Facing a Medical Emergency in Dubai? What You Need to Know
May 8, 2025
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Facing a medical emergency, especially in a foreign city, can feel overwhelming. But here's some reassurance: Dubai has a highly developed and efficient emergency system ready to help when you need it most 
[32]
[2]
[1]. This city is prepared, with clear contact numbers, rapid ambulance services, world-class hospitals, and specific support for visitors [1][2][32]. Think of this guide as your clear, straightforward map to navigating medical emergencies in Dubai, whether you're a resident or just visiting. We'll cover who to call, what services to expect, and crucial information about costs and insurance [1][2][32].
Essential Emergency Numbers: Who to Call and When
First up, the direct line for an ambulance anywhere in the UAE, including Dubai, is 998 [32][2]
[33]
[34]
[6]
[7]
[37]
[22]. Calling 998 connects you straight to the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS) dispatch center [32][33]
[8]
[4]
[16]
[27]. DCAS is the government body managing all pre-hospital care in Dubai [4][16]. They even have a handy mobile app called "DCAS SOS" (available on Google Play and the App Store) [32][33][22]. This app can automatically pinpoint your location – a lifesaver if you're unsure where you are – and it's designed to be accessible for everyone, including people of determination [32][33].
Then there's 999, the main number for Dubai Police [32][33][34][6][7]. When should you call 999 for a medical issue? Primarily when you need both police and medical help, like in a road accident involving injuries [32][34]. The police operator will coordinate everything, dispatching an ambulance alongside police units if required [34]. Just remember, for non-urgent police matters, use 901 to keep the 999 line clear for genuine emergencies [6][7].
While 998 and 999 are the main ones for medical situations, it's good to be aware of others: 997 for the Fire Department (Civil Defence) and 996 for the Coast Guard [32][33][34][6][7][37][22]. And though hopefully not needed in a medical crisis, 991 handles electricity failures and 992 deals with water issues [32][33][6][37][22].
Dubai's Ambulance Service (DCAS): Rapid Response Explained
So, who exactly is behind the ambulance Dubai 998 number? It's the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS), the government agency responsible for all pre-hospital emergency medical care and patient transport in the emirate[4][16][27]. They operate a sophisticated command center and coordinate closely with entities like Dubai Police and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) [4]
[14][16].
DCAS boasts an impressive and diverse fleet. Reports suggest anywhere from 177 to over 330 vehicles, including standard ambulances, rugged 4x4s for tricky terrain, golf carts for specific zones, mass casualty buses, marine units, and even incredibly fast responder cars like the Lykan HyperSport 
[13][14][16]
[28]
[42]. This "HyperSport Responder" can hit 100 km/h in under 3 seconds, designed to slash response times for critical calls, often seen in tourist areas [13][42]. To ensure rapid arrival, DCAS operates from a growing network of ambulance points across Dubai, expanding from 68 stations in early 2022 to 133 points by late 2023 [14][16]
[20].
Their response times are remarkable. In 2023, DCAS achieved an average response time of just 7.5 minutes for over 235,000 emergency calls, a significant improvement aided by strategic station placement and AI-driven dispatch systems &size=28)
[12][20]
[40]
[21]
[31]. Some responses are even reported under three minutes [31]. They handled a massive volume of calls in 2023, providing care to hundreds of thousands and successfully resuscitating a growing number of cardiac arrest patients [12][20][40]. The teams consist of highly qualified EMTs and Paramedics, all licensed by DCAS and undergoing continuous training [4][16]
[30]. Rest assured, DCAS operates 24/7, 365 days a year, including major holidays and events [12][28].
Emergency Facilities: Where You'll Receive Care
Public hospitals, managed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), like Rashid Hospital and Dubai Hospital, have comprehensive Emergency Room (ER) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) facilities [1][2]. Rashid Hospital, in particular, is home to a renowned Emergency and Trauma Centre, recognized as a leading regional hub for critical injuries and accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI) [1]. Located centrally in Oud Metha, it's well-positioned to receive trauma patients quickly via DCAS [1]. These public facilities are staffed around the clock with emergency physicians and critical care specialists [2][1]
[41]. While emergency stabilization is provided to everyone, further treatment in public hospitals is typically free or subsidized mainly for UAE nationals; expats and tourists usually need insurance or must pay out-of-pocket [2][1]
[15]
[17].
On the private side, Dubai hosts numerous world-class hospitals with advanced ER and ICU departments, often exceeding international standards [1]
[38]
[25]. Major names like American Hospital Dubai, Mediclinic City Hospital, NMC Royal Hospital, King's College Hospital Dubai, and PRIME Hospital operate 24/7 emergency services [1][37][38][41][25]
[43]
[44]. These facilities feature cutting-edge technology, specialized staff, comprehensive diagnostics, and often shorter waiting times [1][38][41][25]. For instance, NMC Royal Hospital highlights its extensive ER/ICU bed capacity and dedicated ambulance services, while PRIME Hospital offers 24/7 emergency coverage for a wide array of conditions, supported by its own ambulance fleet [38][25]
[29][41]. Private hospitals are well-versed in catering to expats and tourists and accept a broad range of international insurance plans, though costs can be significant [1].
Specialized Emergency Transport & VIP Services
Air ambulances come into play for critical cases, especially those in remote areas or requiring long-distance transport [2]
[5]
[23]. DCAS coordinates these responses, often involving the Dubai Police Air Wing, particularly if the call came through 998 or 999 [2][28]. If the situation warrants it based on location and patient condition, an air response might be initiated [2]. Additionally, several private companies like RPM, IAS Medical, Medical Air Service, Qwiklif, and Zulekha Hospital provide private air ambulance and medevac services, using helicopters (HEMS) and fixed-wing aircraft equipped for intensive care [5]
[35][23]
[11]
[36]. They handle everything from bed-to-bed transfers to international repatriation, employing specialized medical crews [5][35][11][23]. Be aware, however, that private air transport is costly; repatriation to the UK, for example, can start around £38,400 [35].
For those seeking enhanced privacy, comfort, and personalized attention during a medical event, VIP emergency services are also available 
[9]
[10]
[19]
[24]
[26]. Providers such as VIP Ambulance Services (VAS), VIP Doctor 247, EMAHS Healthcare, and HumanCare Worldwide offer discreet services like private Mobile Intensive Care Ambulances (MICA), doctor-on-call visits to hotels or homes, and seamless coordination of care [9][10][19][24][26]. VAS, for instance, claims to be Dubai's largest private ambulance provider with a substantial fleet and staff [9]. These services often bypass standard procedures and queues, ensuring maximum discretion and comfort, sometimes utilizing private terminals for air travel [5][19][26].
Essential Guide for Tourists Facing Emergencies
If you're visiting Dubai and face a medical emergency, don't panic. The system is designed to help tourists too [2][1][15]. Use the standard emergency numbers: 998 for an ambulance or 999 if police involvement is also needed [32][2][37][22]. You can go to any hospital emergency room – public or private; they are equipped to handle visitors [32][2][1].
Here’s the really crucial part for tourists: costs and payment. Initial emergency treatment to stabilize your condition is provided free of charge at all hospitals [32][2][1]
[18]. However, any treatment beyond that initial stabilization must be paid for [32][2][1]. This makes having comprehensive travel insurance with robust medical coverage absolutely essential before you travel to Dubai 
[3][15][17]. Medical costs, especially in private facilities popular with tourists, can be very high [3][1][15][17]. Even if you have insurance, be prepared that some hospitals might ask for upfront payment, requiring you to claim reimbursement later, though many private hospitals regularly work with international insurers [1][17].
Many private hospitals are experienced in dealing with international patients, with English-speaking staff readily available [1]. For less severe issues, consider walk-in clinics or 'Doctor on Call' services that bring a doctor to your hotel room, offering convenience and potentially overcoming language barriers [18][26]. Dubai International Airport (DXB) also has 24/7 medical facilities available within its terminals should an issue arise during travel 
[39].
Quick Reference: What to Do in a Medical Emergency
•
Try to stay calm.
•
Call 998 for an ambulance directly.
•
Call 999 if police assistance is also required (e.g., accident).
•
Have your passport/ID and insurance details handy if you can.
•
Listen carefully and follow the instructions given by the emergency dispatcher.
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