If you’re applying for or renewing a visa in Dubai, you’ll likely need to go through a mandatory medical fitness test. One of the most popular and accessible places to do this is Al Karama Medical Center. Every year, thousands of expats visit the center for visa-related medical checks, but many first-timers don’t know what to expect. This guide breaks down the process step by step.

What Is Al Karama Medical Center?

Al Karama Medical Center is one of Dubai’s most well-known and government approved medical fitness centers. It plays a vital role in the visa process because every expat applying for a new residence visa or renewing an existing one must undergo a medical fitness test at an approved facility.

The center specializes in handling visa related medical examinations for expats. This includes blood tests and chest X-rays that check for infectious diseases such as HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis. Once you pass the test, the medical fitness certificate issued by Al Karama Medical Center is used as part of your residence visa approval.

One of the reasons it is so popular is its location (Al Karama), which is right in the center of Dubai and can therefore be easily reached via metro, bus, or taxi. For many expats this health center is one of the most convenient options compared to other centers in the city. Because of its accessibility, it often sees large numbers of applicants daily, which makes it important to plan your visit and arrive early.

Who Needs the Visa Medical Test?

The medical fitness test at Al Karama Medical Center is a mandatory requirement for most expats living and working in Dubai. It is part of the government’s effort to maintain public health standards and ensure that anyone applying for residency is medically fit.

You will need to take this test if:

  • You are applying for a new UAE residence visa for the first time.
  • You are renewing your current residence visa, which usually has to be done every two or three years depending on your visa type.
  • You are applying for work in certain job categories that require extra checks, such as domestic workers, food handlers, healthcare workers, and others who may be in close contact with the public.

The results of the test will determine whether your visa application is approved. If you pass, you receive a medical fitness certificate which is submitted to immigration as part of your paperwork. If a serious infectious disease is detected, your visa application can be denied.

This is why many expats consider the medical test to be one of the most important steps in their residency process. It is arguably the most important requirement that can affect your ability to legally stay and work in Dubai.

Services Provided for Visa Applicants

Blood test tubes prepared in a medical lab, which are part of the visa medical tests required at Al Karama Medical Center in Dubai

When you visit this health facility for a UAE visa related goals, here is what you can expect:

Blood Tests

The first part of the medical fitness check is a blood test. This is carried out to screen for serious infectious diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis B. These tests are mandatory for all expats applying for or renewing a residence visa.

Chest X-Ray

You will then be required to take a chest X-ray, which checks for tuberculosis (TB). TB is one of the conditions that the UAE health authorities monitor closely. If signs of TB are detected, you may be asked to undergo further testing or treatment before your visa process can continue.

Medical Fitness Certificate

Once the tests are complete, the results are reviewed by the doctors at the center. If everything is clear, you will be issued a medical fitness certificate. This certificate is submitted with the rest of the documents for your visa application and is a key document that immigration requires in order to grant or renew your residence permit.

Optional Fast-Track Services

For those in a hurry, Al Karama Medical Center also offers urgent services where results can be delivered on the same day. These come at a higher cost but are useful if your visa deadline is close or if your employer requires quick processing.

Step-by-Step Process

For many first-time visitors, the idea of a visa medical test can feel intimidating. In reality, the process at Al Karama Medical Center is straightforward as long as you come prepared. Here’s what usually happens:

1. Book Your Appointment

You can either book online through the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) system or simply walk in. Booking ahead is better if you want to avoid long queues, especially during busy mornings.

2. Bring the Required Documents

Carry the essentials:

  • Original passport and a copy
  • Visa copy (for new applicants)
  • Emirates ID (if you are renewing)
  • Passport-sized photos (usually two)

3. Pay the Fees

Payment is required before you begin the tests. The amount depends on whether you choose the standard service or the urgent fast-track option.

4. Complete the Medical Tests

You will first take a blood test in the lab section, followed by a chest X-ray in the radiology department. Both procedures are quick and usually done in under an hour, depending on how crowded the center is.

5. Collect Your Results

For standard applications, results are usually ready within 2 to 3 working days. If you pay for the urgent service, you can often get your results on the same day. The medical fitness certificate will then be issued, which you or your employer can submit to immigration for your visa process.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of the medical fitness test at Al Karama Medical Center depends on how quickly you need the results. The faster the service, the higher the fee. As of the writing of this post, these are the fees associated with the medical tests:

  • Standard Medical Test: Around AED 320 – 350 ($87 – 95 USD). Results are typically ready within 2 – 3 working days.
  • Urgent Medical Test (Fast Track): Starts from AED 700+ ($190+ USD). Results are usually delivered the same day.
  • VIP or Express Packages: Some employers or agencies may arrange premium services that include priority processing at a higher cost.

Tip: If you are not in a rush, the standard test is the most cost-effective. But if your visa deadline is very close, it is worth paying extra for the urgent option to avoid overstaying penalties.

FAQs about the Al Karama Medical Center Visa

Front view of Al Karama Medical Center in Dubai, where expats go for visa medical tests.

How long do Al Karama medical results take?

For standard applications, results are usually ready in 2 to 3 working days. If you opt for the urgent service, results can be issued on the same day.

Can I track my medical test results online?

Yes. Dubai Health Authority (DHA) allows you to track your medical fitness results online using your passport number or Emirates ID. This is helpful if you don’t want to visit the center again.

What documents do I need for the visa medical test?

You’ll need to bring:

  • Original passport + copy
  • A completed registration form
  • Visa copy (for new applicants)
  • Emirates ID (for renewals)
  • Passport-sized photos (usually 2)

Is the medical test mandatory for all visas in Dubai?

Yes. All expats applying for a residence visa (whether new or renewal) must pass a medical fitness test at a DHA-approved center such as Al Karama.

What health checks are included in the visa medical test?

The test typically includes:

  • Blood test (for HIV, Hepatitis B, etc.)
  • Chest X-ray (to check for tuberculosis)
  • Any additional tests if your job category requires them

Where is Al Karama Medical Center located?

The center is in Al Karama, Dubai, near ADCB Metro Station (Red Line). It’s easily accessible by metro, bus, or taxi.

What are the working hours of Al Karama Medical Center?

The Center is open throughout the week with the following timings:

  • Monday – Thursday: 07:00 AM to 09:30 PM

  • Friday: 07:00 AM to 07:30 PM

  • Saturday: 08:00 AM to 07:30 PM

  • Sunday: 08:00 AM to 07:30 PM

Tip: If you want to avoid long queues, it is best to visit early in the morning right after opening hours.