their home country
Founded by consultants from the United Kingdom, King’s College Hospital is one of the most well-respected names in women’s health in Dubai with UK-based expertise and proven clinical practice standards that are in line with those found at King’s College Hospital London. Specialist services encompass gynaecology, obstetrics, fertility support, cervical screening and minimally invasive surgery. Website: kingscollegehospitaldubai.com
Fakeeh University Hospital — Dubai Silicon Oasis
The Obstetrics and Gynaecology department at Fakeeh University Hospital provides complete range of care for gynaecological health of women from adolescent gynaecology to menopause management. These conditions are treated include PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, infertility, and cervical/ovarian cancer screening. Website: fuh.care
Medcare Women and Children Hospital — Dubai
Medcare has an integrated women’s health programme that is available for the treatment of adolescent, pregnancy, fertility (the Bourn Hall IVF clinics) gynaecological conditions, menopause and pelvic rehabilitation. Sarsaparilla available in Dubai and Sharjah. Website: medcare.ae
Medical Center – Al Garhoud Hospital, Dubai
Obstetrics and Gynaecology treatment at the department of OB-GYN, HMS Al Garhoud Hospital is available around the clock with specialists having over 30 years of clinical experience. Services include PCOS management, infertility workups and minimally invasive procedures. Website: gph.ae
Aster Hospital, Dubai and Sharjah
The gynaecology section at Aster Hospital provides comprehensive services such as colposcopy, insertion of an Intrauterine Device (IUD), endometrial biopsy, insertion of the Nexplanon implant, reproductive endocrinology, laparoscopic surgery, family planning counselling, etc. Website: asterhospitals.ae
Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital — Dubai Healthcare City
Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital is considered one of the best maternity hospitals in the UAE that offers a wide range of services related to OB-GYN care, including pre-conception, during pregnancy, and after delivery, with a particular emphasis on educating patients and developing customized treatment plans. Website: drsulaimanalhabib.ae
We offer a complete range of treatments in Zulekha Hospital, Dubai and Sharjah
In the Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialty at Zulekha Hospital, the team of experienced consultants at Dubai and Sharjah hospitals specialize in high-risk obstetric management, advanced laparoscopic surgery, reproductive endocrinology, and assisted reproduction. Website: zulekhahospitals.com
The Best Hospitals and Clinics for Reproductive Health in Abu Dhabi
Certainly, NMC Healthcare
Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, RAK & Al Ain.
One of the UAE’s biggest and longest serving healthcare networks, NMC Healthcare offers OB-GYN services in six emirates. They have a reproductive health unit that includes a fertility clinic, prenatal care, menstrual problems, menopause care, pelvic surgery and laparoscopic surgery all in one location. Website: nmc.ae
Reem Hospital, Abu Dhabi
Reem Hospital in Abu Dhabi provides OB-GYN services by internationally board-certified doctors, who have over 60 years of combined clinical experience. Antenatal care, management of high risk pregnancies, diagnosis and management of ectopic pregnancy, screening for fetal abnormalities, and aesthetic gynaecology are some of the services provided. Website: reemhospital.com
ART Fertility Clinics — Abu Dhabi
ART Fertility Clinics specializes in reproductive health and infertility and provides its patients with IVF, ICSI, STD testing related to male infertility and comprehensive fertility counseling. At Marina Village, Abu Dhabi. Website: artfertilityclinics.com
Mediclinic Middle East (Abu Dhabi, Dubai & Al Ain)
Mediclinic offers a complete women’s health service package, called the Mediclinic Woman programme, which includes the fields of gynaecology, prenatal care, fertility, pelvic floor rehabilitation, postnatal recovery and cancer screening, with the aid of Bourn Hall IVF partnerships. There are health packages for women in various stages of life. Website: mediclinic.ae
STI Testing Services Across the UAE
Better2Know Middle East has a network of private clinics with accredited laboratory testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B and C as well as other STI tests for all UAE emirates including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and more. Website: middle-east.better2know.com
Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights in the UAE
Knowing your rights as a patient and as a UAE resident is a key aspect of reproductive health care in the UAE. The nation has a well-defined and maturing legal framework that regulates reproductive care.
Key Legal and Policy Framework
All fertility and assisted reproduction services in the UAE (including free zones) are regulated by UAE Federal Law No. (7) of 2019 on Medically Assisted Reproduction. It only allows the use of fertility treatment for married couples and licensed centres must keep the patient’s confidences.
Increased maternal and reproductive health, prevention of chronic diseases in women, mental health and gender-related health disparities are among the commitments made by the UAE government in the National Policy for the Promotion of Women’s Health (2024).
The legal framework to perform abortions in UAE is provided in Cabinet Resolution No. (44) of 2024. The abortion is legal in a specified medical condition according to the law. Get legal counsel and/or medical counsel that is pertinent to your case from a licensed medical practitioner.
Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Department of Health Abu Dhabi (DOH/HAAD) have set local standards for centres of reproductive medicine, which include local standards for IVF clinics and assisted reproduction facilities (Ministerial Decision 115 and 117 of 2024).
UAE federal law ensures patient confidentiality
Your personal health information must be kept private by healthcare providers. But there are some conditions that have to be reported to health authorities, such as some communicable diseases.
Your rights as patient in the UAE
Access to quality reproductive health services, without discrimination based on nationality; rights protected by law.
Right to informed consent — this includes informed consent for any medical procedure such as contraceptive procedures, and infertility treatments.
the right to be able to select your health care provider, get another opinion, request a referral to a specialist
Your right to view your medical information when asked
Regulatory Authority Contacts
Dubai: Dubai Health Authority (DHA) — dha.gov.ae | Abu Dhabi: Department of Health (DOH) — doh.gov.ae | Federal: Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) — mohap.gov.ae. These authorities are responsible for complaints of the standard of care received.
Sexual and Reproductive Health Education in UAE
The UAE context is a conservative culture for sexual and reproductive health education. Schools do not have the same level of formal sex education as many other countries in the West. There is greater awareness, though, as evidenced by government initiatives, hospital-organized health fairs and digital health apps and sites.
Information on where to find reliable information about reproductive health
The UAE federal health authority publishes materials to raise awareness and provides guidance on health issues (MOHAP). Website: mohap.gov.ae
Dubai Health Authority (DHA): Provides patient education materials and health awareness campaigns such as breast cancer screening drives. Website: dha.gov.ae
WHO Middle East: Provides the evidence-based and global guidelines for reproductive health relevant to the residents of UAE. Website: emro.who.int
In UAE, leading hospitals such as NMC, Mediclinic and King’s College Hospital Dubai provide patient education sessions, antenatal classes and online health portals in their hospitals.
Expatica UAE Health Guide: Practical guide to expatriates who are looking to navigate UAE health care systems, covering reproductive health. Website: expatica.com/ae/healthcare
Your initial point of contact should be a direct consultation with an accredited UAE hospital or clinic with a licensed OB-GYN or GP, if you’re looking for reproductive health advice such as on contraception, fertility, pregnancy complications or sexual health concerns. At trusted providers, these conversations are confidential and non-judgemental.
Sexual Health and Wellness: A Holistic Guide for UAE Residents
Sexual health and reproductive wellness is not limited to clinic visits. The true health comes from paying attention to your physical, emotional and relational health — all of which can be addressed with services in the UAE today.
Physical Wellness
Schedule your annual well-woman exam — even if you feel well. In the early stages, gynaecological problems like ovarian cysts, cervical changes and Sexually Transmitted Infections may not present any symptoms. Early diagnosis, through routine preventive reproductive health care, results in better health outcomes, less invasive treatment and peace of mind.
Preventive care for men: STI testing when sexually active, prostate testing after age 45 or 50 (depending on risk factors), and fertility health discussion with urologist or andrologist.
Mental and Emotional Health
Emotions are very close to the bone when it comes to reproductive health experiences, whether it’s a pregnancy loss, a fertility issue, hormonal fluctuations or sexual health concerns. The provision of mental health support is essential to reproductive health care services. In the UAE, you can find licensed therapists, clinical psychologists and mental health teams in hospital to offer you:
Assistance with fertility counseling and grief support after miscarriage or pregnancy loss
Check for and treat postpartum depression
Anxiety and depression management due to hormonal or reproductive health diagnosis
Couples counseling for decisions on family planning
It is important to mention that the UAE’s Federal Law No. (10) of 2022 on Mental Health gives a legal context to mental health services in the UAE, improving patients’ rights and access to mental health care.
Insurance and Affordability
In the UAE, the primary way of accessing reproductive health services is through health insurance.If you are employed, your employer must give you insurance. Your coverage is usually included in your sponsor’s policy, as a dependent spouse or a family member. Nationals are covered through government health programmes.
Some of the common services that are usually provided by most of the insurance companies in the UAE include:
Well-woman examinations/consultations occur once a year
• Delivery (including vaginal and cesarean)
Screenings for breast and cervical cancer.Breast cancer screening and cervical cancer screening.
• STI testing and treatment
Contraception is allowed, except in the case of marriage (depends on policy)
Fertility and IVF treatments may not be covered or may only be partially covered. Check your coverage before starting treatment; and be aware of any potential costs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: UAE is a conservative society with strict laws on reproductive health care for unmarried women?
A: Yes, unmarried women are able to get most general health care services such as STI testing, gynaecological exams and cancer screening. Under UAE law and social norms, however, there are services that are more easily available to married women such as contraceptive prescriptions and maternity services. Some medicines require an Emirates ID at the pharmacy. Typically, in a sensitive situation private hospitals provide more discreet and non-judgemental care.
A: IVF is available in the UAE and anyone can have it?
Yes, IVF and other ART are readily available in the UAE from licensed ART centers in the UAE. In accordance with Federal Law (7) of 2019, however, only married couples can use IVF legally. It must be the wife’s eggs and husband’s sperm; surrogacy and donor gametes are not allowed. The price of IVF usually begins at AED 15,000 per attempt. Not all insurance policies cover fertility treatment.
What is the level of confidentiality of reproductive health services in UAE?
B: UAE federal law mandates healthcare professionals to protect patient confidentiality in the UAE. Your health information will NOT be shared without your permission. But there are exceptions: some communicable diseases (such as HIV) must be reported to health authorities and residential status may be impacted by a positive HIV test result. If you have any special concerns, consult your trusted physician before testing.
A: You can get a Pap smear or cervical screening in the UAE at your GP’s office, at an outpatient clinic, or at a department in a hospital?
Virtually all gynaecology departments and women’s health clinics in the UAE offer pap smears and cervical cancer screening (HPV co-testing). Some of the top hospitals that offer these services include King’s College Hospital Dubai, the NMC Healthcare, Mediclinic, Reem Hospital Abu Dhabi, and the Fakhen University Hospital. Routine cervical screening is usually covered by most insurance policies. Usually, pap tests are ordered from age 21 or when a woman first sees a gynaecologist.
A: Yes, birth control is available in UAE. Can I get a prescription?
A: Condoms are available without prescription at all pharmacies. Oral contraceptive pills have been available in the UAE for many years and were previously sold over the counter, but this is no longer the case in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. An Emirates ID may be requested at the pharmacy. Other contraceptive options such as IUDs, implants and injections are only available with a consultation with a licensed gynaecologist. Married women may be provided contraceptives in some insurance policies.
If you think you may have an STI, what should you do?
A: Not waiting for symptoms (most STIs do not have symptoms). Talk and test with a private hospital or dedicated sexual health clinic. STI testing is available at Emirates Hospitals Group, Better2Know Middle East and most other hospital OB-GYN departments. The majority of bacterial STIs can be cured with antibiotics. Viral STIs can be treated with antiviral medications. Early detection and treatment is important in preventing complications.
A: Yes, UAE health insurance will cover maternity care?
A: Most UAE employer-provided health insurance policies cover prenatal, hospital, delivery (vaginal and C-section) and newborn care provided that it is part of the UAE’s national health care program. Coverage is dependent on the type of policy. Some policies impose waiting periods (usually 12 months of continuous coverage) before benefits are paid for maternity. Do not plan a pregnancy without checking your policy or consulting with your HR department.
Q: In the UAE, is there mental health assistance for reproductive health issues?
A: Yes. Other UAE hospitals such as Major NMC, Mediclinic, Aster and King’s College Hospital Dubai provide mental health services in addition to reproductive services. Well-rounded maternity programmes in the UAE now include screening for postpartum depression, fertility counselling and support for grief following a pregnancy loss. The UAE’s Federal Law No. The UAE has bolstered access to mental health through the law with the enactment of (10) of 2022 on Mental Health.
Conclusion
Sexual and reproductive health is a journey across life – and UAE boasts some of the best sexual and reproductive health facilities in the UAE to support you throughout your journey. Whether you’re receiving world-class healthcare from the UAE’s top hospital networks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, or the federal law that ensures your reproductive rights are upheld, you can count on top-notch care.
No matter if you’re seeking a reputable gynaecologist, a family planning consultation, confidential STI testing or advice on understanding your body — a first step and booking an appointment is the most important thing you can do. Sexual and Reproductive Health cannot be left to self. With the right information and providers, you can confidently take control of your health.
If you enjoyed this guide, please pass it on to someone who needs it. Access to good quality reproductive health information that is accurate, caring and relevant to local contexts has an impact on people’s lives all over the UAE. Do you need more info, visit our website or contact Dr. Marry.
Note: The information and education provided in this article is strictly for general use and for informational purposes only. Does not provide medical or legal support and cannot be a substitute for professional advice from a qualified licensed UAE medical or legal practitioner. Laws and healthcare practices are liable to change at any moment; please always check the current laws and regulations with the relevant UAE authority.