HEALTH
 Remarkably, the UAE was one of only two countries with
no reported cases of holiday illnesses recorded in a survey by the
leading British consumer magazine, Holiday Which? This is a tribute
to the success of government immunization programmes, the provision
of adequate clean water and high standards of cleanliness in hotels
and restaurants.
Vaccinations
No special immunizations are required, however it would
be wise to check beforehand if you are travelling from a health-risk
area. Tetanus inoculations are usually recommended if you are considering
a long trip. Polio has been virtually eradicated in the UAE and
hepatitis is very rare and can be avoided by taking precautions.
Hepatitis A is transmitted by contaminated food and water, Hepatitis
B, C, D through sexual contact, the use of unsterilized needles
and blood transfusions.
Malaria
There are very few mosquitoes in the towns and cities and,
since it is not considered to be a risk, malaria tablets are rarely
prescribed for travel in the UAE. However, mosquitoes will find
you if you are camping near the mountains or exploring wadis or
date groves in the evening, so cover up and use a suitable insect
repellent as it is always safer to avoid being bitten. If you are
in any doubt consult your doctor or your nearest tropical medical
centre before your trip.
Sunburn
The sun can be fierce throughout the year so heatstroke
and heat exhaustion are always a risk. Adequate sunglasses, hats
and high factor sun creams are essential, especially for children.
Health insurance
Public hospitals, where the medical facilities are very
good, will deal with emergencies free of charge, however it would
be wise to take out medical insurance to cover all eventualities,
especially if you need to attend a private hospital or clinic where
treatment can be quite expensive. In all instances, medical procedures,
including the use of sterilized needles and the provision of blood
transfusions are very reliable.
Doctors
If you need a doctor, ask at your hotel, or ring your embassy
for recommendations. If you need emergency treatment and are unable
to contact a doctor, try one of the major hospitals listed below.
Pharmacies
Most medicines are readily available at pharmacies. Each
emirate has at least one pharmacy open 24 hours a day. Check in
local newspapers for information. In some emirates a 24-hour municipality
emergency number (Abu Dhabi 02 777 929; Dubai 04 2232323) lists
the locations of open chemists.
Dentists
Good dentists are readily available, including orthodontists.
Alternative medicine
Chinese medicine is readily available. There is also a
homeopathic hospital.
Ambulance service 998 or 999
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