M42, a global health leader leveraging artificial intelligence, technology, and genomics, has partnered with the Medical Tourism Association (MTA) and Mastercard to enhance international access to the UAE’s healthcare system. Leading M42 facilities will now feature on MTA’s flagship platform, Better by MTA, developed in collaboration with Mastercard to simplify travel, payments, and care planning for patients seeking treatment in the UAE.

With global medical tourism demand rising, the UAE is strengthening its position as a destination for advanced healthcare. Ranked ninth globally in the Medical Tourism Index, Abu Dhabi offers streamlined access to M42’s network, including Healthpoint and Imperial College London Diabetes & Endocrine Centre, and expands the country’s reputation for medical innovation.

Dr Ali Anees, chief operating officer of M42’s global patient care platform in the UAE and Bahrain, said the partnership removes barriers to seamless care: “This collaboration means patients all over the world can avail high quality healthcare, manage payments securely, and access one of the UAE’s top clinical teams, all in one place. Our goal at M42 is to remove barriers to world-class healthcare and deliver a smooth patient experience.”

The Better by MTA platform is designed to foster patient confidence by addressing common cross-border healthcare challenges, including financial complexity and logistical concerns. Currently connecting around 1.3 million global healthcare seekers annually, the platform is expected to serve 2 to 3 million by the end of 2025.

Gina Petersen-Skryme, country manager, UAE & Oman at Mastercard, highlighted the platform’s role in making international healthcare more accessible: “Together with the Medical Tourism Association and M42, we’re advancing a more seamless and secure payment experience—one that fosters trust and confidence among millions of international patients seeking world-class care in the UAE.”

Strategically located, with one-third of the world’s population within four hours and two-thirds within eight hours, the UAE is uniquely positioned to serve global patients. M42’s network spans more than 480 healthcare facilities across 26 countries, serving over 15 million patients each year and offering services from renal care and chronic disease management to diagnostics, women’s and children’s health, specialty surgery, and long-term care.