Emergency Care for Kids in the UAE:
When your child is sick or injured, every second counts. Knowing where to go and what to expect at a children’s hospital emergency room (ER) in the UAE can make a stressful situation a little easier to handle. The UAE is home to world-class pediatric emergency care, with specialized hospitals and highly trained doctors ready to provide urgent medical attention to young patients.
In this article, we’ll explore:
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The top children’s hospitals with emergency services in the UAE
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When to take your child to the ER vs. a clinic
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What to expect during an ER visit
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Tips for parents to stay calm and prepared
Top Children’s Hospitals with Emergency Rooms in the UAE
The UAE has several hospitals dedicated to pediatric care, offering 24/7 emergency services. Here are some of the best:
1. Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital (Dubai)
As the first dedicated children’s hospital in Dubai, Al Jalila provides specialized emergency care for infants, children, and teenagers. Their ER is equipped to handle everything from minor injuries to critical conditions.
2. Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (Abu Dhabi)
Operated by SEHA, this hospital has a pediatric emergency department staffed by experts in child healthcare. They handle cases ranging from fractures to severe illnesses.
3. Latifa Hospital for Women and Children (Dubai)
Formerly known as Dubai Hospital for Women and Children, this facility offers comprehensive emergency services for kids, including trauma care and neonatal emergencies.
4. Corniche Hospital (Abu Dhabi)
Specializing in women’s and children’s health, Corniche Hospital has a well-equipped pediatric ER for urgent medical needs.
5. Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Pediatrics (Abu Dhabi & Dubai)
With branches in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Burjeel offers advanced pediatric emergency care with child-friendly facilities.
When Should You Take Your Child to the ER?
Not every fever or scrape requires an ER visit. However, some symptoms demand immediate medical attention. Take your child to the emergency room if they experience:
🔹 Severe Breathing Difficulties
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Wheezing, choking, or turning blue
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Rapid or labored breathing
🔹 High Fever with Other Symptoms
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Fever above 104°F (40°C) in infants under 3 months
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Fever with rash, stiff neck, or seizures
🔹 Serious Injuries
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Head injuries with vomiting or loss of consciousness
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Deep cuts that won’t stop bleeding
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Broken bones (especially if the bone is visible)
🔹 Signs of Severe Dehydration
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No urination for over 8 hours
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Sunken eyes, dry mouth, extreme lethargy
🔹 Poisoning or Allergic Reactions
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Swollen lips/tongue, difficulty breathing after eating something
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Ingestion of harmful substances (medications, cleaning products)
If you’re unsure whether the situation is an emergency, call your pediatrician or visit the nearest urgent care clinic first.
What to Expect in a Pediatric ER Visit
Emergency rooms can be overwhelming, but knowing the process can help parents stay calm.
1. Triage: Assessing Urgency
Upon arrival, a nurse will check your child’s condition and prioritize cases based on severity. Critical cases (like breathing difficulties) are seen immediately, while less urgent cases may wait longer.
2. Registration & Insurance
You’ll need to provide your child’s medical history, insurance details, and Emirates ID. If it’s a life-threatening emergency, treatment starts before paperwork.
3. Examination by a Pediatric Specialist
A doctor will examine your child, possibly ordering tests (blood work, X-rays) to diagnose the issue.
4. Treatment & Possible Admission
Depending on the diagnosis, your child may receive:
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Medication (IV fluids, antibiotics)
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Stitches for cuts
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A cast for fractures
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Hospital admission if further monitoring is needed
5. Discharge or Follow-Up Instructions
If your child is discharged, the doctor will explain home care steps and when to follow up with a pediatrician.
How to Prepare for a Pediatric ER Visit
No parent wants to rush to the ER, but being prepared can help. Here’s what you can do:
✔️ Keep Important Documents Handy
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Emirates ID
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Health insurance card
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Vaccination records
✔️ Know the Nearest Pediatric ER
Save the location and contact number of the closest children’s hospital in your phone.
✔️ Pack an Emergency Bag
Include:
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A change of clothes
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Snacks and water
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Comfort items (a favorite toy or blanket)
✔️ Stay Calm & Comfort Your Child
Kids pick up on parents’ anxiety. Staying calm helps them feel safer during treatment.
Final Thoughts
Accidents and sudden illnesses happen, but the UAE’s top-tier pediatric emergency rooms ensure children receive the best care possible. Knowing when to go, what to expect, and how to prepare can make a stressful experience smoother for both parents and little ones.
If your child needs urgent care, don’t hesitate—head straight to the nearest children’s hospital ER. Quick action can make all the difference in their recovery.