PET Scan Cost in United Arab Emirates

The cost of a PET scan in the UAE typically ranges from $2,000 to $18,000 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.

A PET (positron emission tomography) scan uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to show how tissues and organs are working. Most centres combine it with CT (PET-CT). In the UAE, the price depends on:

• Tracer: FDG for most cancers, or special tracers for other questions.
• Combined imaging: CT or, less often, MRI.
• Area scanned: whole body or a targeted region.
• Centre fees: and specialist reporting.

A PET scan is a single diagnostic test. A quote near the upper end of the range above is unusual, so ask what it includes.

PET scans are mainly used in cancer care, but also for some heart and brain conditions, such as checking whether heart muscle is still alive, or assessing dementia and epilepsy. The tracer depends on the question the doctor is asking.

Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust explains that PET shows how organs work, while CT shows their structure; combining the two pinpoints areas of activity. The PET-CT scan page covers preparation in more detail.

The tracer stays in the body for a few hours. CUH notes the radiation risk is very small, but close contact with pregnant women and young children should be avoided for a few hours afterwards.

Check with your insurer whether prior approval is needed for advanced imaging.