When I was pregnant with my first baby, I did what most British expat mums in Dubai do — I googled everything. But even after all the forums, hospital tours, and antenatal classes you can do, there were still quite a few surprises waiting for me in the UAE maternity system.
If you're an expectant mum in the UAE, or considering starting a family here, here’s an honest, mum-to-mum guide to what no one really tells you about giving birth in Dubai, including tips, things to prepare for, and how to feel more confident in your choices.
🏥 1. Hospital Birth is the Default, But Your Experience Can Vary Wildly
In the UAE, almost all births happen in private hospitals. There's no NHS-style universal maternity care, so you’ll need private insurance or will be paying out of pocket. But here's the thing, not all hospitals are created equal, and your birth experience will largely depend on where you choose.
Some hospitals have midwife-led care and support natural birth, while others have very medicalised approaches. It's worth touring multiple hospitals, asking questions about their C-section rate, and seeing which one aligns with your values.
💸 2. Even with Insurance, You Might Still Get Surprised by Costs
Maternity packages can look like a bargain at first glance, especially if you're comparing them to UK private healthcare. But, many plans don’t include extras like NICU care, epidurals, lactation consultants, or emergency procedures.
If you’re going the insurance route, double-check the fine print:
• Is your hospital of choice fully covered?
• What’s your out-of-pocket cap?
• Do you need pre-approvals for each scan or test?
Many expat mums opt to pay the delivery package themselves, especially if their insurance coverage is limited. Check what is and isn't included in this.
🧕 3. Cultural Norms Might Surprise You
Dubai is very cosmopolitan, but when it comes to maternity care, you’ll encounter a mix of global standards and regional norms.Some surprises include:
• You may be asked for your marriage certificate at some hospital check-ins (although it is now legal to have a baby unmarried)
• There are a few clinics where men aren’t always allowed in to scans and labour wards
• There's a strong preference for male circumcision in many local communities, often done in hospital before discharge.
• The postpartum period is often supported by extended family or hired help
• You could go through the whole pregnancy without meeting a single midwife
🤱 4. Postnatal Support Isn’t Built-In — You Have to Find It
In the UK, you might expect regular visits from a midwife or health visitor. In the UAE? You’re on your own unless you organise it.
That includes:
• Postnatal midwife visits
• Breastfeeding support
• Baby development check-ins and doctors visits
The good news is, there are incredible services here, check out Lullabies for both antenatal classes and lactation support. You'll also find expat-run postnatal support groups. But they’re not automatically offered, you have to seek them out yourself.
🧘♀️ 5. Finding Your People Makes All the Difference
Many mums in the UK make lifelong friends through their NCT classes. In Dubai, that kind of bonding doesn’t always happen organically — but it can.
Look for antenatal groups like:
• Birth & Beyond by Lullabies and Nikki aka The Fit Midwife
• Hypnobirthing classes
• Pregnancy yoga
• Online due-date groups
Making mum friends before birth can help ease isolation in those early weeks — especially if you don’t have family nearby. It's also why I began Next of Kin The Podcast, to keep you company.
🧼 6. The Aftercare Often Falls Short of What You Deserve
You might get a beautiful private room, hotel-style service, and multiple scans during pregnancy… but when it comes to your recovery, you’re often sent home with minimal advice or support.
From C-section wound care to mental health to sleep struggles, it’s up to you to build your own village of doulas, sleep consultants, therapists or even just other mums in the same boat.
I strongly suggest that all Mums invest in a Mummy MOT session. Listen to my episode with Laura Barrett (Dubai-based Womens Physio) to find out more.
💛 Final Thoughts from a Fellow Expat Mum
Giving birth in the UAE can be amazing, with personalised care, beautiful facilities and access to both Western and alternative support. But it also requires you to advocate for yourself, ask questions, and plan ahead.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone. There’s a growing community of mums supporting mums right here, and at Next of Kin, we’re proud to champion the small, local brands and services that help make this journey a little easier.
