Stricter audits, facility closures, and updated standards are reshaping Abu Dhabi’s healthcare system.
The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi has released its inspection and audit results for January to December 2025, highlighting stronger oversight, updated standards, and expanded community engagement aimed at improving healthcare quality and patient safety.
Rising compliance and inspection activity
During 2025, the Department conducted 4,540 licensing audit rounds across healthcare facilities. Compliance audits increased by 31% year-on-year, rising from 2,401 to 3,485, with full coverage extended to home healthcare providers.
Officials said the expansion reflects a broader regulatory scope aimed at identifying areas for improvement early and strengthening patient-centred care.
Targeted oversight across key sectors
The DoH also launched focused inspection campaigns covering medication safety, laboratory operations, operational compliance, and Emiratisation in healthcare.
While most facilities demonstrated strong adherence to standards, some small and medium-sized laboratories and select institutions were flagged for improvement, with corrective action plans already in progress.
Patient feedback and service monitoring
The department recorded 1,831 CRM cases in 2025, achieving a 98% closure rate, reinforcing transparency and accountability.
Community engagement was further strengthened through the “Voice of the Community” initiative, allowing residents to submit feedback that directly informs regulatory improvements.
7 healthcare facilities closed
Based on audit findings, authorities issued 223 corrective actions to improve compliance and safety standards, alongside enforcement measures that included the closure of seven healthcare facilities.
Leadership focus on quality and resilience
Dr Noura Al Ghaithi said the system reflects an evolving healthcare model built on monitoring, transparency, and shared accountability to ensure safe and high-quality care.
Dr Fayeza Al Yafei added that continuous improvement remains central to the sector’s approach, supported by close collaboration between regulators and healthcare providers.
Standards and future readiness
The DoH also updated its regulatory frameworks in 2025, including a new Medical Waste Management Standard aimed at strengthening safety and sustainability across healthcare facilities.
Officials called for continued compliance and active community participation, stressing that collaboration is essential to building a resilient, future-ready healthcare system.
