Report

UAE magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems market is projected to witness a CAGR of 6.68% during the forecast period 2024-2031, growing from USD 60.60 million in 2023 to USD 101.64 million in 2031. Technological advancements and growing adoption of advanced multimodal imaging technologies are the key factors fueling the market growth in the near future.
With the aid of strong magnets, radio waves, and a computer, MRI produces finely detailed pictures of the body's internal organs. MRI uses controlled manipulation of the magnetic field and radiofrequency pulses to stimulate particular tissue types and spatially localize the signals selectively. This procedure makes it possible to produce intricate cross-sectional pictures of the body.
The need for diagnostic imaging is increasing due to the aging population, and MRI is a crucial modality for various age-related diseases, such as musculoskeletal illnesses and neurological disorders. The market is growing in the UAE region because of continuous improvements in MRI technology, which include quicker scanning times, better image resolution, and stronger field strengths. Healthcare providers feel compelled to modernize their systems to deliver cutting-edge diagnostic services. MRI is a useful tool for healthcare professionals due to its adaptability in a range of clinical applications, such as brain imaging, cardiovascular research, and musculoskeletal assessments. MRI's acceptance and industry growth are further aided by its application in research. The need for better imaging technology is fuelled by rising healthcare literacy and patient expectations of prompt, accurate diagnosis. Patients nowadays actively look for institutions that provide MRIs and other cutting-edge, superior diagnostic services. Promotional and motivational events have also occurred in the region in order to promote awareness. For example, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) launched a three-year awareness campaign in 2023 to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention of both communicable and non-communicable diseases due to which people often started opting for MRIs.
Rising Demand for Advanced Technology Drives Market Growth
Greater field strengths in MRI systems result from magnet technology advancements. Greater Tesla (T) strengths, such as 3T and 7T, produce greater signal-to-noise ratios, which enhance image resolution and improve diagnostic precision. Faster capturing of pictures is made possible by parallel imaging techniques, which shortens scan durations, increases imaging efficiency, and makes patients more comfortable. The newly introduced MRI systems feature multi-channel coil arrays, which improve signal reception and image quality and make it possible to execute parallel imaging.
Moreover, brain activity is mapped using functional MRI (fMRI), which measures variations in blood flow. It is useful for spotting anomalies and researching about how the brain works. This technology is used in both clinical and scientific contexts. Dynamic imaging during some processes, such as cardiac or musculoskeletal motions, is made possible by real-time MRI. Real-time organ function studies, surgical guiding, and interventional therapies can all benefit from these capabilities. Three-dimensional imaging and isotropic resolution make high-quality images in all spatial dimensions possible. Advancements in MRI technologies and the increasing adoption of digital health technologies in the region have created more opportunities for global players. Thus, global leaders are expanding their presence in the UAE to grab the elevating market opportunities.
For instance, in 2024, GE HealthCare Technologies Inc. introduced around 19 artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning systems and devices catering to imaging (including MRI) and patient care solutions at the Arab Health Conference.
Growing Burden of Chronic Diseases Propelling the Market Growth
The UAE MRI systems market has grown significantly due to rising rates of cancer and other chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions. The UAE population's changing lifestyles, which include a tendency towards unhealthy diets, excessive alcohol and tobacco use, inactivity, and obesity, are responsible for the rise in cancer cases. Therefore, the high rate of cancer has highlighted how important it is to have cutting-edge imaging technology in order to enable precise diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning. Apart from cancer, the prevalence of other chronic illnesses like diabetes has also increased significantly in the last few years. Therefore, in the foreseeable future, with rising incidences of diabetes, there will be an increase in the complications associated with the disease, such as cardiovascular diseases. This is expected to fuel the need for imaging techniques, which are anticipated to have a favorable effect on the market in the upcoming years. These techniques include cardiac MRI, cardiac CT imaging, nuclear cardiac stress testing, and chest X-ray, leading toward market growth in the region. For example, a study published by the Global Cancer Observatory in 2022 estimated that 5,526 new cancer cases were reported in UAE, whereas cancer cases in 5 years were estimated to be around 20,053.
Collaborative Ventures Paving the Way for Market Growth
Manufacturers operating in the UAE MRI systems market have been implementing organic as well as inorganic strategies, such as collaborations, partnerships, and new product launches. These programs open doors for pooling resources, creating novel solutions, and exchanging information. For example, in 2022, United Imaging and King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC) joined forces to conduct clinical applications research, share academic knowledge, and educate personnel to progress in the field of molecular imaging and cancer and improve healthcare delivery in the area. These cooperative methods tackle healthcare issues and set up the sector for long-term expansion and innovation. Due to increased joint efforts to increase diagnostic imaging solution adoption, like access to training programs and high-quality equipment, market expansion is expected in the coming years.
Gastroenterology Segment Dominates Magnetic Resonance Imaging Market
The UAE MRI systems market is seeing a notable increase in the relevance of gastrointestinal applications. This has mainly been linked to the increase in cases of gall bladder and stomach ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome, coeliac disease, and stones. As a result, in the upcoming years, the gastroenterology segment in the UAE Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) systems market will likely continue to dominate due to the rise in abdominal disorders. For instance, in the International Congress of Gastrointestinal Cancers held by the Qatar Cancer Society (QCS) in December 2023, the Ministry of Public Health's Qatar National Cancer Registry projected a rise in gastroenterology illness. It is estimated that by 2030, the incidence rate of gastrointestinal malignancies will rise from approximately 18 cases per 100,000 people to 34 cases per 100,000 people.
Future Market Scenario (2024-2031F)
The key factors contributing to the significant growth of the UAE magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems market are the increasing prevalence of diseases and, thus, the rising requirement to conduct diagnostic tests. Moreover, the growing need to have precision medicine to maintain a healthy population will also fuel future market growth. Moreover, players in this market are expanding at an unparalleled rate, introducing cost-effective and efficient technologies. Government policies and policies made by welfare bodies are also greatly fueling the market expansion. For instance, in February 2022, the first radiopharmaceutical laboratory in Doha was opened by Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), and nuclear tumor treatment. The National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR) at HMC is home to the new laboratory, which offers local cancer patients therapeutic and diagnostic treatments, including a range of MRI options.
Key Players Landscape and Outlook
Key market players such as GE HealthCare Technologies Inc., Canon Medical Systems ME, Philips Healthcare Middle East, and Siemens Healthineers UAE are expanding business by planning and adopting new strategies in the UAE MRI systems market. They are complying with new strategic initiatives regarding the launches of newly developed magnetic resonance imaging techniques, to help researchers and to strengthen their presence in the market. New product launches, agreements based on contracts, acquisitions and mergers, investments and partnerships are a few ways through which they are trying to achieve the same.
For example, in July 2022, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and GE HealthCare Technologies Inc. partnered to conduct the �Rays of Hope� training program, which intended to train medical imaging professionals from Africa in PET-CT and PET-MRI imaging techniques. These techniques help diagnose diseases like cancer more accurately. Better MRI services were therefore made to be available in the area as a result of these collaborations.