Complete Blood Count (CBC) — Price Comparison in the UAE
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The most commonly ordered blood test worldwide.
Turnaround
6 hours
Sample
Blood sample (venipuncture)
Common Reasons to Order
Understanding Your CBC Results
What This Test Measures
A Complete Blood Count measures three primary cell lines produced by bone marrow: red blood cells (which carry oxygen via haemoglobin), white blood cells (the immune system's frontline cells, broken down into neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils), and platelets (tiny cell fragments critical for clot formation). The CBC also reports haematocrit (the percentage of blood volume occupied by red cells) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV), which helps classify the type of anaemia when present.
Who Should Get This Test
Recommended For
A CBC is one of the most commonly ordered tests worldwide and is appropriate for almost any clinical situation: routine annual health screening, pre-operative assessment, investigation of persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, fever of unknown origin, or bruising/bleeding concerns. Children with recurrent infections, pregnant women (to screen for anaemia), and expats undergoing visa medicals in the UAE routinely have a CBC included in their workup.
In the UAE Context
Iron-deficiency anaemia is highly prevalent in the UAE, particularly among South Asian and Filipino expat women, with some studies estimating rates above 30% in certain demographics. Thalassaemia trait is also more common in populations from the Indian subcontinent and Middle East — a CBC is the first step in identifying both conditions. UAE visa medical requirements for domestic workers and certain job categories mandate a CBC as part of the entry screening.
Related Blood Tests Tests
CBC Test — FAQ
How much does a CBC test cost in the UAE?
Complete Blood Count (CBC) pricing varies by laboratory. Contact labs directly for current pricing.
Do I need to fast before a CBC test?
No, fasting is not required for a Complete Blood Count (CBC). You can have the test at any time of day without dietary restrictions.
How long does it take to get CBC results?
Complete Blood Count (CBC) results are typically available within 6 hours. Walk-in labs may provide results faster than home collection services. Most labs in the UAE deliver results digitally via email or app within 24 hours.
Why is CBC testing important?
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The most commonly ordered blood test worldwide. Common reasons to order this test include: Routine check-up, Fatigue, Infection screening, Anemia detection. Regular testing helps detect conditions early when they are most treatable.
Disclaimer: Prices for Complete Blood Count (CBC) are indicative and based on publicly available data from UAE diagnostic laboratories. Actual prices may vary by branch, insurance coverage, and current promotions. The medical information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified physician to determine if this test is appropriate for your condition and to interpret your results. Last verified March 2026.