Restoring Vision with Precision and Global Expertise in Ophthalmology
Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE — in collaboration with Moorfields London, the world’s leading eye care institution — offers advanced corneal transplant surgery (keratoplasty) to restore vision affected by injury, disease, or degeneration of the cornea. With state-of-the-art facilities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Moorfields provides world-class surgical precision, innovative techniques such as DALK, DMEK, and PK, and personalized patient care trusted by thousands worldwide.
🌟 What Is a Corneal Transplant?
A corneal transplant (keratoplasty) is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or diseased cornea with healthy donor tissue.
The cornea — the clear, dome-shaped surface covering the front of the eye — is essential for focusing light and providing clear vision. When the cornea becomes cloudy or distorted due to conditions like keratoconus, scarring, or corneal edema, a transplant may be required to restore vision.
At Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE, corneal transplantation is performed by fellowship-trained corneal specialists using the most advanced surgical methods, tailored to each patient’s unique condition.
🔍 Types of Corneal Transplant Procedures
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK)
This partial-thickness procedure removes the front layers of the cornea while preserving the inner endothelial layer. It’s ideal for patients whose endothelium remains healthy.
✔️ 90% of patients achieve driving-level vision.
✔️ Reduced risk of graft rejection (under 10%).
✔️ Recovery period: up to 18 months.
✔️ May require glasses or contact lenses for optimal results.
Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK & DMEK)
This modern, minimally invasive technique replaces only the inner corneal layer.
✔️ Faster recovery — full results within 6 months.
✔️ No sutures required, reducing astigmatism and inflammation.
✔️ Minimal complications with easier recovery under topical anesthesia.
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)
A full-thickness corneal transplant where all layers of the cornea are replaced.
✔️ Suitable for severe or full-depth corneal damage.
✔️ 75% achieve driving vision; may need glasses or secondary surgery.
✔️ Recovery may take up to 18 months with continuous monitoring.
All procedures are performed under local or general anesthesia and take approximately one hour. Most patients return home the same day.
🦷 Who Is a Good Candidate?
Candidates are those whose corneal disease no longer responds to glasses, contacts, or medications.
✔️ Individuals with corneal scarring, keratoconus, or Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy.
✔️ Patients with corneal edema or swelling unresponsive to medication.
✔️ Those who experienced corneal injury or infection leading to opacity.
✔️ Individuals suffering from vision loss due to congenital or degenerative corneal disease.
✔️ Patients seeking improved visual clarity and comfort after failed previous grafts.
✔️Most candidates for corneal transplant surgery have corneal damage that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
A thorough evaluation by Moorfields’ specialists determines which type of transplant—DALK, DMEK, or PK—is most appropriate. Patients should be in stable overall health and free from active infections to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal surgical outcomes.
🩺 Consultation & Preparation
Before surgery, Moorfields specialists perform additional diagnostic tests to measure corneal thickness and assess overall eye health. Patients receive full guidance on medication adjustments, preoperative hygiene, and expectations for postoperative care.
✔️ Comprehensive eye examination and corneal topography to determine eligibility.
✔️ Detailed medical history and imaging to identify the best surgical approach (DALK, DMEK, or PK).
✔️ Preoperative eye drops or antibiotics prescribed to minimize infection risk.
✔️ Personalized surgical plan, anesthesia choice, and aftercare schedule explained in detail.
✔️ Patients are advised to arrange transportation home post-surgery and follow fasting guidelines before anesthesia.
The consultation also includes a discussion about visual rehabilitation timelines and the long-term importance of follow-up visits for maintaining graft health.
Recovery & Aftercare
Full recovery may take several months to a year, depending on the type of graft performed. During this time, patients should avoid heavy lifting, eye rubbing, or exposure to contaminated water.
✔️ Most patients return to daily activities within 1–2 weeks, with gradual vision improvement.
✔️ Steroid eye drops are used for up to one year to prevent rejection.
✔️ Regular check-ups at Moorfields ensure proper healing and graft stability.
✔️ Temporary sensitivity, redness, or mild pain are normal and managed with medication.
✔️ Long-term results include clearer vision, improved comfort, and restored eye symmetry.
✔️ Rejection symptoms such as redness, pain, or vision loss should be reported immediately for early treatment.
Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE provides ongoing follow-up and personalized aftercare, ensuring that vision continues to improve while minimizing the risk of complications. With consistent care, most patients enjoy lasting vision restoration and long-term comfort.
🌍 Why Choose Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE?
✔️ Over 200 years of Moorfields London heritage in ophthalmology.
✔️ UK- and internationally trained corneal surgeons with advanced fellowship expertise.
✔️ Cutting-edge DALK, DMEK, and PK technologies ensuring precision and safety.
✔️ Minimally invasive techniques with faster healing and superior visual outcomes.
✔️ Personalized treatment plans supported by state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging.
✔️ Dedicated post-transplant care programs and long-term follow-ups.
✔️ Collaborative research with Moorfields London advancing global corneal transplant standards.
✔️ Multilingual staff offering compassionate international patient coordination.
✔️ Advanced facilities in Dubai Healthcare City and Abu Dhabi, easily accessible to global patients.
✔️ Trusted by patients from 90+ countries for vision restoration and life-changing results
⭐ Patient Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I had my corneal transplant at Moorfields Dubai, and my vision improved beyond what I imagined. The staff were caring and professional from day one.” — Ahmed R., UAE
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “After years of blurred vision from keratoconus, Moorfields’ corneal team gave me back my clarity and confidence. Truly world-class care.” — Sarah M., UK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The doctors explained every step of the surgery. I felt completely safe in their hands. My recovery was smooth, and my vision is clear again.” — James P., Canada
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I travelled from Oman for a DMEK procedure. The level of expertise and technology here is unmatched in the region.” — Huda A., Oman
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The team followed up even months after my surgery. It’s comforting to know I’m in the best hands.” — Khalid S., Saudi Arabia
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Moorfields Abu Dhabi handled my corneal graft perfectly. I’m now driving again and so grateful to the doctors.” — Lina D., Lebanon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “They combine the best of London’s Moorfields expertise with UAE’s hospitality. I felt at home.” — Ricardo V., Brazil
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The surgeon and nurses were incredible. My vision improved steadily, and I was fully supported through recovery.” — Nadia F., Egypt
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “My child had microphthalmia. The pediatric ophthalmology team were gentle, skilled, and life-changing.” — Anna L., Germany
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “From consultation to aftercare, the entire process was seamless and compassionate.” — Mohammed K., UAE
A Legacy of Excellence from London to the United Arab Emirates
Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai and Abu Dhabi are world-class centers of ophthalmic excellence, proudly affiliated with Moorfields Eye Hospital London — the world’s oldest and one of the largest institutions dedicated to eye care, teaching, and research.
Building on over two centuries of British heritage and expertise, Moorfields UAE offers cutting-edge diagnostics, surgical precision, and compassionate patient care, bringing internationally recognized ophthalmology standards to the heart of the Middle East.
Who We Are
Founded as extensions of the prestigious Moorfields Eye Hospital London, Moorfields Eye Hospitals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi provide the highest level of eye care across all ophthalmic subspecialties.
Each branch combines state-of-the-art facilities, internationally trained ophthalmologists, and advanced technology to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions — from cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal disorders to complex pediatric and neuro-ophthalmic diseases.
Their mission is to operate to the highest clinical standards, mirroring their London counterpart, and to deliver the same trusted Moorfields quality of care within the UAE.
🌍International Patient Services
Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE welcomes patients from over 90 countries every year, offering dedicated support through its International Patient Department.
Services include:
✔️ Second medical opinions with personalized treatment plans from Moorfields specialists
✔️ Transparent cost estimates and package pricing
✔️ Multilingual staff and certified medical interpreters
✔️ Fast-track appointment scheduling and specialist consultations
✔️ Assistance with visas, travel, and accommodation
✔️ VIP airport transfers and concierge coordination
✔️ Post-treatment follow-up and medical reporting
Moorfields provides a seamless patient journey — from initial inquiry to full recovery — ensuring comfort, safety, and clarity every step of the way.
🌐 Why Moorfields Eye Hospital?
Mission:
To operate at the highest international clinical standards, provide comprehensive eye care across all age groups, advance ophthalmic research and education, and attract world-class specialists to the UAE.
Vision:
To be recognized as the leading eye hospital in the Middle East, offering exceptional, compassionate, and innovative eye care rooted in Moorfields’ global legacy.
Core Values:
✅ Professional – Upholding the rigorous Moorfields clinical and ethical standards.
✅ Friendly – Providing warmth, empathy, and reassurance to every patient.
✅ Helpful – Anticipating patient needs and exceeding expectations.
✅ Safe – Prioritizing patient safety and quality at all levels.
✅ Calm – Ensuring a stress-free, comforting clinical environment.
✅ Positive & Flexible – Embracing teamwork, adaptability, and continuous improvement.
🏅Accreditations & Standards
Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE delivers comprehensive adult and pediatric ophthalmology services, including:
✔️ Cataract Surgery – Advanced lens replacement and laser-assisted cataract procedures.
✔️ Glaucoma Management – Innovative pressure-control treatments for vision preservation.
✔️ Retina & Vitreous Services – Medical and surgical management of retinal diseases.
✔️ Cornea & Refractive Surgery – LASIK, PRK, and corneal transplants with precision technology.
✔️ Pediatric Ophthalmology – Specialized eye care for children including strabismus and amblyopia.
✔️ Oculoplastic & Reconstructive Surgery – Cosmetic and functional eyelid and orbital procedures.
✔️ Neuro-Ophthalmology – Diagnosis and treatment of vision problems linked to neurological disorders.
✔️ Genetic Eye Disease & Ocular Oncology Services – Early detection and personalized management.
Each department integrates clinical excellence, patient education, and research collaboration with Moorfields London.
🛬 A Global Eye Care Destination
Located in Dubai Healthcare City and Abu Dhabi, Moorfields UAE is easily accessible for international travelers, with nearby 5-star hotels such as Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk and Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights, and airline partners Emirates and Fly Dubai offering extensive global connections.
Patients from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia choose Moorfields UAE for its trusted British medical heritage, advanced technology, and exceptional continuity of care.
🌐 Why Choose Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE
✔️ Backed by the heritage and expertise of Moorfields Eye Hospital London
✔️ The first international branch of a globally renowned eye care institution
✔️ Highly qualified consultants trained in the UK and Europe
✔️ Comprehensive ophthalmic services for adults and children
✔️ State-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical technology
✔️ Multilingual, patient-focused staff providing personalized care
✔️ Commitment to education and research, fostering innovation in the region
✔️ Strategic locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for easy global access
Why Choose Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE
- Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE brings over 200 years of ophthalmic excellence from London to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, offering patients world-class care in one of the region’s leading medical destinations.
- Located in Dubai Health Care City and Marina Village Abu Dhabi, both branches are easily accessible from major international airports, making travel simple and stress-free for international patients.
- Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE is affiliated with Moorfields Eye Hospital London, and follows Joint Commission International (JCI) standards — ensuring the highest levels of patient safety and medical quality.
- The hospital’s team includes fellowship-trained ophthalmologists from the UK and other leading global institutions, specializing in every area of eye care — from complex retinal surgery to pediatric ophthalmology.
- Communication is seamless. The hospital’s staff speak English, Arabic, and multiple international languages, ensuring comfort and clarity for every patient.
- Each patient receives a tailored treatment plan, often beginning with a virtual consultation, followed by seamless coordination of appointments, procedures, and recovery.
- Moorfields offers comprehensive eye care under one roof — including cataract, glaucoma, corneal, retina, oculoplastic, and refractive surgery, as well as pediatric eye care and vision correction.
- The hospital provides concierge-style support for international patients — helping arrange travel, accommodation, airport transfers, and post-treatment follow-up for a smooth medical journey.
- Moorfields facilities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are designed for patient comfort, with state-of-the-art technology, strict hygiene standards, and private, welcoming environments.
- Patients can combine their medical visit with a memorable trip. The UAE offers world-class hotels, shopping, beaches, desert adventures, and cultural experiences — all within one of the safest and most modern countries in the world.
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