Types of clinic space
The market for clinic space in Dubai covers several categories. Solo practices (50–150 sqm) suit a single physician with support staff: dentists, dermatologists, general practitioners. Multi-specialist clinics (150–500 sqm) accommodate several physicians and offer a broader range of treatments.
Polyclinics (500–2,000 sqm) are larger facilities with multiple specialisms, a pharmacy, a laboratory and sometimes day surgery. Day surgery centres require even larger premises with operating theatres and a recovery ward, subject to strict DHA standards.
Cosmetic and wellness clinics form a fast-growing segment, blending medical treatments (botox, fillers, laser therapy) with wellness services. These clinics are popular in premium locations such as DIFC, Jumeirah and Downtown.
Locations for clinics
Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) is the primary destination for medical facilities, with its own regulatory framework that appeals to international physicians. Phase 2 of DHCC, Al Jaddaf, offers newer units with modern specifications.
Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim provide established clinic locations close to affluent residents. JLT, Business Bay and DIFC are popular for cosmetic and wellness clinics serving an international clientele.
Community clinics in JVC, Dubai Hills, Mirdif and Arabian Ranches benefit from a growing local population that remains medically under-served. Here you will find clinic spaces from AED 700 per square foot, with yields of up to 10–11%.
Dubai Science Park offers space for biotech, pharmaceutical and medical research clinics within a specialised free zone environment.
DHA regulations for clinics
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) sets detailed requirements for clinic premises. Every clinic must provide a minimum floor area per treatment room (12–15 sqm), a waiting area of at least 20 sqm, separate access for staff and patients (in larger clinics) and adequate sanitary facilities.
Polyclinics face additional requirements: an in-house pharmacy, laboratory facilities, emergency exits and a minimum number of parking spaces. Day surgery centres must meet operating theatre standards, including air quality (HEPA filtration), backup power and a recovery area.
The DHA issues licences by category: Clinic (solo practice), Polyclinic (multi-specialist), Day Surgery Centre and Specialized Centre. The category determines which treatments you may perform and which facilities you must provide.
Fit-out for clinics
The fit-out of clinic space is the largest cost item after the purchase itself. A standard dental clinic with two treatment chairs costs around AED 400,000–800,000 to fit out. A cosmetic clinic with laser equipment requires an investment of AED 500,000–1.5 million.
Polyclinics with a pharmacy and laboratory require AED 1–4 million in fit-out costs. Day surgery centres are the most expensive, with investments of AED 3–10 million for operating theatres, sterilisation units and medical equipment.
When acquiring clinic space, we always advise verifying its technical suitability: Is the electrical capacity sufficient? Is there a water connection at the right pressure? Does the zoning permit medical use? Are there competing clinics nearby? These factors determine the feasibility and success of the clinic.
Investing in clinic space as a landlord
Clinic space is an attractive investment segment thanks to long leases (5–10 years), reliable tenants (medical professionals) and low vacancy rates. Medical practices rarely relocate, given their investment in fit-out and their patient base.
Net rental yields for clinic space amount to 8–11%, higher than for standard office space. Capital appreciation is supported by rising demand for medical services and the medical tourism that Dubai actively promotes.
As an investor, you acquire the space and lease it to a medical professional or clinic group. No medical background is required. Augusta Properties identifies suitable tenants through our network of medical professionals across the UAE.