Health

The UAE has an excellent healthcare system — hospitals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are among the best in the world. But: Medical treatment is expensive.

Before the Trip

• Travel health insurance: Absolutely necessary! A hospital stay can quickly cost 5,000–50,000 EUR. The insurance should cover repatriation.
• Vaccinations: No mandatory vaccinations for entry from Germany. Recommended: Hepatitis A + B, refresh Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio. For desert adventures optional: Rabies.
• Medications: Caution! Many medications freely available in Germany are controlled substances in the UAE — including codeine (in cough syrups), certain sleeping pills, and ADHD medications. Bring a medical certificate (in English) and the original prescription.

On Site

• Heat: The greatest health hazard. Drink at least 3–4 liters of water per day, wear sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat, and sunglasses. Heatstroke symptoms (headache, dizziness, nausea): Immediately move to shade, drink water, cool down.
• Sunburn: UV radiation is extreme — even on cloudy days. Sunbathing for 30 minutes without protection at the beach can lead to second-degree burns.
• Air conditioning: The constant change between 45°C outside and 18°C inside strains the circulation and can cause colds. A light sweater for indoors is sensible.
• Tap water: Technically drinkable (desalinated seawater), but the taste takes getting used to. Most people drink bottled water (1.5L from 2 AED/0.50 EUR in the supermarket).

Hospitals & Pharmacies

Top hospitals: Mediclinic City Hospital (Dubai), Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, American Hospital Dubai. Pharmacies are on every corner — many are open 24 hours (e.g., BinSina, Aster, Life).