As Dubai continues to grow as a global hub of innovation and inclusivity, one area that’s gaining strong attention is elderly care services in Dubai. With an increasing number of residents seeking compassionate, professional care for aging family members, the demand for reliable elderly care in Dubai is higher than ever. Setting up a senior care or assisted living service is not just a profitable venture, it’s a deeply meaningful one that contributes to community well-being and social progress.
Looking to establish your senior care business in Dubai? Get expert setup guidance from Raes Associates your trusted UAE business consultants.
Why Elderly Care Services in Dubai Are More Important Than Ever
Dubai’s population is evolving, families are becoming more nuclear, and many elderly residents prefer professional care environments where they can receive attention, comfort, and medical support. The government has recognized this shift, promoting elderly care services in Dubai that ensure dignity and safety for all.
According to recent trends, Dubai is witnessing:
- A rising elderly population, particularly among expatriates and long-term residents.
- Increased preference for assisted living options, offering healthcare support combined with social engagement.
- Government initiatives that encourage compassionate senior care as part of UAE’s wider social welfare vision.
This growing demand highlights a promising opportunity for entrepreneurs to build high-quality, regulated care facilities that provide not just shelter, but a sense of belonging.
Need help with licensing and approvals for your elderly care venture? Contact Raes Associates today for a free consultation.
Inside Dubai’s Senior Care and Homecare Market: What You Should Know
The homecare services in Dubai market has rapidly expanded, with numerous professional providers such as Emirates Home Nursing LLC Dubai setting high standards. Entrepreneurs entering this space can explore multiple service models from home-based elderly caregiving to fully equipped assisted living centers.
The most in-demand services include
- Personalized home nursing and post-surgery recovery support.
- Companionship and mobility assistance for seniors living independently.
- Medical monitoring and therapy services offered in-home or at specialized facilities.
What makes this market sustainable is Dubai’s progressive healthcare framework and its growing trust in certified elderly caregivers in Dubai. The city’s diverse expat population also opens opportunities to offer culturally sensitive, multilingual care services.
Thinking about venturing into the caregiving or childcare field? Explore our detailed guide on how to start a home daycare in Dubai to understand similar setup processes.
Legal and Licensing Requirements to Start an Elderly Care Business
Starting a home care business in Dubai involves multiple layers of approval to ensure quality and safety. Investors need to comply with regulations laid down by:
- Dubai Health Authority (DHA) – for clinical and nursing operations.
- Community Development Authority (CDA) – for non-medical elderly support services.
- Dubai Municipality – for facility standards and operational safety.
In addition, obtaining a nursing license in Dubai is essential if you plan to provide medical assistance or rehabilitation services.
Documents Required:
- Trade name and business plan.
- Passport copies of partners/investors.
- Professional qualification and experience certificates for caregivers.
- Tenancy contract and layout approval of your facility.
The cost of setting up an old age home in Dubai can vary depending on location, scale, and licensing type. On average, initial expenses range between AED 150,000–300,000 for small-scale centers.
Step-by-Step Process to Start a Senior Care or Assisted Living Service in Dubai
Setting up a compliant, successful care business involves several clear steps.
Step 1 – Choose Your Business Model (Homecare or Facility-Based)
Decide whether you’ll offer home-based nursing or a residential facility. Each has unique licensing requirements.
Step 2 – Get Approvals from Relevant Authorities
Secure all necessary permits from DHA, CDA, and Municipality before operations begin.
Step 3 – Hire Qualified Elderly Caregivers and Nurses
Staffing is crucial. Employ DHA-licensed nurses, certified physiotherapists, and trained caregivers familiar with elderly support.
Step 4 – Ensure Facility Safety and Compliance
Your space should meet strict hygiene, accessibility, and safety standards – including medical storage areas and emergency protocols.
Step 5 – Market Your Services and Build Trust
Use digital marketing, partnerships with hospitals, and community engagement to attract families seeking care for loved ones.
Need expert help navigating Dubai’s healthcare setup process? Connect with Raes Associates we simplify your licensing journey from start to finish.
Cost and Profitability Insights
Starting an elder care business setup in Dubai is both socially rewarding and financially sustainable. On average, the total setup cost for a senior care or homecare service in Dubai ranges between AED 120,000 and AED 250,000, depending on your facility size and the type of care you provide. While this includes expenses like staff recruitment, licensing, and medical equipment, the long-term profitability remains strong due to a consistent rise in demand for quality elderly care services.
Approximate Costs Include:
- Business license and government approvals – AED 15,000–25,000
- Staffing and training – AED 40,000–60,000
- Facility setup and medical supplies – AED 70,000–150,000
With the rising number of elderly residents and premium pricing for personalized care, many entrepreneurs find this sector highly profitable within 2–3 years of operation.
Challenges and Best Practices in Running an Elderly Care Service
Like any healthcare business, running a senior care center comes with its own challenges, regulatory compliance, caregiver retention, and ensuring trust with families.
To succeed, focus on:
- Training caregivers in both medical and emotional care.
- Maintaining strict hygiene and safety protocols.
- Using smart monitoring and IoT-based tools for real-time health updates.
- Building a culture of compassion that treats residents with respect and empathy.
Interested in exploring another growing care niche? Read our blog on how to start a pet grooming and care business in Dubai for valuable insights on service-based entrepreneurship.
Why Work with Raes Associates for Business Setup in Dubai
Starting a senior care or assisted living business involves navigating multiple regulatory layers, but you don’t have to do it alone.
Raes Associates provides complete business setup solutions, from licensing and approvals to documentation and local compliance.
Our experts have helped entrepreneurs establish healthcare, education, and social service ventures across the UAE with ease.
Let’s bring compassionate care to Dubai together. Contact Raes Associates on WhatsApp to start your journey today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the UAE take care of elderly people?
The UAE promotes elderly care through initiatives by the CDA, dedicated facilities, and partnerships with private care providers that ensure senior citizens receive respect, safety, and comfort.
Are caregivers in demand in Dubai?
Yes, with the rise in elderly residents and working families, elderly caregivers in Dubai are in high demand, both for in-home and facility-based services.
What do I need to start my own old-age home?
You’ll need a DHA or CDA-approved license, qualified staff, an approved facility layout, and compliance with Dubai’s healthcare and safety regulations.
What’s the process for entering a senior care facility in Dubai?
Families usually register with a care provider, submit health details, and schedule an assessment before selecting a care plan.
