Bengaluru-based health-tech pioneer aims to double international revenue and enhance cross-border healthcare access

Indian digital health platform Practo has officially launched operations in the United Arab Emirates, offering users in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah seamless access to verified healthcare providers. This expansion is part of Practo’s vision to take Indian healthcare innovations global and deepen its footprint in the Middle East—a region where the company has already established a robust enterprise presence.

The consumer-facing platform is now live in the UAE, enabling residents to search for doctors, book appointments, and access extensive patient reviews, supporting informed healthcare decisions. With more than 31,000 doctors, 3,000 healthcare facilities, and over 50,000 monthly active users in the UAE, Practo is positioning itself as a comprehensive digital health gateway for the region.

“Our expansion into the UAE is a reflection of our long-standing commitment to making Indian healthcare innovation accessible to the world,” said Shashank ND, Co-founder and CEO of Practo. “We’ve seen an encouraging response from both patients and providers, and this marks the beginning of a broader global journey.”

Bridging Borders with Technology

The UAE launch is especially relevant at a time when cross-border healthcare needs are accelerating. Practo’s platform facilitates continuity of care for patients who travel frequently between India and the Gulf region, offering access to trusted medical providers in both geographies. This cross-functional healthcare model addresses a growing demand for connected health services that transcend national boundaries.

Moreover, the company has integrated its offering with local healthcare systems in the UAE, where insurance-linked care is a norm. Practo announced plans to display insurance data at the doctor level by the end of the month, further empowering users with decision-making tools tailored to the region’s regulatory framework.

Strategic Growth Backed by Financial Strength

The UAE expansion follows a profitable FY24, with Practo maintaining positive cash flows into FY25. The company reported a 22% increase in revenue, reaching INR 2.4 billion (approximately $28 million). Backed by this momentum, the firm aims to double its international revenue within the next three years, particularly through its consumer-oriented services.

While the enterprise software arm, Insta by Practo, has long powered operations at prominent institutions like Emirates Hospital, Life Medical Center, and Healthcare Organisation UAE, the latest move targets direct-to-patient engagement. Healthcare providers such as Sulaiman Habib Hospital and Clinics, e-Kaya Skin Clinic, Micris Dental, Smile on Dental Clinic, and Quintinha Hospitals are among its early adopters in the UAE.

“We are proud to be part of this transformative journey,” said Mohammad Ahmed, Head of Marketing at Sulaiman Habib Hospital. “The platform enhances access to quality care for our communities while fostering transparency and trust.”

Looking Ahead: Global Ambitions and IPO Readiness

Practo’s leadership sees considerable white space in developed markets, with plans to eventually enter countries like Canada and Australia, where consumer healthcare platforms are still evolving. According to Shashank, the global digital health ecosystem lacks strong doctor-marketplace solutions, a gap Practo intends to fill.

The company is also preparing for an initial public offering (IPO) in India, further signalling its long-term growth strategy, though a definitive timeline has not been disclosed.

The surge in digital health adoption—catalysed by the COVID-19 pandemic—has significantly reshaped the healthcare landscape, making digital consultations and health tech platforms increasingly mainstream. Shashank notes that while provider adoption was previously a challenge, post-pandemic, the demand has flipped, with practitioners now proactively embracing digital healthcare solutions.

Also read: Sun Pharma Bets on New Launches for FY26 Growth Amid Tax-Driven Profit Decline

Key Highlights:

• New Market: Practo launches its consumer platform in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.
• User Base: Over 50,000 active users monthly in the UAE.
• Healthcare Network: More than 31,000 doctors and 3,000 healthcare facilities onboarded.
• Revenue Growth: Achieved INR 2.4 billion in FY24, with 22% YoY growth.
• Profitability: Attained profitability in FY24, continued positive cash flow in FY25.
• Global Focus: Plans to double international revenue in 2–3 years.
• Connected Care: Supports cross-border continuity between Indian and Gulf-based users.

As Practo continues to expand its digital health footprint, its entry into the UAE marks a milestone in global health-tech evolution, offering a compelling value proposition for patients, providers, and healthcare systems alike.

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