How to Open a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai

How to Open a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai

Dubai is rapidly evolving as a growing city in the world, and the healthcare sector of Dubai is also rapidly transforming. Physiotherapy services play an important part in the sports injuries, treatment, and post-operative treatments. Therefore, starting a physiotherapy centre in Dubai is a good business opportunity that helps you contribute to improving the health of society. 

You need to secure the required approvals from the health authorities (authorities), if you want to set up a physiotherapy center in Dubai. You should comply with medical requirements and secure a business license to operate a business. The Dubai government has a relatively simple process for healthcare professionals and investors looking to set up a physiotherapy center in Dubai. This guide will provide you with all of the details regarding the establishment of a physiotherapy center in Dubai.

Why Start a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai?

If you are an investor or a healthcare practitioner, establishing a physiotherapy centre could be a viable and fulfilling venture in the UAE. Here are some reasons why it's possible: 

• The demand for rehabilitation and physical therapy services is increasing in Dubai
• Pro-business government with local laws to support healthcare businesses
• Access to a diverse pool of talented practitioners from all around the world
• You can have 100% ownership of the business in Free Zones
• A diverse population with a socially active lifestyle is available for healthcare needs

Steps to Open a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai 

Step 1: Choose Between Mainland and Free Zone 

You have to decide, you need to set up your clinic in:

• Mainland Dubai: You will have access to the local market (ex., partnerships with hospitals, insurance companies) and will be regulated by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). 
• Free Zone: You can have 100% ownership as foreign owners and an independent license issued by the Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA).

Step 2. Fulfill the Required Qualifications

To start a physiotherapy clinic, you could be a qualified physiotherapist or hire qualified professionals. The qualifications could be: 

• A Bachelor’s or Master´s degree in Physiotherapy
• 2 years minimum clinical experience
• Pass the DHA or DHCC assessment exam
• Get a Good Standing Certificate from the medical council
• Should have health and malpractice insurance, which are mandatory for professionals.

Step 3. Reserve Trade Name and Apply for Initial Approval

After you have made your decision on the type of clinic and where it will be located, you must:

• Reserve a trade name with the Department of Economy & Tourism (DET) or the Free Zone authority 
• Apply for Initial Approval, which means the government has no objection to your business activity
• When you receive initial approval, you can continue and apply for additional approvals for licensing of the clinic and inspection of the facility.

Step 4. Get your Clinic Space and Layout Plan

Your next step is to find a suitable location for your physiotherapy centre. There are health and safety standards to comply with, which are set forth by the DHA or DHCC. This includes:

• Proper treatment rooms 
• Reception, waiting area, and washrooms
• Proper exit and entry points 
• Maintaining hygiene, ventilation, and a medical waste disposal system. 

Step 5. Apply For DHA/ DHCC Facility Licensing 

When your premise and layout are approved, you have to apply for the following licenses:

• Physiotherapy Clinic License for your facility 
• Professional License for every physiotherapist you have hired 

You have to submit the following documents:

• Passport copies of owners and professionals
• Academic and experience certificates
• DHA/MOH/DHCC exam results 
• Floor plan that is approved 
• Medical malpractice insurance 

Step 6. Apply for Commercial License and Start Operations 

After receiving a health authority approval, you have to apply for the following licenses:

• Apply for the Commercial License for the Mainland and the Free Zone authority from the DET
• Make sure to complete your business registration 
• Set up your trade license, investor visa, and staff visa
• Install a patient management system for records and compliance 
• Set up the billing and insurance claim process if you want to partner with insurance companies. 

Key Requirements To Setup Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai 

Setting up a physiotherapy centre is not the same as setting up a regular business. Here are the requirements you have to meet to start a business:

1. Licensing from DHA or DHCC

This is mandatory, and it is important for both the facility and professional license. DHA regulates Mainland clinics, and DHCC regulates the licenses for the Free Zone. 

2. Qualified Healthcare Staff 

You have to hire physiotherapists who have proper licenses according to the qualification criteria of Dubai. DHA and DHCC both verify the degree, experience, and exam results. 

3. Facility Compliance

Your clinic should follow the strict standards related to hygiene, room size, equipment, and services. Your clinic should be approved by the Dubai Municipality and Civil Defense. 

4. Insurance and Safety 

Medical malpractice insurance is mandatory. All the staff should have health insurance, and your clinic should have fire safety and infection control measures. 

5. Medical Waste Disposal 

You have to register with an authority of medical waste disposal servcies to follow the environmental safety laws in Dubai. 

Cost of Opening a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai 

The overall cost to set up your clinic is dependent on factors such as location, size, and approvals. Here is the general and estimated breakdown of the factors that play an important role in the total cost:

How Flyingcolour Business Setup Can Help You in Setting Up a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai?

Flyingcolour Business Setup is an experienced business setup consultant company, and we offer complete guidance to healthcare entrepreneurs and professionals to set up a business in the UAE. We can help you with the full process of becoming a Physiotherapy center in Dubai, including licensing, approvals, and setups - so that all you have to think about is caring for people, helping them recover, and live healthier lives with quality services. Our services include:

• Business structure consultations (Mainland or Free Zone)
• Reservation of trade name and approvals 
• DHA/ DHCC license support 
• Legal documentation and visa process 
• Office lease and Ejari registration
• Assistance with a Medical license
• Proper support in compliance and renewal support 

Our team has experience that guarantees that your clinic setup is seamless, expeditious, and compliant on all levels. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About How to Open a Physiotherapy Centre in Dubai

1. Can I open a physiotherapy clinic in Dubai if I am not a physiotherapist?

Yes, you can open a clinic, but you have to hire a qualified and licensed Medical Director or Physiotherapist to provide proper treatment. 

2. How many days are required to set up a complete physiotherapy center?

It takes 4 to 8 weeks to complete the process. However, it also depends on the speed of the health authority approvals and documentations. 

3. What are the licenses important for starting a physiotherapy clinic?

You need two licenses:

• Facility License for the clinic from DHA and DHCC
• Professional License for every practicing physiotherapist

4. Can I get insurance for physiotherapy servcies?

When your clinic is licensed, you can register with the health insurance network to accept direct billing from patients with a valid policy. 

Therefore, to learn more about how to open a physiotherapy centre in Dubai, Book a free consultation with one of the Flyingcolour Business Setup team advisors.

The article was published on 16/08/2025. It is important to note that the federal policies and updates mentioned may have changed since then. For the most current information, please contact our consultant!