Liver Function Test (LFT) — Price Comparison in the UAE
Panel measuring ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, bilirubin, albumin, and total protein to assess liver health.
Turnaround
6 hours
Sample
Blood sample (venipuncture)
Common Reasons to Order
Understanding Your LFT Results
What This Test Measures
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are a panel of blood tests that assess different aspects of liver health. The key parameters are: ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) — enzymes released into the blood when liver cells are damaged; ALP (alkaline phosphatase) and GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase) — enzymes elevated in cholestatic (bile-flow obstructive) conditions; bilirubin (total and direct) — the yellow pigment derived from haemoglobin breakdown, elevated in jaundice; and albumin and total protein — markers of the liver's synthetic function, reduced in chronic liver disease.
Who Should Get This Test
Recommended For
LFTs are ordered for anyone with jaundice (yellow skin or eyes), right upper abdominal pain, unexplained fatigue, nausea, or dark urine. They are routinely checked before starting medications known to be hepatotoxic (statins, antifungals, anti-tuberculosis drugs, paracetamol at high doses) and periodically while on these drugs. People with alcohol use disorder, obesity, metabolic syndrome, or a history of hepatitis B or C infection require regular LFT monitoring.
In the UAE Context
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is highly prevalent in the UAE, with studies estimating it affects 25–35% of the adult population — driven by the high rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes. NAFLD frequently presents with mildly elevated ALT and AST, and is often discovered incidentally on an LFT panel ordered for another reason. Hepatitis B vaccination is mandatory in the UAE childhood immunisation schedule, but many adult expats who grew up before vaccination programmes may be Hepatitis B carriers — LFTs plus a Hepatitis B surface antigen test are recommended for this group.
Related Liver Function Tests
LFT Test — FAQ
How much does a LFT test cost in the UAE?
Liver Function Test (LFT) pricing varies by laboratory. Contact labs directly for current pricing.
Do I need to fast before a LFT test?
No, fasting is not required for a Liver Function Test (LFT). You can have the test at any time of day without dietary restrictions.
How long does it take to get LFT results?
Liver Function Test (LFT) 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 LFT testing important?
Panel measuring ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, bilirubin, albumin, and total protein to assess liver health. Common reasons to order this test include: Liver health check, Medication monitoring, Alcohol use, Fatty liver. Regular testing helps detect conditions early when they are most treatable.
Disclaimer: Prices for Liver Function Test (LFT) 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.