Dermatology in United Arab Emirates

Dermatology is a branch of medicine that focuses on health issues affecting the skin, nails, hair, and mucous membrane. It is a specialty with both surgical and medical aspects. A dermatologist can address cosmetic issues, which can help to rejuvenate the appearance of the skin, nails, and hair. Being a dermatologist requires a great depth of clinical knowledge, including the variety of internal health problems that may cause skin symptoms. Dermatologists can treat over 3,000 conditions. Some of the most common are acne, dermatitis and eczema, hair loss, nail problems, fungal infections, warts, vitiligo, and skin cancer.

Dermatology has a number of departments and specialties, including:

• Cosmetic Dermatology – dermatologists have been the leaders in cosmetic surgery. Many dermatologists are trained on the use of fillers, botulinum toxin, and laser surgery. Some dermatologists also perform blepharoplasty, liposuction, and facelifts. However, most dermatologists limit their cosmetic practice to minimally invasive procedures.
• Dermatopathology – this field is a joint specialty of dermatology and pathology. It focuses on the study of cutaneous diseases at molecular and microscopic levels. Dermatopathology can make a definitive diagnosis of various skin diseases, including melanoma.
• Trichology – this is the study of the hair and the scalp. This field of dermatology deals with diseases such as hair loss, scalp changes, hypertrichosis, and hair abnormalities.
• Immunodermatology – this filed specializes in immune-mediated skin diseases, such as bullous pemphigoid and lupus.
• Pediatric Dermatology – pediatric dermatologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases in children, which include newborns and infants.

What does the Procedure Involve?

A range of medical and cosmetic procedures are used to manage issues affecting the skin, nails, and hair. Many skin conditions can be treated by medications and noninvasive procedures, while others may require more invasive approaches. The following are several dermatologic procedures:

• Cosmetic injections – cosmetic injections can temporarily address scarring, wrinkles, and reduced facial fullness. A dermatologist can inject botulinum toxic (Botox) or fillers, such as fat and collagen. The results may last for a few months before you need another injection.
• Chemical peels – this procedure is used to treat some types of acne, as well as sun-damaged skin. It can also treat other cosmetic complaints, such as lines under the eyes and age spots. During chemical peels, a chemical solution is applied to the skin. This chemical solution causes a layer of skin to peel off, revealing regenerated skin beneath it that is typically a lot smoother.
• Dermabrasion – this type of procedure uses a high-speed rotating brush to remove the top layer of the skin, which can help reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles and tattoos, scar tissue, and potentially precancerous areas of the skin.
• Cryotherapy – cryotherapy involves freezing skin lesions, usually with liquid nitrogen, to destroy the affected cells. It can be a quick treatment for a number of benign skin issues, such as warts.
• Hair removal or restoration – various methods can be used to address hair loss, such as hair transplants. On the other hand, dermatologists can use lasers to remove unwanted hair from the body.
• Excision of lesions – skin lesions may be cut away to prevent a disease from spreading, to improve symptoms, for cosmetic reasons, or to prevent reoccurring infection. Excision of lesions may be done under a local or general anesthetic.
• Laser surgery –can be used to treat a number of cosmetic problems or skin issues, such as warts, tumors, moles, scars, birthmarks, wrinkles, and unwanted tattoos.
• Tumescent liposuction – this procedure is used by dermatologists to remove fat. Large volumes of local anesthetic are injected into fatty tissue, then it is sucked from the body. Note that tumescent liposuction is performed to contour the body, not to treat obesity.
• Vein procedures – people with superficial leg veins, called spider veins, may want them removed. Several procedures can be done to remove them, but sclerotherapy is the most popular treatment. It involves injecting a special solution or a foam into the vein. The special solution and foam irritate the lining, causing the vein to become less noticeable or, in some cases, disappear completely.
• Skin grafts and flaps – missing skin can be restored using skin from other areas on the body. Dermatologists can also repair skin loss by making a flap of skin from a nearby area of the body. The flap of skin is then used to cover the damaged patch.
• Biopsies – a skin biopsy is usually needed to diagnose or rule out certain conditions.
• Mohs surgery – this procedure is a treatment for skin cancer. It involves removing layers of skin in order to get rid of cancerous cells. The removed skin layers are then examined under a microscope. Then, successive layers are removed until there are no more cancerous cells found in the skin.
• PUVA – Psoralen combined with ultraviolet radiation (PUVA) is a procedure to treat several skin diseases, such as vitiligo, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Psoralen is a drug that can make the skin more sensitive to radiation treatment.

How Long Should I Stay in United Arab Emirates?

Depending on the type of procedure you have, you may be able to leave the hospital on the same day or stay for several days. For noninvasive treatments, such as chemical peels and cosmetic injections, you should be able to leave the hospital on the same day and fly home within a couple of days. For invasive procedures, particularly to treat serious medical conditions, such as cancer, you may need to stay in the hospital for several days, and stay in United Arab Emirates for at least 10 to 14 days. Your surgeon and/or medical travel team will advise you on this matter.

What's the Recovery Time?

Recovery time will vary depending on the type of procedure you have, the reason why you have the procedure in the first place, and your general health. Your dermatologist will usually give you a detailed recovery timeline for each procedure. In general, recovery time for nonsurgical procedures is typically short and you should be able to resume your normal routine within a few days. For surgical procedures, it may take several weeks until you are allowed to return to your full daily activities.

What About Aftercare?

Your dermatologist will give you a set of instructions to care for yourself during the recovery period. The instructions will be different for each type of procedures, but they may include a diet plan, light exercises to follow, how to care for your surgical wounds or affected area, activities you can or cannot do, signs of complications to be aware of, and medication to take. It is important that you follow your dermatologist’s instructions closely in order to avoid complications and to obtain the best possible results.

Some cosmetic procedures may not be permanent, such as dermal fillers and Botox, so you will need to have regular treatments in order to maintain the results. For skin cancer treatment, you may need to attend follow-up checkups to ensure that cancer has not come back.

What's the Success Rate?

Experienced and skilled dermatologists will be able to deliver a high success rate and satisfactory results. However, every type of procedure carries some risk, which may include infection, swelling, bleeding, adverse reaction to anesthesia, and unsatisfactory results.

Are there Alternatives to Dermatology?

If you have any problems with your skin, going to a dermatologist is the only way to treat it. However, if the skin problem is caused by an underlying condition, your doctor or dermatologist will recommend you to see relevant doctors to treat it.

What Should You Expect Before and After the Procedure?

Before seeing a dermatologist, you may have a problem with your skin. You may not like the wrinkles on your face, or you may have a lesion that needs to be removed. After receiving treatment from a dermatologist, your skin problems should be addressed. You may be able to achieve your dream appearance, any disease you had before may be treated.

Dermatology in and around United Arab Emirates

About the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates consists of seven emirates and they are Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras al-Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm al-Quwain. Abu Dhabi is the richest Emirates due to its oil fields. The UAE population is close to 10 million people.

Shopping is often considered to be the most popular tourist activity in the UAE, certainly for Dubai and Abu Dhabi. there is no denying that going to a mall or souk is a great way of soaking up the local culture, Low prices are often due to the low rate of 5% VAT. There are various shopping festivals throughout the year, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

The UAE has become a worldwide destination for medical tourists due to its wide range of state-of-the-art technology, affordable treatments, and highly specialized doctors. UAE has already witnessed a sizeable increase in medical tourists who are drawn to the country for treatments ranging from major surgeries to rehabilitation and cosmetic corrections.

The country has been focusing on increasing its healthcare infrastructure in terms of quality as well as quantity, in line with its global aspirations for medical tourism  According to Medical Tourism statistics, UAE ranks in 5th place, The country has close to 40 hospitals when compared to only having 7 in 1970. The Government has mandated all companies to provide all their employees with health insurance

In the United Arab Emirates medical education and research foundations such as Al Jalila Foundation, Centre of Arab Genomic Studies, Red Crescent Society of UAE, and Sahi School Health Programme aim to provide the best hospitals and create the best-skilled professionals in the country. With high-quality hospitals such as American Hospital Dubai, Lifeline Hospital, Emirates Hospital, Rashid Hospital, and others, Dubai caters to ailments such as Ophthalmology, Orthopaedic, Rheumatology, Dermatology, Cosmetic and Plastic surgery.

Here are three good reasons why the UAE is the best place to go for medical tourism.

• The UAE has over 200 JCI-Accredited Hospitals and Clinics.

• The treatment modules, both surgical and non-surgical are cutting edge and certified.

• UAE has the best post-operative care in this part of the world.

Popular parts of the UAE

This nation is a fascinating fusion of the contemporary world and deeply rooted Islamic customs, creating a unique cultural tapestry that is a delight to explore. There are numerous notable structures that dot the landscape, beckoning those with an adventurous spirit to embark on unforgettable tours and soak in the rich architectural heritage of the region. The presence of botanical gardens enhances the country's natural beauty, providing tranquil spots amidst the rush of city life where one can take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a picnic, or simply sit and watch the world go by.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, the country does not disappoint with its array of world-class amusement parks. These colorful wonderlands offer high-octane roller coasters, immersive virtual reality games, and lively entertainment shows which are bound to delight children and adults alike. In contrast, the country's stunning mosques stand as serene symbols of its deep religious underpinnings; their intricate design, ornate calligraphy, and contemplative atmosphere invite visitors to marvel at their grandeur and gain a deeper appreciation for the Islamic culture.

• Burj Khalifa- Is the tallest building in the world at over 800 meters, and is one of the most impressive sights in Dubai. Tourists can go up to the 124th and 125th floors of the Burj Khalifa. These floors have a circular observation deck and the panoramic view from here is a sight to behold and the view stretches from sea to desert.

• Burj Al Arab is best known for being the only 7-star hotel in Dubai and is located in the Burj Khalifa building 

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most beautiful attractions in Abu Dhabi and is an architectural masterpiece. The mosque is made of marble, and the walls and floors are embedded with colorful stones depicting flowers.

• Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi is a must-visit attraction. The Ferrari-themed park is home to the fastest roller coaster in the world, Formula Rossa, which accelerates to 240km/hr in as short as five seconds.

• The Palm Jumeirah is the biggest artificial island in the world and ensures that you visit one of its high-end restaurants and bars or stay in one of its 5-star hotels,

Weather and Climate in the UAE

The winter months of December through February offer a pleasantly warm climate in this region, with temperatures averaging between 24 °C and 26 °C. There are times, particularly in January, when cool northern air fronts make the days chilly and windy.

Scorching heat characterizes the summer season, from May to September, with daytime temperatures soaring between 38 °C and 42 °C. Warm winds from the Persian Gulf sweep in, carrying humidity from the sea. This makes April and October quite hot as well, with peaks around 33/36 °C. During the most intense summer days, temperatures can skyrocket to 47/48 °C along the country's splendid coastline.

The country experiences strong winds all through the year, but they become particularly forceful in the springtime. These winds occasionally lead to sand and dust storms, blanketing the landscape in a desert haze.

Getting around in UAE

The UAE boasts some of the world's most bustling airports with airplanes launching into the skies every five minutes. Out of all these, Terminal four of Dubai International Airport stands out as the busiest.

Travelling within the city is made simple with Dubai's extensive five metro line service. It serves as an excellent mode of transport to explore the city, offering easy access to a majority of landmarks and sought-after locations in Dubai.

Visitors also have the option of renting a luxury automobile for a personal driving experience around the city. However, before getting behind the wheel, ensure you possess an international driving license and the necessary insurance documentation as mandated by UAE's laws and guidelines. Considered the safest mode of transportation in the UAE, taxis are widely available. Tourists have two options: simply hailing one on the street or conveniently booking through a smartphone taxi app.

Tourist visas in the UAE

You can get a non-extendable visit visa or a tourist visa for 30 days or 90 days. Many job seekers use visitor visas to find work and convert their visitor visa to a work visa during their stay. Citizens of GCC countries and the European Union, USA, and the UK, Canada, Russia, China, Australia, and many other countries can get a visa on arrival. However, all passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Visa on Arrival:

The visa on arrival facility is a convenient option for eligible citizens, eliminating the need for pre-arranged visas. Upon arrival at a UAE airport, simply proceed to the immigration counter, where your passport will be stamped with a visa.

Visa Conversion for Employment:

If you successfully find employment during your stay on a visitor visa, you can initiate the process of converting your visa to a work visa. This process typically involves sponsorship from your employer and may require additional documentation.

Additional Information

• Local Currency: The currency of the UAE is the Dirhams, abbreviated as DH or Dh. Each dirham is further simplified into 100 fils. There are currency notes of various denominations ranging from Dh 5 to Dh 1000. The currency features Arabic on the front and English on the back. One US dollar will fetch you 3.67 dirhams and the rate does fluctuate.

• Money and Payment: All retail businesses and restaurants accept credit cards and cash. ATMs and currency exchanges are conveniently located across the country. There are bank counters in various malls that will readily exchange your currency. Tipping is only at ten percent of the Service or good charges and is optional.

• Local Language: UAE is very cosmopolitan and therefore the local population understands a lot of languages including English. There are also translator services available everywhere at cheap rates. Arabic is a widely spoken language throughout the UAE.

• Local culture and religion: Islam is the state religion. However, society is very diverse and it is one of those countries in the world where the migrant population is 80% plus which far exceeds the local nationals. Any person of any nationality, whether based overseas or a resident of Dubai, can purchase in Dubai's freehold property market in designated areas

• Public holidays: Ramadhan is the biggest festival and Shops and malls are beautifully decorated all through the thirty days of fasting. The other public holidays is the Islamic New Year, the Prophet’s Birthday, and the King’s Coronation day. People also celebrate other festivals like the Hindu festival of Diwali and the Chinese New Year in the spirit of humanity and brotherhood.