Procedure cost · Abu Dhabi
Cataract Surgery Cost in Abu Dhabi.
67 providers · 15–30 minutes per eye · Typically covered by insurance · Last updated March 2026
According to the UAE Open Healthcare Directory, a cataract surgery in Abu Dhabi costs AED 4,500 to AED 18,000, with a typical price of AED 9,000. There are 67 ophthalmology providers in Abu Dhabi listed in the directory. Most health insurance plans in the UAE cover this procedure when medically indicated. Healthcare in Abu Dhabi is regulated by the UAE healthcare regulator (Abu Dhabi). Prices vary based on facility type (government vs. private vs. premium), doctor experience, and clinical complexity. Data sourced from the Mandatory Tariff methodology and market-observed ranges, last verified March 2026.
From
AED 4,500
Lowest price
Typical
AED 9,000
Most common price
Up to
AED 18,000
Premium facilities
About Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery removes the clouded natural lens of the eye and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). It is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the world, with a very high success rate. Phacoemulsification is the standard technique.
Duration
15–30 minutes per eye
Recovery
1–2 weeks (most activities), 4–6 weeks (full)
Insurance
Typically covered
Setting
day-case
What to expect
The eye is numbed with drops. A tiny incision is made, and ultrasound energy breaks up the cloudy lens. The fragments are suctioned out and a new IOL is inserted. The incision self-seals. Each eye is done separately, usually 1–2 weeks apart. Surgery takes 15–30 minutes.
Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia is typically used for this procedure.
Cataract Surgery cost comparison — all UAE cities
Compare cataract surgery prices across all UAE emirates. Abu Dhabi is highlighted below.
| City | From | Typical | Up to | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | AED 5,000 | AED 10,000 | AED 20,000 | View |
| Abu Dhabi(current) | AED 4,500 | AED 9,000 | AED 18,000 | Viewing |
| Sharjah | AED 3,000 | AED 7,000 | AED 14,000 | View |
| Ajman | AED 3,000 | AED 6,500 | AED 12,000 | View |
| Ras Al Khaimah | AED 3,500 | AED 7,000 | AED 13,000 | View |
| Fujairah | AED 3,500 | AED 6,500 | AED 12,000 | View |
| Umm Al Quwain | AED 3,000 | AED 6,000 | AED 11,000 | View |
| Al Ain | AED 3,500 | AED 7,500 | AED 14,000 | View |
Insurance coverage
Cataract surgery is medically necessary and covered by most UAE insurance plans including Daman basic. Pre-authorisation is required. Standard monofocal IOLs are covered; premium multifocal or toric IOLs may incur an out-of-pocket upgrade fee of AED 3,000–8,000.
Ophthalmology providers in Abu Dhabi
67 providers offer ophthalmology services in Abu Dhabi. These clinics and hospitals may perform cataract surgery procedures. Contact providers directly to confirm availability and pricing.
Al Jaber Optical Centre
Musaffah - ICAD I - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
0 ★
AL Jaber Optical Center
Unit No. B84, Level 1 - mall Street#2 - الزاهية - شرق 16 1 - أبو ظبي - United Arab Emirates
0 ★
AL Jaber Optical Center
Unit NO. RG-132, Ground Floor - Al Shamkhah - SH8 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
0 ★
AL Jaber Optical Centre -LLC-Abudhabi
Unit No. B84, Level 1 - mall Street#2 - الزاهية - شرق 16 1 - أبو ظبي - United Arab Emirates
0 ★
AL Jaber Optical Centre
Yas Mall - Unit No. G-023, Ground Floor - Yas Island - YS1 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
0 ★
AL Jaber Opticalcentre
Unit No. B84, Level 1 - mall Street#2 - الزاهية - شرق 16 1 - أبو ظبي - United Arab Emirates
0 ★
Related procedures
Cataract Surgery in Abu Dhabi — FAQ
How much does a cataract surgery cost in Abu Dhabi?
A cataract surgery in Abu Dhabi costs AED 4,500 to AED 18,000, with a typical price of AED 9,000. Pricing depends on the facility type (government, private, or premium), the doctor's experience, and specific clinical requirements. Healthcare in Abu Dhabi is regulated by the UAE healthcare regulator (Abu Dhabi).
Where can I get a cataract surgery in Abu Dhabi?
There are 67 ophthalmology providers in Abu Dhabi listed in the UAE Open Healthcare Directory. Browse listings below to compare providers by rating, insurance acceptance, and services offered. All data from official government registers, last verified March 2026.
Does insurance cover a cataract surgery in Abu Dhabi?
Cataract surgery is medically necessary and covered by most UAE insurance plans including Daman basic. Pre-authorisation is required. Standard monofocal IOLs are covered; premium multifocal or toric IOLs may incur an out-of-pocket upgrade fee of AED 3,000–8,000.
How long does a cataract surgery take?
A cataract surgery typically takes 15–30 minutes per eye. Recovery time is 1–2 weeks (most activities), 4–6 weeks (full). Local anaesthesia is typically used.
What is the cheapest option for a cataract surgery in Abu Dhabi?
The lowest price for a cataract surgery in Abu Dhabi starts from AED 4,500 at government or basic private facilities. For competitive pricing, compare multiple providers in the UAE Open Healthcare Directory and confirm the quote directly with the facility. Government hospitals generally charge 30-50% less than premium private hospitals.
Is a cataract surgery cheaper in Abu Dhabi compared to other UAE cities?
Abu Dhabi ranks #7 out of 8 UAE cities for cataract surgery pricing (typical: AED 9,000). The cheapest city is Umm Al Quwain at AED 6,000 typical. See the city comparison table above for full details.