Main page • United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Welcome to PinkRibbon United Arab Emirates

You’re not alone. This page shares key facts about common female cancers in United Arab Emirates, survival stats, health initiatives, and trusted support organisations. Our mission is to ensure every woman has access to awareness, early detection, and compassionate care.

Donate

Cancer statistics
& survival rates

Breast Cancer
Most common cancer among women in UAE.
ASIR: ~45–50 per 100,000 (varies by emirate).
5-year survival: Estimated ~80–85%, with early-stage >95%.
Cervical Cancer
7th most common female cancer in UAE.
ASIR: ~4.5–6 per 100,000.
5-year survival: ~65–70%.
Ovarian Cancer
Less common but significant; often diagnosed late.
5-year survival: ~45–50% overall; >80% early-stage.
Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer
Rising incidence due to obesity and aging population.
5-year survival: ~80–85% early-stage; much lower for advanced disease.

### Systemic Challenges

Awareness Gaps: Cultural barriers and stigma limit uptake of screening, especially among older women.
Healthcare Access: High-quality care in cities, but logistical and cost barriers for uninsured or low-income residents.
Data Quality: Improving but cancer registry coverage is incomplete in some emirates.
Lifestyle Factors: Rising obesity, diabetes, and smoking rates contribute to cancer risk.
Diverse Population: Ensuring culturally sensitive care for a multinational, multilingual patient base.

—

Learn more

Recent research
& Initiatives

  • Recent Research

    National Cancer Control Plan 2022–2026: Launched by the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) to reduce cancer mortality by 18% by 2026. Focuses on early detection, screening coverage, and improving treatment capacity.
    HPV Vaccination Rollout: UAE introduced school-based HPV vaccination in 2008 for Emirati girls aged 13–14. Uptake remains high in Abu Dhabi, with efforts ongoing to expand nationwide.
    Cancer Registry Development: The UAE National Cancer Registry continues to improve data quality to monitor incidence, survival, and guide policy.
    AI & Genomics Initiatives: Collaborations with academic institutions to develop AI-driven tools and precision medicine approaches for cancer care in the Gulf region.

    Learn more

Support organizations

  • Support Organisations

    Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP): UAE-based charity offering financial, psychological, and practical support to patients. Runs national awareness campaigns like Pink Caravan for breast cancer screening. focp.ae
    Emirates Oncology Society: Professional body promoting oncology education, training, and advocacy.
    Dubai Health Authority (DHA): Provides free and subsidized screening programs and coordinates cancer services in Dubai. dha.gov.ae
    Abu Dhabi Public Health Center (ADPHC): Runs organized cancer screening programs in Abu Dhabi emirate. adphc.gov.ae

Accessing cancer screening and treatment

Where to get screened

These services are part of the national screening program “Prolamvano” (meaning “I Prevent”)

Learn more

  • **Where to Get Screened**

    Organized screening programs are offered via government health authorities:
    Breast Cancer: Women aged 40–69 are recommended to have a mammogram every 2 years.
    Cervical Cancer:
    Pap smears or HPV tests every 3–5 years for women aged 25–65.
    HPV vaccination recommended for girls aged 13–14 (school-based program).
    Colorectal Cancer: Adults aged 40–75 in Abu Dhabi are invited for FIT testing or colonoscopy based on risk factors.

    **Appointment Needed?
    Yes. Screenings are usually appointment-based at government hospitals, health centers, or private clinics.**

    **What to Bring:**

    Emirates ID
    Health insurance card
    Any previous medical records

    **Hotline Numbers:**

    MoHAP: 800 11111
    DHA Call Center: 800 342
    Abu Dhabi Health Services (SEHA) Call Center: 800 50

    Learn more
Support is nearby

Hotline numbers

800 11111
Typical Hours: Sunday–Thursday, standard UAE business hours (some hotlines 24/7).

Where to get treatment

  • Where to Go

    Public Hospitals: Oncology services at major government hospitals (Tawam Hospital in Al Ain, Dubai Hospital, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City).
    Specialized Centers:
    Tawam Hospital (Al Ain): National Cancer Center of Excellence.
    Dubai Hospital Oncology Center.
    Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Cancer Center.

    **Government Coverage:**

    Emirati citizens typically receive free or highly subsidized treatment through government insurance schemes.
    Residents with private insurance may have variable coverage based on their plan.

    **Note:
    Waiting times can vary depending on hospital and emirate. Patients should discuss timelines with their care teams.**

Financial support

  •

    **Government Programs:**

    Free or subsidized care for UAE nationals.
    Emirati citizens often have full coverage through Thiqa (Abu Dhabi) or similar schemes.

    **Additional Support:**

    Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP) offers financial help to patients in need.
    Hospital social services can assist with charity care and billing advice.
    Patients should consult hospital social workers or call hotlines for tailored support.

Need someone to talk to, anytime?

Our AI Chat is trained to support you with:

  • Gentle answers to medical questions (in clear, human language)
  • Answer health questions in simple, caring language
  • Help you find the right info on our website
  • Suggest clinics, support groups, and next steps
  • Be a listening ear when you need one
Support 24\7

Start using our chat right now

AI Chat

Learn more