All applicants for UAE long-term residence visas must pass a UAE medical fitness test. Here is the complete 2025 guide to UAE visa medical requirements.
What the UAE Medical Fitness Test Involves
The UAE medical fitness test typically includes: blood test (checking for HIV/AIDS and certain infectious diseases), tuberculosis (TB) chest X-ray, and general health screening. Specific tests included can vary by emirate and visa type. The test is conducted at approved UAE medical centres (listed on the GDRFA or ICP websites). Cost: AED 250-600 depending on emirate and medical centre. Processing time: same day or next day results in most cases.
Conditions That Can Result in Visa Refusal
The UAE can refuse a residence visa (or revoke an existing one) if the applicant tests positive for: HIV/AIDS, active tuberculosis (TB), and certain other communicable diseases listed under UAE health regulations. The UAE’s position on HIV: the UAE officially bans people living with HIV from obtaining residence visas. This policy is increasingly at odds with international human rights standards, and some exceptions have been reported in practice, but the official position remains as stated. Leprosy and active hepatitis may also be grounds for refusal in some cases.
Medical Test Location and Process
In Dubai: approved medical fitness centres are listed on the GDRFA (Amer Centres, Tadbeer Centres, and other approved clinics). In Abu Dhabi: HAAD-approved medical centres. In other emirates: local health authority approved centres. Applicants typically: book an appointment online or walk in, bring passport and UAE visa/entry permit, complete the test (blood draw + X-ray), and receive results electronically linked to their Emirates ID application. The medical fitness certificate is valid for 3 months from the test date.