July 21, 2026
Planning to Open a One-Day Surgery Center in the UAE? Here’s What You Need to Know
The UAE healthcare sector is witnessing steady growth in Day Surgery Centers (One-Day Surgery Centers). These facilities are licensed under different classifications—Class A, Class B, Class C(M), and Class C—depending on the complexity of procedures performed and the applicable health authority’s requirements.
These facilities perform surgical and medical procedures that do not require patients to stay overnight, providing a cost-effective alternative to hospitals while maintaining high standards of patient safety and regulatory compliance.
If you’re planning to establish a One-Day Surgery Center in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or another emirate, understanding the licensing process from the beginning can save both time and money.
What Is a One-Day Surgery Center?
A One-Day Surgery Center is a licensed healthcare facility authorised to perform surgical and medical procedures where patients are discharged on the same day or after a short observation period, in accordance with the applicable health authority’s regulations.
Typical services may include:
- Ophthalmic procedures such as LASIK and cataract surgery
• Endoscopic gastrointestinal and urology procedures
• Surgical dental procedures
• Selected cosmetic and minor surgical procedures, subject to the approved scope of practice and health authority requirements
Unlike a standard medical clinic, a One-Day Surgery Center requires licensed operating theatres, recovery areas, specialised equipment, and appropriately qualified healthcare professionals.
Which Authority Issues the Licence?
The licensing authority depends on the emirate where the facility will operate.
Dubai
Facilities are licensed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Depending on the proposed services, the facility may be classified as a Day Care Surgical Center or approved as part of a larger healthcare facility. Architectural approval is typically required before commencing any fit-out works.
Abu Dhabi
The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH) licenses healthcare facilities and requires approved providers to integrate with the Malaffi Health Information Exchange.
(SHA) Sharjah Health Authority
Sharjah
Healthcare licensing in Sharjah depends on the location of the facility. In general, facilities are regulated either by the Sharjah Health Authority (SHA) depending on the applicable jurisdiction. Investors should confirm the competent licensing authority before proceeding with the application.
Northern Emirates
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) regulates private healthcare facilities in Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain.
Important: A commercial licence issued by a free zone or economic department does not authorise healthcare operations. A healthcare facility licence from the relevant health authority remains mandatory.
Key Steps in the Licensing Process
1.Define the scope of services
Determine the procedures your facility will offer, as this affects the required classification, staffing, equipment, and facility design.
2.Obtain initial approval
Applications generally include:
Trade name
Medical activity
Proposed location
Floor plans
Scope of services
Tenancy documentation
3.Facility design approval
The facility must comply with healthcare design standards, including:
Licensed operating room(s)
Recovery area
Sterile and non-sterile workflow separation
Emergency equipment and exits
4.Professional licensing
All physicians, nurses, and allied healthcare professionals must hold valid licences issued by the relevant health authority.
5.Site inspection
Before operations begin, the authority conducts an inspection to ensure the completed facility complies with approved plans and regulatory requirements.
6.Final licence issuance
Following successful inspection, the healthcare facility licence is issued and the facility is connected to the applicable electronic health systems, such as NABIDH in Dubai or Malaffi in Abu Dhabi.
7.Annual renewal
Healthcare facility licences must be renewed annually while maintaining compliance with staffing, operational, and quality requirements.
Common Licensing Mistakes
❌ Starting the fit-out before receiving design approval.
❌ Choosing the wrong facility classification.
❌ Overlooking professional licensing requirements.
❌ Delaying registration with electronic health information systems.
❌ Assuming that a commercial licence alone permits healthcare operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a One-Day Surgery Center operate in a UAE free zone?
Yes. However, the facility must still obtain a healthcare licence from the relevant health authority.
How long does licensing take?
Timelines vary depending on the emirate, project complexity, and the completeness of the application. Most projects require several months from planning to final approval.
Do Dubai and Abu Dhabi have different licensing requirements?
Yes. While the overall framework is similar, each authority has its own standards, procedures, and technical requirements.
Should I engage a healthcare licensing consultant?
For most investors, particularly those entering the UAE healthcare market for the first time, professional guidance can help avoid costly delays, reduce compliance risks, and streamline the approval process.
Final Thoughts
Establishing a One-Day Surgery Center in the UAE requires careful planning, regulatory compliance, and a clear understanding of each emirate’s licensing framework.
With the right preparation and expert guidance, investors can navigate the licensing process efficiently and launch their healthcare facility with confidence.
Planning to establish a One-Day Surgery Center in the UAE? Contact our healthcare licensing team to discuss your project and receive tailored guidance from concept to final approval.
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