Wondering whether to have your baby in Dubai or 'back home'?

Wondering whether to have your baby in Dubai or 'back home'?

If you’re an expat living in Dubai and expecting a baby, you’ve likely asked yourself:
Should I give birth here, or fly home to have my baby surrounded by family and familiarity?

It’s a big decision—one that involves heart, head, health and home. Not to mention finances! And as a paediatric nurse and antenatal educator supporting Dubai mums through their journeys, I’ve seen just how personal and emotional this choice can be.

So let’s look at the real-life pros and cons of both options—without judgement, just understanding—and help you feel more informed as you prepare for your life’s biggest milestone.

Having your baby in Dubai – The pros

Continuity of care

If you’re settled in Dubai, staying here means you can build a relationship with your doctor or midwife, and attend antenatal appointments without disruption. You’ll also likely give birth in the same hospital you’ve been attending, which helps reduce anxiety. The other side of this is finding a health professional team that you feel comfortable with. Often, at home, this isn't an option so the decision feels easier as it's made for you.

Modern medical facilities

Dubai offers world-class hospitals and maternity units with excellent obstetricians, neonatologists, and lactation consultants. Many private hospitals offer hotel-like amenities, and some even include rooming-in and water birth options. Home birth is not legal in Dubai, so therefore you must have your baby in a hospital.

No travel stress

Flying late in pregnancy can be exhausting and stressful—plus there’s always the worry of early labour mid-flight! Staying put means no last-minute flights, jet lag, or hospital system adjustments. This is also applicable after birth. I have seen many new mums stressed out after trying to get back to Dubai quickly after birth as they don't have a lot of maternity leave or annual leave saved up.

Stay with your partner

One of the biggest benefits is that your partner can be fully involved—from antenatal scans to the birth itself. For many mums, this emotional support outweighs the pull of flying home.

‍‍Having your baby in Dubai – the considerations

Limited family support

Many expat mums say they miss their mum, sisters or aunties during those early newborn weeks. If you stay in Dubai, you may have fewer hands to help with postpartum recovery, meals and baby care—especially if your partner returns to work quickly. Remember that (if budget allows), most of these things can be outsourced via meal plan, cleaning, private midwife and nanny companies to help if you need them to.

Higher costs

Unless you have a comprehensive insurance package, private maternity care in Dubai can be pricey. Always check your coverage carefully, and budget for scans, hospital stay, and postnatal visits. The flip side of that coin, is that if you're not entitled (or don't have access) to a public healthcare system at home, it can be equally pricey to give birth there.

Administrative to-dos

Registering your baby’s birth, passport and visa can feel daunting in Dubai—especially if your baby is born during a public holiday or if paperwork takes longer than expected.

Having your baby in your home country – the pros

Familiar healthcare system

Many mums feel more at ease giving birth in a system they grew up with. You may already know how things work, what to expect, and which hospital or birth centre you prefer.

Built-in support system

You’ll likely be surrounded by family and friends who can bring food, offer emotional support, and help with the baby. This can make a world of difference in those early days.

Financial relief (in some countries)

In countries like the UK, Australia or Canada, maternity care may be free or heavily subsidised—especially if you’re still eligible for public healthcare. Always check your home country's rules and regulations with regards to this- no one needs to be hit with a large unexpected bill! As an ex senior nurse in the NHS, I can tell you that they definitely do send a bill if they become aware that you are not eligible for care, so be aware of this.

Having your baby in your home country – the considerations

Travel at a sensitive time

Flying while pregnant (especially in the third trimester) can be uncomfortable, and long-haul travel with a newborn isn’t easy either. You may also risk being away from your partner for an extended time.

Disrupted continuity of care

You might have to start from scratch with a new midwife or doctor, and there's the potential of not seeing your regular support person until labour.

Paperwork + residency headaches

Getting your baby’s passport, birth certificate, and UAE residency visa sorted from abroad can involve extra paperwork and delays. Not ideal with a newborn in tow! However, on the flip side, having your baby in your home country can make obtaining their home country's citizenship much easier. Whilst it may not affect them directly, it may affect their children's right to citizenship when the time comes. Always check the rules around citizenship and succession.

So... What’s the right answer?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all. Some mums love giving birth in Dubai, and others can’t imagine not being back home with their family.

The key is asking:
What will make me feel safest, calmest and most supported—emotionally and physically?

No matter where you choose, remember:
You can still receive wonderful care.
You are doing your best for your baby and your body.
Support is available—wherever you are.

Need extra support?

Whether you choose to birth in Dubai or abroad, Lullabies offers a range of support:
Antenatal education
Feeding guidance and lactation support
Gentle newborn sleep support
Postnatal care & first aid for parents

Get in touch to find out how we can support you—wherever your journey takes you.

Follow us on Instagram @lullabiesdxb for expert tips, advice and a warm community of mums going through the same journey as you.

‍