Knee Replacement (Total) vs Hip Replacement (Total) Cost in Abu Dhabi

In Abu Dhabi, a knee replacement (total) typically costs AED 60,000 while a hip replacement (total) costs AED 70,000 — making knee replacement (total) AED 10,000 cheaper (14% less). Knee Replacement (Total) ranges from AED 35,000 to AED 90,000, and Hip Replacement (Total) from AED 40,000 to AED 110,000. Both are major joint replacement surgeries that replace damaged joint surfaces with prosthetic components. Healthcare in Abu Dhabi is regulated by the Department of Health Abu Dhabi (DOH). Data as of March 2026.

Side-by-Side Comparison in Abu Dhabi

Knee Replacement (Total)

Price Range (Abu Dhabi)AED 35,000AED 90,000
Typical CostAED 60,000
Duration1–2 hours
Recovery6–12 weeks (walking), 3–6 months (full recovery)
Anaesthesiageneral
Settinginpatient
InsuranceTypically Covered

Hip Replacement (Total)

Price Range (Abu Dhabi)AED 40,000AED 110,000
Typical CostAED 70,000
Duration1–2 hours
Recovery6–12 weeks (walking), 3–6 months (full recovery)
Anaesthesiageneral
Settinginpatient
InsuranceTypically Covered

Key Differences

CategoryKnee Replacement (Total)Hip Replacement (Total)
Cost in Abu DhabiAED 60,000AED 70,000
Joint ReplacedKnee joint — femur, tibia, and sometimes patella surfacesHip joint — femoral head and acetabulum (socket)
Common CauseOsteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumaOsteoarthritis, avascular necrosis, hip fracture
Surgery Duration1.5–2.5 hours1–2 hours
Hospital Stay3–5 days2–4 days
Full Recovery3–6 months; full range of motion takes longer3–6 months; most patients walk with a cane by 4–6 weeks

Compare Abu Dhabi vs Other Cities

CityKnee Replacement (Total)Hip Replacement (Total)
Abu Dhabi (this city)
AED 60,000AED 70,000
Dubai
AED 65,000AED 75,000Compare
Sharjah
AED 50,000AED 55,000Compare
Ajman
AED 45,000AED 52,000Compare
Ras Al Khaimah
AED 48,000AED 54,000Compare
Fujairah
AED 46,000AED 52,000Compare
Umm Al Quwain
AED 44,000AED 50,000Compare
Al Ain
AED 50,000AED 58,000Compare

When to Choose Knee Replacement (Total)

  • You have severe knee arthritis that limits walking, stair climbing, or daily activities
  • Non-surgical treatments (medication, injections, PT) have failed
  • X-rays show significant bone-on-bone contact in the knee
  • Knee pain disrupts sleep and daily quality of life

When to Choose Hip Replacement (Total)

  • You have severe hip arthritis or avascular necrosis causing groin or thigh pain
  • Hip pain limits walking, sitting, or getting dressed
  • You have suffered a displaced hip fracture (emergency indication)
  • Non-surgical treatments have not provided adequate relief

Insurance Coverage in Abu Dhabi

Knee Replacement (Total)

Typically Covered

Total knee replacement is covered by most enhanced and premium plans when medically necessary. Pre-authorisation required. Basic plans may have annual limits that do not fully cover the procedure. Implant type may affect coverage — standard implants are typically covered; premium implants may incur an upgrade fee.

Hip Replacement (Total)

Typically Covered

Covered by enhanced and premium plans when medically necessary. Pre-authorisation required. Annual limits may apply. Ceramic-on-ceramic implants may incur additional cost over the standard covered option.

Knee Replacement (Total) vs Hip Replacement (Total) in Abu Dhabi — FAQ

Disclaimer: All prices shown are indicative ranges for Abu Dhabi based on the DOH Mandatory Tariff (Shafafiya) methodology, DHA DRG parameters, and market-observed data as of March 2026. Actual costs vary by facility, doctor, clinical complexity, and insurance plan. This comparison is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider in Abu Dhabi to determine which procedure is appropriate. Obtain a personalised quote before proceeding.