Healthtech startups ramp up US, UAE ops as demand soars

Quicker adoption, more willingness to pay make these markets attractive

- S SHANTHI

THE US AND the UAE are emerging as key overseas markets for local healthtech startups, with several companies moving from pilot launches to commercial expansion, as demand for digital healthcare solutions accelerates in both regions.

Founders and investors say the two markets offer faster adoption cycles and greater willingness to pay for technology-led healthcare products compared with many emerging markets. The trend is also being supported by Indian startups building globally competitive products and tapping diaspora networks for early adoption.

Healthtech platform Practo in January launched its care navigation platform in the US after establishing operations in the UAE last year. The company said the expansion reflects rising demand for online doctor discovery and care coordination tools.

Practo entered the US market in April 2025 and has since seen rapid adoption. The platform now lists more than 200,000 doctors in the country and reports an annualised gross merchandise value run-rate of over $75 million. Monthly active users crossed 300,000 within six months, with traffic rising nearly sixfold during that period. The company also reported its first full-year profit in FY25, with its core business growing 25-30% year-on-year.