Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Mohanad Diab, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Mediclinic Abu Dhabi.
How to Choose an Oncologist in Abu Dhabi
Being diagnosed with cancer is overwhelming. Choosing an oncologist you can work with matters, and Abu Dhabi has a wide range of accredited cancer services to consider.
About Dr. Mohanad Diab
Dr. Mohanad Diab is a Consultant Medical Oncologist in Abu Dhabi. He trained at Karolinska Institute in Sweden and has over 18 years of clinical experience across four countries (Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and the UAE). As Director of Oncology Services at Mediclinic Abu Dhabi, he has built and led three oncology departments from the ground up, treated over 3,000 patients, and introduced European-standard chemotherapy protocols to the UAE.
Cancer Treatment Centres in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has several cancer treatment facilities:
Mediclinic Abu Dhabi: — Home to Dr. Mohanad Diab's oncology department. Offers chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and multidisciplinary tumor board reviews. JCI-accredited with European treatment protocols.Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi: — A branch of the US hospital group with comprehensive cancer services.Burjeel Medical City: — Large oncology center with radiation therapy capabilities.Tawam Hospital (Al Ain): — Government hospital with a dedicated oncology wing.How Do I Find the Right Oncologist in Abu Dhabi?
When choosing a cancer doctor, look for these critical factors:
1. Training and Credentials
Where did they train?: International training brings exposure to established treatment standards. Dr. Diab trained at Karolinska Institute (Sweden) and Radiumhemmet, the cancer centre of Karolinska University Hospital in Stockholm.Board certification: in medical oncology is essential.2. Experience and Specialization
Years of practice: — Look for 10+ years of experience. Dr. Diab has 18+ years.Cancer-specific expertise: — Does the doctor specialize in your type of cancer?Volume of cases: — Has the doctor treated many patients with your specific condition?3. Treatment Approach
Multidisciplinary tumor board: — Ask whether every case is presented to a team of specialists (surgeons, pathologists, radiologists) for collaborative treatment planning. Dr. Diab holds weekly tumour board reviews.Latest protocols: — Look for ESMO (European) or NCCN (American) guideline adherence.Personalized medicine: — Molecular profiling and genetic testing for targeted therapy.4. Communication and Accessibility
Language: — Can you communicate comfortably? Dr. Diab speaks 5 languages (Arabic, English, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish).Time with patients: — Does the doctor explain everything clearly?24/7 access: — Can you reach the team between appointments for urgent concerns?Questions to Ask Your Oncologist
What is my exact diagnosis and stage?What treatment options are available for my specific cancer?What are the expected outcomes and survival rates?How many patients with my type of cancer have you treated?Do you have a multidisciplinary tumor board?What is the treatment timeline?Will my insurance (Thiqa/Daman) cover the treatment?What side effects should I expect?Cancer Treatment Costs in Abu Dhabi
Thiqa insurance: — Full coverage for UAE nationals at approved facilitiesDaman: — Covers chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and most cancer treatmentsPrivate insurance: — Most plans cover oncology consultations (AED 500-1,500) and treatmentFinancial counseling: available at Mediclinic Abu DhabiDr. Mohanad Diab at a Glance
| Factor | Dr. Mohanad Diab |
|--------|-----------------|
| Training | Karolinska Institute, Sweden |
| BMT Training | Radiumhemmet, Stockholm |
| Experience | 18+ years across 4 countries |
| Languages | 5 (Arabic, English, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish) |
| Departments Built | 3 oncology departments from scratch |
| Patients Treated | 3,000+ |
| Tumor Board | Weekly multidisciplinary reviews |
| Protocols | ESMO European guidelines |
What European Oncology Training Emphasises
European oncology training, particularly in Scandinavian institutions, emphasises:
Evidence-based medicine with rigorous clinical trialsPatient-centered care with focus on quality of lifeConservative, precisely-targeted treatment approachesMultidisciplinary collaboration as standard practiceDr. Diab applies these principles in his practice at Mediclinic Abu Dhabi, making European cancer care protocols available in the UAE.
Considering a consultation with an oncologist in Abu Dhabi? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Mohanad Diab at Mediclinic Abu Dhabi — Karolinska-trained, 18+ years of experience, 5 languages spoken.