How do I know I’m pregnant?
This is probably one of the most searched questions on Google! You’re probably feeling back pains, soreness, exhaustion, cramping, nausea, cravings, bloating and mood swings.
But apart from the physical changes, you may also notice some changes to your bank account… So how much does it cost to have a baby in the UAE? In short – a lot.
Pregnancy costs
The total costs of your pregnancy will vary according to the antenatal package you select. It will also depend on the hospital you choose – private or government.
Without health insurance coverage for pregnancy, you can expect costs for antenatal care to start at AED 2,000 and go up to AED 6,000. This includes consultations, special organ scans, clothes and supplements.
To reduce expenses, it’s best to get insured. However, be sure to read all the fine print for your maternity cover, since insurance providers do not always cover all examinations and procedures.
[Compare health insurance in the UAE | Related: Maternity cover: Questions to ask before you choose your health insurance]
Delivery cost
Packages for delivery in the UAE start at AED 2,000 and can go up to AED 35,000. However, the cost will depend yet again on the hospital you choose and whether you are having a natural birth or a Cesarian (C-section).
The procedure you select, the kind of room you take and the total number number of days you stay will impact the costs significantly. Also induced birth, twin deliveries or any other complications bring additional charges.
It’s a good idea to do as much research and reading as possible about your insurance’s maternity coverage. Make sure you are familiar with all the services and procedures that are covered, to avoid any surprises later.
Post-pregnancy costs
After you are done paying for the antenatal care and the delivery fees, the post-pregnancy costs begin. Basic shopping needs start at AED 9,000.
Yes, having a baby in the UAE is an expensive affair. Here is a list of things you will require in the first six months of bringing your little bundle of joy home.
The baby shopping list
| Min (AED) | Max (AED) | Average AED | |
| Baby cot | 455 | 1,575 | 1,015 |
| Sheets x3 | 96 | 156 | 126 |
| Blankets x 2 | 54 | 458 | 256 |
| Car seat | 149 | 1,620 | 885 |
| Pushchair | 99 | 2,185 | 1,142 |
| Changing tables | 370 | 390 | 380 |
| Baby bottle (12 bottles) | 120 | 828 | 474 |
| Milk powder (~ 26 boxes) | 780 | 2,886 | 1,833 |
| Clothes (sets, nightwear, bibs, & burp clothes) | 200 | 680 | 440 |
| Nappies (for 6 months) | 390 | 1,976 | 1,183 |
| Baby products (bath, shampoo, oil, powder etc) | 60 | 187 | 124 |
| Moses basket | 220 | 560 | 390 |
| Baby monitor | 99 | 999 | 549 |
| Sterilizer | 42 | 159 | 101 |
| Total | 3,134 | 14,659 | 8,897 |
Sources: LandmarkShops.com, GeantOnline.ae
Also, for parents who live in two-story villas or own two cars , you may need two sets each of big-ticket items like car seats and changing tables. And, if you thought the expenses ended there – there’s also toys, accessories, and nanny costs that we have not taken into account yet.
Being financially prepared is an absolute must for this, the most fulfilling experience of your life.