An MRI answers a question. First, get the question right.
We refer for MRI at accredited imaging centres across Dubai and then interpret the report with you — so you are not left holding a radiology PDF full of findings nobody has put in context.
Reasons we refer for MRI.
Back or neck pain with nerve signs
Pain radiating into an arm or leg, numbness or weakness — MRI shows disc, nerve root and cord detail no other scan can.
Knee, shoulder or hip injury
Suspected meniscus, ligament, labral or rotator-cuff tears after an injury that has not settled with conservative treatment.
Persistent headache with red flags
New headache pattern, waking headaches, visual change or neurological signs warrant brain imaging rather than more painkillers.
Unexplained soft-tissue mass
Where ultrasound has found something indeterminate, MRI characterises it before any biopsy or surgical opinion.
Abdominal or pelvic follow-up
MRI clarifies liver, pancreatic, prostate and gynaecological findings picked up on ultrasound or CT.
Sports and overuse injuries
Stress fractures and tendon injuries that X-ray misses often show clearly on MRI, which changes the rehab timeline.
MRI is extraordinarily sensitive, and that is its weakness as well as its strength. Scan enough healthy backs and you will find disc bulges in people with no pain. An unnecessary scan often creates a diagnosis to worry about rather than a problem to treat, so we scan when the result would change what we do — and say so plainly when it would not.
Before or after the scan.
Cost, safety and choosing the right scan.
Do I need a referral for an MRI in Dubai?+
Yes in practice. Accredited imaging centres require a doctor's request form naming the body part and the clinical question, and insurers that reimburse will ask for the same letter. A GP consultation at Aafiyah Care (AED 400) produces both.
Does Aafiyah Care have an MRI scanner?+
No. We are a GP-led primary care clinic in Business Bay. We assess you, decide whether MRI is the right scan, refer you to an accredited radiology partner, and then go through the report with you.
How much does an MRI cost in Dubai?+
Imaging centres in Dubai typically charge from around AED 1,200 to AED 2,500 per region for a standard MRI, more with contrast or for multiple regions. That is paid to the imaging centre; our consultation and interpretation are separate.
MRI or ultrasound — which do I need?+
Ultrasound is first-line for gallbladder, kidneys, pelvis, thyroid, testes and superficial lumps, and it is cheaper and faster. MRI is for spine and disc problems, knee and shoulder internal derangement, brain and nerve symptoms, and soft-tissue detail ultrasound cannot resolve. A GP picks based on the question, not the price.
How long does an MRI take and is it uncomfortable?+
A single region takes roughly 20–45 minutes. It is loud but painless, and you must stay still. Tell us in advance about claustrophobia, pregnancy, a pacemaker, cochlear implant, metal fragments or surgical clips — some of these rule MRI out and change the plan.
How quickly do I get the result?+
Reports from partner centres are usually issued within 24–72 hours. Your GP reviews the report and calls you to explain it, then arranges physiotherapy, medication, a specialist referral or reassurance as appropriate.
Can I claim an MRI back on insurance?+
We are not insurance-based and do not bill insurers directly. We issue a fully coded invoice and the referral letter, which most insurers accept for reimbursement. Confirm your policy's pre-approval rules before the scan — MRI often needs prior authorisation.
Imaging is not the route for an emergency. With chest pain, severe breathlessness, sudden weakness, loss of bladder control or severe headache of sudden onset, call 998 or attend the nearest emergency department.
Healthcare should feel simple.
Send an enquiry and our team will come back to you — no waiting rooms, no run-around.
Catch issues early in Dubai — doctor-led screening, bloods & longevity baseline.
Same-day appointments across Dubai and neighbouring communities. Home or clinic visits. WhatsApp us — the message is pre-filled with your area so our team can route you to the closest available slot.
Flagship clinic: Unit G09, Churchill Executive Towers, Business Bay · Home visits 24/7.
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