Venereologist in Dubai — what a venereologist treats and what a confidential visit involves

Key facts

• Treats STIs and genital skin conditions
• Combined dermatology and venereology expertise
• Confidential care in English and Arabic
• Swabs, urine and blood tests as needed
• Possible HIV exposure within 72 hours needs urgent care

What venereology covers

Venereology is the medical specialty focused on sexually transmitted infections and related conditions. A venereologist assesses symptoms such as genital sores, ulcers, warts, discharge, burning on urination, itching, rashes and lumps, and arranges screening for infections that may have no symptoms, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV and hepatitis B and C. In many countries, including the UAE, venereology is combined with dermatology, which is useful because many genital complaints are skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, lichen sclerosus, fungal infections or harmless bumps, rather than infections. A combined specialist can tell the difference and treat both.

Conditions commonly treated

Common reasons to see a venereologist include genital herpes, genital warts caused by HPV, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, trichomoniasis and molluscum contagiosum. Non-infectious conditions are also frequent: balanitis, lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, genital eczema or psoriasis, pearly penile papules, Fordyce spots and skin tags, many of which are harmless but cause worry. Pubic lice and scabies are treated too. Dr. Abdullah Anis's fellowship in dermatopathology at St John's Institute of Dermatology in London adds expertise in diagnosing unusual or persistent genital skin lesions, including when a biopsy is needed to rule out precancerous change.

Confidentiality and privacy

Sexual health consultations at Manhal are private and handled with discretion. Your information is protected under DHA and UAE health-data regulations and is not shared with employers or family. You can choose to be seen in English or Arabic. As in many countries, certain infections must by law be notified to the health authority, and the doctor explains what this involves before testing so you can make informed decisions. The aim is a respectful, non-judgemental environment where you can describe symptoms and sexual history honestly, because accurate information leads to the right tests and treatment.

What happens at a visit

Dr. Abdullah Anis begins by asking about your symptoms, when they started, recent sexual contacts, contraception and condom use, previous infections and any medications or allergies. With your consent, he examines the affected area; a chaperone can be requested. Depending on the situation, he may take swabs, a urine sample or blood tests, and in some cases a small skin biopsy. Some conditions, such as warts or herpes with typical signs, can often be diagnosed and treated on the same day, while laboratory results usually take several days. He explains the likely diagnosis, treatment, when to avoid sex, and whether partners should be tested.

When to seek care quickly

Book a prompt appointment if you notice a new genital sore or ulcer, discharge, pain on urination, unexplained rash on the palms or soles, or if a partner has been diagnosed with an infection. Seek same-day medical care for severe pelvic or testicular pain, swelling of the testicles, fever with genital symptoms, or inability to pass urine. If you think you have been exposed to HIV in the last 72 hours, go to an emergency department or a facility providing post-exposure prophylaxis immediately, as it must be started as early as possible. Regular screening is advisable if you have new or multiple partners.

Venereology is the medical care of sexually transmitted infections that affect the skin and genital area. Consultations are private, non-judgemental and led by a specialist dermatologist and venereologist.

Prepared by the Manhal Medical Center editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-18 · Treating specialist: Dr. Abdullah Anis

This page is general information and does not replace a consultation. Suitability, risks and results vary between patients.