Medical Malpractice Claims
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on UAE federal decrees, laws, and ministerial decisions.
UAE Federal Law
What is this right?
If you are harmed by a medical error, UAE law gives you the right to seek compensation:
- Medical liability: A healthcare provider is liable if they cause harm through negligence, lack of skill, failure to follow medical standards, or failure to obtain proper consent.
- Medical Liability Committee: Before you can file a court case, your complaint must first be reviewed by the Higher Medical Liability Committee, which determines whether malpractice occurred.
- Committee investigation: The committee reviews medical records, interviews the healthcare provider, and may consult expert witnesses. Their report is submitted to the court.
- Compensation: If malpractice is confirmed, you can claim compensation for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and permanent disability. In death cases, the family receives blood money (diya).
- Criminal liability: In serious cases (death or permanent disability), the healthcare provider may face criminal charges in addition to civil liability.
When does it apply?
- You suffered injury, harm, or worsening of your condition due to medical treatment in the UAE.
- The harm was caused by negligence or failure to follow accepted medical standards.
- This applies to treatment at all licensed facilities — hospitals, clinics, dental offices, and aesthetic centres.
What should you do?
- Get your medical records from the facility where the error occurred — request a complete copy immediately.
- File a complaint with the health authority in your emirate (DHA, DOH, or MOH) — they will refer it to the Medical Liability Committee.
- Hire a lawyer experienced in medical malpractice — these cases require expert medical knowledge.
- Keep all evidence: medical reports, prescriptions, receipts, photos of injuries, and a written timeline of events.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not delay filing — you must file your complaint within a reasonable period while evidence is still available.
- Do not accept a settlement without legal advice — initial offers from hospitals or insurance companies may be far below what you are entitled to.
- Do not continue treatment at the same facility if you believe malpractice occurred — seek a second opinion elsewhere.
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