In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology in which an egg is fertilized by sperm outside the body in vitro. The process involves monitoring and stimulating a woman's ovulatory process, removing an ovum or ova from the woman's ovaries, and letting sperm fertilize them in a liquid in a laboratory. The fertilized egg (zygote) is then transferred to the patient's uterus with the intention of establishing a successful pregnancy.

The IVF process includes various steps and treatment processes that can be classified into four categories: medication, surgical procedures, assisted reproductive technology (ART), and others.

Financial considerations significantly influence the number of cycles, as IVF is expensive, and insurance coverage often limits the number of covered cycles. In some cases, all embryos from a cycle are frozen for later use, necessitating additional cycles for transfer.

Due to coverage for Thiqa patients in Abu Dhabi Emirate, many key fertility centers have their foothold in the Emirates. The increasing number of branches and the expansion of the organized sector within the IVF market signifies that the region’s population is seeing increased awareness and increased income to afford the services.

The IVF market in the UAE is poised for significant growth due to several factors:

1. Declining fertility rates across the country
2. Increasing awareness and acceptance of fertility treatments
3. Growing expatriate population seeking high-quality healthcare
4. Advancements in IVF technology improving success rates

The increasing demand for IVF treatments, coupled with the UAE's ambition to become a medical tourism hub, suggests substantial scope for growth in the infertility treatment sector. As societal norms continue to evolve and the population becomes more health-conscious, the demand for advanced fertility treatments is likely to rise, presenting ample opportunities for market expansion and innovative advancements within the UAE's IVF landscape.

JLL Healthcare is well-poised to advise clients on the IVF market in the region leveraging our extensive experience in this segment and in-depth understanding of the patient pathways and referral pattern. We provide comprehensive services including market assessment, growth strategy, commercial, technical and operational due diligence, location assessment, business planning and feasibility studies to advise clients in this dynamic market environment.