For international patients opting for a maternity package at King’s College Hospital Dubai, careful planning and preparation are key to ensuring a smooth experience for both mother and baby, as well as the partner accompanying them. Below are the essential steps and considerations: Medical Evaluation: Before traveling, the expecting mother should undergo a comprehensive medical examination with her primary care physician or obstetrician. This examination should include routine blood tests, ultrasounds, and any other necessary diagnostic tests. These results should be shared with your care team at King’s College Hospital prior to your arrival to ensure all medical information is up to date. Medications: Review all medications with your healthcare provider. Certain medications may need to be adjusted or discontinued before delivery. Your care team at King’s will coordinate with your physician to ensure that appropriate medications are prescribed for both mother and baby as needed during and after delivery. Home and Travel Preparation: Make arrangements for your stay in Dubai well ahead of your due date. It’s important to arrive in the city in advance to allow for adequate time before delivery. Ensure that both mother and partner are comfortable and well-prepared for an extended stay. Assistance from a family member, friend, or professional caregiver should also be arranged for the post-delivery recovery period, especially if you plan to stay locally after delivery. Preoperative Instructions: While this may or may not be a surgical procedure, you may still receive specific instructions depending on your birthing plan. For mothers opting for a C-section or any medical intervention, fasting guidelines may apply, typically no food or drink after midnight before the scheduled procedure. General preparation, such as using antibacterial soap before arriving at the hospital, may also be recommended by your obstetrics team. Follow-Up Care and Requirements for International Patients Post-Delivery Follow-Up in Dubai: After delivery, it is recommended that the mother, baby, and partner stay locally in Dubai for a few days to allow for follow-up care. This will enable the care team at King’s to monitor the mother’s recovery, the baby’s health, and to ensure that all postnatal procedures (such as vaccinations and screenings) are completed. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled during your stay. Support for the Partner: King’s College Hospital Dubai’s international patients section has easy booking accommodation to support the partner. Continued Care After Returning Home: Once the family returns home, follow-up care can be managed remotely through teleconsultations. King’s College Hospital will work with your local healthcare provider to ensure that both mother and baby receive ongoing care and support, including regular check-ups, postnatal advice, and vaccinations as required.