Fertility market in UAE

Increasing significance of fertility services in the UAE

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology in which an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body in vitro. The process involves monitoring and stimulating a woman's ovulatory process, removing an ovum or ova from the woman's ovaries, and letting sperm fertilize them in a liquid in a laboratory. The fertilized egg (zygote) is then transferred to the patient's uterus with the intention of establishing a successful pregnancy.

The IVF process includes various steps and treatment processes that can be classified into four categories: medication, surgical procedures, assisted reproductive technology (ART), and others.

An IVF treatment typically involves one cycle, but the number of cycles a patient undergoes can vary based on individual circumstances and involves multiple stages as illustrated below.

However, many patients may have to undergo multiple cycles as the first cycle may not be successful. Doctors may recommend multiple cycles based on individual health factors. While the recommended number of cycles varies, doctors often suggest trying at least three cycles of IVF before exploring other options.

Financial considerations significantly influence the number of cycles, as IVF is expensive, and insurance coverage often limits the number of covered cycles. In some cases, all embryos from a cycle are frozen for later use, necessitating additional cycles for transfer.

Global comparison of fertility rates

Over the past decade, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has experienced a significant decline in fertility rates, mirroring global trends but at a more accelerated pace. This decline is particularly noticeable in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the Northern Emirates.

The UAE's rapid decline in fertility rates can be attributed to various factors, including increasing education levels, women's participation in the workforce, and changing societal norms.

Causes of infertility in the UAE

The rising need for IVF treatments in the UAE can be attributed to several factors:

1. Advanced maternal age: Couples in the UAE are increasingly delaying childbearing for career and educational pursuits

2. Lifestyle factors: Obesity, smoking, and stress can negatively impact fertility for both genders

3. Environmental factors: Exposure to pollutants and chemicals may contribute to reduced fertility as well as complications during pregnancy

4. Medical conditions: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and male factor infertility are becoming increasingly common in the UAE

5. Genetic factors: Consanguineous marriages may increase the risk of genetic disorders affecting fertility

Key facilities and market size

The UAE has both standalone centers and departments within hospitals that provide fertility services. There is a growing trend towards standalone specialized fertility clinics. These clinics often provide more personalized care and a wider range of fertility services. However, hospital-based centers benefit from integrated care and may be preferred for high-risk cases.

The total market in the UAE is currently estimated to be between 18,000 to 20,000 cycles of treatment.

The market is dominated by a few key players. Some of the prominent facilities include:

1. Fakih IVF

2. ART IVF Center

3. HealthPlus Fertility Center

4. Bourn Hall Fertility Centre

5. Conceive Gynecology and Fertility Hospital

6. First IVF

Driven by increasing market demand and need, the fertility services sector is becoming increasingly organized. Some of the key players in the market are expanding regionally, with some establishing multiple branches across the UAE, as shown below:

Due to coverage for Thiqa patients in Abu Dhabi Emirate, many key fertility centers have their foothold in the Emirates. The increasing number of branches and the expansion of the organized sector within the IVF market signifies that the region’s population is seeing increased awareness and increased income to afford the services.

Conclusion

The IVF market in the UAE is poised for significant growth due to several factors:

1. Declining fertility rates across the country

2. Increasing awareness and acceptance of fertility treatments

3. Growing expatriate population seeking high-quality healthcare

4. Advancements in IVF technology improving success rates

The increasing demand for IVF treatments, coupled with the UAE's ambition to become a medical tourism hub, suggests substantial scope for growth in the infertility treatment sector. As societal norms continue to evolve and the population becomes more health-conscious, the demand for advanced fertility treatments is likely to rise, presenting ample opportunities for market expansion and innovative advancements within the UAE's IVF landscape.

JLL Healthcare is well-poised to advise clients on the IVF market in the region leveraging our extensive experience in this segment and in-depth understanding of the patient pathways and referral pattern. We provide comprehensive services including market assessment, growth strategy, commercial, technical and operational due diligence, location assessment, business planning and feasibility studies to advise clients in this dynamic market environment.