Health Insurance in Dubai: Your Complete Guide

Did you know Dubai boasts one of the most efficient healthcare systems globally? With approximately 181 doctors per 100,000 residents, this city has become a hub for medical tourism and a renowned destination for healthcare.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a well-developed health infrastructure with high standards. This includes modern, accessible health facilities and comprehensive health insurance plans available to both residents and visitors.

If you’re moving to Dubai for work or starting a business, here’s what you need to know about health insurance in relation to the cost of living in the city.

Health Insurance Requirements in Dubai

Health insurance regulations and facilities in the UAE vary by city, but you can always expect world-class care. For example, Abu Dhabi offers the Thiga program, providing citizens with access to various public and private healthcare providers.

The UAE provides an all-encompassing government-funded health service that ensures high-quality care in both public and private sectors, often free or subsidized for UAE nationals.

However, expatriates and non-residents must pay for high-quality care. If you are employed in the UAE, your employer must ensure you have access to good healthcare. Employers cannot deduct salaries to cover medical expenses, and sponsors are required to provide health insurance for dependents.

In Dubai, the Health Insurance Law mandates that all residents have valid insurance coverage that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements set by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).

UAE nationals in Dubai can benefit from Saada, which provides health insurance coverage to citizens not covered by other government programs. Saada allows citizens to receive treatment at various private healthcare providers and DHA facilities.

Citizens also have the option to choose private healthcare coverage or join the government scheme.

How Healthcare Works in the UAE

The healthcare system across the UAE is generally straightforward, but there are key points to consider. In Dubai, the scope of health insurance coverage for employees and their dependents is influenced by their job designation and salary. This means that the type of policy you choose and the level of coverage you select will affect your medical service costs.

In Abu Dhabi, employers and sponsors are required to provide health insurance for their employees and their dependents, including one spouse and up to three children under 18 years. In contrast, Dubai employers are only obligated to provide health insurance for their employees, while sponsors must cover their resident dependents.

Here’s an overview of healthcare insurance options in Dubai:

Private Health Insurance in Dubai

Non-residents in Dubai must have valid health insurance arranged by their sponsor or employer. However, not all jobs offer health insurance coverage, and the extent of coverage for dependents may vary based on the chosen policy, special treatments, and dependents’ ages.

Each private health insurance provider operates differently, so it’s crucial to understand how each one works before making a decision. Consider factors like the claims process, included treatments, payment methods, and more. Check the UAE Insurance Authority for a list of approved and registered insurance providers to ensure you choose a legitimate company. Note that obtaining residence in Dubai or any other UAE city requires proof of valid health coverage.

Advantages of Private Health Insurance

Private health insurance in Dubai offers several benefits, including avoiding monthly fines for lacking coverage. Fines for not having health insurance can be higher than your monthly insurance contributions.

Additionally, private health insurance grants access to top-notch medical facilities equipped with modern technology and staffed by English-speaking professionals. It also allows for personalized coverage with add-ons and special requirements to suit your needs.

Public Health Insurance in Dubai

Public health coverage in the UAE varies by emirate and generally includes emergency services, preventive care like immunizations for children, essential vaccinations, and maternity services.

Public insurance covers primary health care services such as:

• General examinations
• Diagnostic services
• Treatment by general practitioners and specialists
• Physiotherapy
• Consultant services
• Radiology and diagnostic services
• Laboratory services
• Prescribed medications

However, public insurance typically does not cover vision correction surgeries, hearing aids, dental exams, or gum treatments. Coverage may include surgical operations, maternity follow-ups, and physiotherapy in some cases.

Health Insurance for Low Earners or Unemployed

Dubai offers the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) to provide medical coverage for residents with very low incomes. This plan is specifically for those earning below AED 4,000 per month and extends coverage to their dependents.

The EBP plan costs between AED 550 and AED 650 annually and covers maternity care, medication, tests, surgeries, emergencies, as well as outpatient and inpatient treatments. However, it has some limitations:

• Basic healthcare in Dubai
• An annual claim limit of AED 150,000
• No coverage for pre-existing or chronic conditions within the first six months
• A 20% co-pay, capped at AED 500 per visit, for essential inpatient services
• An annual cap of AED 1,000 for inpatient services
• An annual limit of AED 1,500 for medications or prescriptions
• A 30% co-pay for prescriptions

The plan includes maternity care, covering outpatient antenatal services and inpatient delivery. It offers up to AED 7,000 for a vaginal birth and up to AED 10,000 for a medically necessary caesarean section. Additionally, it provides 30 days of coverage for a newborn, including screenings and tests. Note that only certain insurance companies are authorized by the UAE government to offer the EBP.

The EBP is available only to employees earning below AED 4,000 per month. It provides similar coverage to public healthcare insurance. Domestic workers should have their healthcare provided by their employers.

Best Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates in Dubai

If your employer does not provide health insurance for you and your dependents, you can opt for a private healthcare plan or the Essential Benefits Plan. It’s essential to evaluate the requirements, benefits, and limitations of each plan before making a decision.

The EBP costs between AED 550 and AED 650 annually, which is approximately 150–175 USD. Before selecting an insurance provider, check the list of registered companies on the Insurance Authority’s website.

Many providers also offer Islamic insurance (takaful). For expatriates in Dubai, several reputable health insurance providers are available, including Aetna International and Cigna Middle East.

Cigna offers three coverage levels: International Plus, International, and Regional. To maximize your benefits, you might consider adding extra modules.

Aetna provides three plans for expatriates with options for add-ons and optional benefits. You can select from various cost-sharing solutions and coverage areas, gaining access to numerous hospitals.

Who Can Qualify for Health Insurance in Dubai

Any expatriate legally working in Dubai qualifies for health insurance through their employer. To access medical care at public facilities or government hospitals and clinics, you need a health card.

To apply for the card, visit a medical center or apply online through the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Required documents include:

• Passport details
• Emirates ID number
• Copy of your tenancy contract
• Residence visa
• Completed application form
• Two passport-sized photos

The medical card costs approximately 320 dirhams for adults and 120 dirhams for children under 10.

Do I Need Health Insurance in Dubai?

Health insurance is crucial in Dubai. Without proof of valid health insurance, you cannot obtain a UAE residency visa.

While UAE nationals benefit from free or low-cost insurance, expatriates must pay for both public and private insurance. Discuss your health insurance coverage with your employer and ensure coverage for your dependents.

For assistance with setting up a business or obtaining a residency visa in Dubai, Dawleygroup provides comprehensive solutions so you can focus on your priorities. Contact us today for more information about our services.