Having a Baby in Dubai: What You Must Know

Planning a baby in Dubai feels exciting and a bit overwhelming. The city offers world‑class medical facilities, but the rules, costs, and cultural nuances can catch newcomers off guard. Below you’ll find the basics you need to get your pregnancy off to a good start, whether you’re a resident, expat, or just visiting for a short stay.

Choosing the Right Hospital

Dubai’s hospitals range from large public centers to boutique private clinics. The most popular choices for maternity are American Hospital Dubai, Mediclinic City Hospital, and Saudi German Hospital. All three have English‑speaking staff, state‑of‑the‑art NICUs, and private rooms if you prefer extra comfort.

When picking a hospital, ask about:

• Prenatal care packages – many include scans, blood tests, and a birth plan coordinator.
• Delivery options – natural birth, epidural, or C‑section. Some centers have midwife‑led births for a more relaxed vibe.
• Insurance coverage – check if your policy covers the whole stay or only the delivery. UAE health insurance often caps maternity benefits, so confirm the exact amount.
• Visiting hours – some hospitals restrict visitors after a certain time, which can affect family support.

Schedule a tour before your due date if you can. Seeing the rooms and meeting the staff helps you feel confident on the big day.

Legal & Financial Essentials

Having a baby in Dubai means navigating a few legal steps. First, make sure your visa status is up to date. If you’re on a work visa, your employer usually sponsors your dependents, but you’ll need to add the newborn within 30 days to keep the family visa active.

Second, register the birth at the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). The hospital usually handles the paperwork, but you’ll still need your passport, visa, and marriage certificate. Expect a small fee for the birth certificate; it’s required for school enrollment later.

Third, check the costs. A standard vaginal delivery in a private hospital can run from AED 15,000 to AED 30,000, while a C‑section often tops AED 35,000. Public hospitals are cheaper but may have longer wait times for non‑emergency procedures. If you have health insurance, verify the deductible and any out‑of‑pocket limits before you book.

Don’t forget parental leave. UAE labour law grants 45 days paid leave for mothers and 5 days for fathers, provided you’ve completed at least a year of service. Some companies offer extra days, so ask HR about the exact policy.

Finally, think about post‑birth care. Most hospitals provide a 24‑hour stay for the mother and newborn, but you might need to arrange a follow‑up pediatrician. Many expats choose clinics like Dubai Pediatric Care or Kids’ First for routine check‑ups. Early vaccination schedules follow the UAE Ministry of Health guidelines, so keep the immunisation card handy.

Having a baby in Dubai can be smooth if you plan ahead. Pick a reputable hospital, sort out insurance and visa paperwork early, and know the costs before you go into labour. With the right prep, you’ll enjoy a safe delivery and a happy start for your new family member in this vibrant city.