A court in Dubai has ordered a hospital and a doctor to pay Dh100,000 in compensation to a couple following the loss of their unborn child, citing failures in medical procedures. The Dubai Court of First Instance ruled that while it could not be confirmed that earlier medical int
A court in Dubai has ordered a hospital and a doctor to pay Dh100,000 in compensation to a couple following the loss of their unborn child, citing failures in medical procedures.
The Dubai Court of First Instance ruled that while it could not be confirmed that earlier medical intervention would have saved the foetus, proper protocols were not followed at a critical time.
According to case details, the pregnant woman sought medical help after noticing reduced foetal movement. An initial examination detected a weak heartbeat, but no urgent action was taken, and she was advised to consult her regular doctor instead.
When she was unable to reach her physician, the couple visited another hospital, where tests later confirmed that the foetus had died in the womb due to the umbilical cord being wrapped around its neck. The woman subsequently underwent a caesarean procedure.
A review by the Higher Committee for Medical Liability found shortcomings in the handling of the case, including the failure to carry out immediate monitoring or provide urgent care. However, it did not establish a direct link between the delay and the foetus’ death.
In its judgment, the court stated that doctors are required to follow established medical standards and exercise due care, even if outcomes cannot always be guaranteed. It concluded that the delay in taking necessary action caused emotional harm to the parents.
The court awarded Dh100,000 in moral damages to the couple and ordered the hospital and doctor to jointly cover the compensation along with legal expenses.
