The United Arab Emirates is rapidly developing into one of the most attractive labour markets for medical professionals in the world. Dubai and Abu Dhabi in particular are investing heavily in the healthcare sector, building new clinics and attracting qualified doctors with tax-free income, an international environment and an excellent quality of life. But which specialities are particularly in demand? And what salary can doctors in the UAE expect? In this article, DoctoFlow provides an in-depth overview of the top specialisations, career opportunities and salary ranges.
1. plastic & aesthetic surgery
Why asked: Dubai is a global centre for medical tourism - especially in the field of cosmetic surgery. The demand for facelifts, breast surgery, body contouring and minimally invasive procedures is enormous.
Salary range:
Beginner with licence: approx. 40,000 - 60,000 AED / month
Experienced specialists with their own customer base: up to AED 150,000 / month or more
Top locations: Dubai Healthcare City, Jumeirah, Al Wasl
2. dermatology & aesthetic medicine
Why asked: Skin care, laser treatments, anti-ageing and pigment therapy are very popular, especially with patients from the GCC region. Combinations of dermatology and cosmetics generate particularly high sales.
Salary range:
Specialists: approx. 35,000 - 55,000 AED / month
Specialising in aesthetic procedures: up to 90,000 AED / month
Top locations: Dubai Marina, DIFC, Downtown Dubai
3. dentistry & orthodontics
Why asked: Aesthetic dentistry is booming. Veneers, Invisalign and smile makeovers are in huge demand. Many patients are travelling from abroad - high proportion of private patients.
Salary range:
General dentists: approx. 25,000 - 45,000 AED / month
Orthodontists / implantologists: up to 70,000 AED / month
Note: Many dentists work on commission - revenue sharing is common.
4. gynaecology & obstetrics
Why asked: A high proportion of female expats prefer specialised gynaecologists. There is strong demand for preventive care, pregnancy support and minimally invasive gynaecological procedures.
Salary range:
Medical specialists (with DHA/DOH licence): approx. 30,000 - 55,000 AED / month
Top locations: Private clinics & mother and child centres in Dubai & Abu Dhabi
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5. general medicine & family doctors
Why asked: International families value regular check-ups, long-term care and trustworthy family doctors. Particularly popular: German-speaking doctors.
Salary range:
Employed general practitioners: 20,000 - 35,000 AED / month
With own practice: significantly more possible
Tip: Good entry-level opportunity for European doctors with a broad spectrum
6. paediatrics (paediatrics)
Why asked: Many young families with children are moving to Dubai. The demand for specialised, empathetic paediatricians is growing steadily.
Salary range:
Specialists in paediatrics: approx. 25,000 - 40,000 AED / month
Language skills and empathy are crucial here.
7. orthopaedics & sports medicine
Why asked: Expats, business people and sports enthusiasts are looking for modern treatments for back, joints, intervertebral discs & performance therapy.
Salary range:
Orthopaedists / sports physicians: approx. 35,000 - 65,000 AED / month
With its own facility or operational specialisation: up to AED 100,000
8. internal medicine / cardiology
Why asked: Preventive medicine, high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease are increasing significantly in the Gulf region. Good internists with specialisations are in high demand.
Salary range:
Internists: 30,000 - 45,000 AED / month
Cardiologists: 45,000 - 70,000 AED / month
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9. radiology & imaging techniques
Why asked: High-tech clinics in the UAE are investing heavily in modern radiology. Teleradiology & AI-supported diagnostics are gaining in importance.
Salary range:
Radiologists: 40,000 - 60,000 AED / month
Top skills: CT/MRT, mammography, interventional radiology
10. psychiatry & psychotherapy
Why asked: Mental health is on the rise in the UAE. International professionals are looking for discreet, culturally sensitive treatments.
Salary range:
Psychiatrist: 30,000 - 50,000 AED / month
Psychotherapists (with licence): 20,000 - 35,000 AED / month
Especially in demand: German-speaking and multilingual therapists
Great opportunities - but with professional preparation
The UAE offers attractive prospects for medical specialists of all specialisations - both financially and professionally. However, without official licensing (DHA, MOH or DOH), DataFlow verification and cultural preparation, getting started is not easy.
DoctoFlow accompanies you on your way: from the initial consultation to licensing and successful integration into the Emirati healthcare market.
