Comprehensive Guide to Health Insurance in Dubai by Multi Solution

Did you know that Dubai boasts one of the world’s most efficient healthcare systems? With around 181 doctors per 100,000 residents, the city has become a hub for medical tourism and gained global recognition.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a robust healthcare infrastructure with high standards. Modern health facilities and insurance plans are easily accessible, catering to both locals and visitors in Dubai.

If you’re relocating to Dubai for work or business, understanding health insurance plans is crucial when considering the city’s cost of living.

Health Insurance Requirements in Dubai
Healthcare standards and requirements vary across UAE cities, yet top-notch medical care is assured everywhere. In Abu Dhabi, for instance, citizens are covered under the Thiga program, granting access to a range of public and private healthcare providers.

The UAE offers a comprehensive government-funded health service that delivers quality care across public and private sectors, either free or subsidized for nationals.

However, expatriates and non-residents must pay for quality healthcare. If you’re employed in the UAE, your employer is responsible for ensuring your access to healthcare.

Moreover, employers, including those hiring expatriates, are prohibited from deducting employees’ salaries for healthcare coverage. Sponsors are also obligated to provide health insurance for their dependents.

In Dubai, the Health Insurance Law mandates that all residents possess valid insurance coverage meeting or exceeding the Dubai Health Authority’s (DHA) minimum requirements.

Dubai’s Healthcare System
While the healthcare system in all emirates is straightforward, there are some key considerations. Health insurance coverage for employees and their dependents in Dubai is determined by their role and salary. The extent of coverage influences the cost of medical services.

Employers and sponsors in Abu Dhabi are required to offer health insurance coverage for employees and their dependents, including one spouse and up to three children under 18.

In Dubai, however, employers are responsible for their employees’ health insurance coverage, while sponsors must provide coverage for their resident dependents.

Here are some healthcare insurance options in Dubai:

Private Health Insurance in Dubai
For non-residents, sponsors or employers must ensure valid health insurance coverage. However, not all jobs include health insurance benefits. Coverage for dependents varies based on preferences, including special treatments and ages.

Keep in mind that each private health insurance provider operates differently. Therefore, it’s essential to understand their processes, claiming procedures, coverage details, payment methods, and more before selecting an insurer.

Consult the UAE Insurance Authority’s list of approved insurance providers to ensure your chosen company is legitimate. Note that the UAE government requires proof of valid health coverage for residency applications.

Advantages of Private Health Insurance
Opting for private health insurance in Dubai offers significant advantages, including avoiding monthly fines. Living without health insurance in the UAE results in fines that could exceed your monthly healthcare contributions.

Additionally, private health insurance grants access to top-tier medical facilities equipped with modern equipment and English-speaking experts.

Furthermore, private insurance allows you to customize your coverage by adding extras or addressing specific needs.

Public Health Insurance in Dubai
Public healthcare coverage varies across emirates, primarily encompassing emergencies, preventive services, essential vaccinations, and maternity care.

Coverage includes primary healthcare services such as:

General check-ups
Diagnostic services
Treatment by general practitioners and specialists
Physiotherapy
Consultations
Radiology diagnostics
Lab services
Prescribed medications
However, public healthcare coverage excludes vision correction, hearing and vision aids, and dental and gum examinations. Surgical operations, maternity follow-ups, and physiotherapy might be covered in some instances.

Health Insurance for Low Earners or Unemployed
Dubai’s Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) provides medical coverage to residents with low incomes, covering those earning below AED 4,000. The EBP also extends to their dependents.

The EBP plan costs AED 550-650 annually and covers maternity care, medication, tests, surgeries, emergencies, and both outpatient and inpatient treatments. This plan has specific limitations, such as:

Basic healthcare coverage
A claim limit of AED 150,000 per year
No coverage for pre-existing or chronic conditions in the initial six months
A 20% co-pay capped at AED 500 per visit for essential inpatient care
An annual cap of AED 1,000 for inpatient services
An annual limit of AED 1,500 for prescriptions
A 30% co-pay for each prescription
The plan encompasses maternity care, including outpatient antenatal services and inpatient services during childbirth. It provides up to AED 7,000 for vaginal birth delivery and up to AED 10,000 for medically necessary cesarean sections.

Mothers under the EBP plan receive 30 days of coverage for newborns, including screenings and tests. Note that only specific insurance companies can offer EBP.

EBP is available to employees earning less than AED 4,000 per month. Despite the income limitation, it offers coverage similar to public healthcare insurance. Domestic workers should receive healthcare coverage from their employers.

Top Dubai Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates
If your employer doesn’t offer healthcare coverage, you can opt for private healthcare plans or the Essential Benefits Plan. Weigh the requirements and pros and cons of each plan before making your decision.

Choosing EBP could cost between AED 550 and 650 per year. Consider checking the list of registered companies on the Insurance Authority’s website before choosing a provider.

Several plans cater to expatriates in Dubai, such as Aetna International and Cigna Middle East. Cigna’s three cover levels – International Plus, International, and Regional – offer the flexibility to include additional modules.

Aetna offers three plans for expatriates, along with add-ons, optional benefits, voluntary cost-sharing solutions, and various areas of coverage. These plans provide access to multiple hospitals.

Who Qualifies for Health Insurance in Dubai?
Any legally employed expatriate in Dubai is eligible for health insurance through their employers. A health card is necessary to access public facilities or government hospitals and clinics.

To apply, visit a medical center or complete an online application via the DHA. Documents required for the medical card application include:

Passport details
Emirates ID number
Tenancy contract copy
Residence visa
Completed application form
Two passport photos
Acquiring a medical card costs at least 320 dirhams for adults and 120 dirhams for children under 10.

Is Health Insurance Necessary in Dubai?
Having health insurance in Dubai is essential, as proof of valid health insurance is mandatory for obtaining a UAE residency visa.

Unlike UAE nationals who benefit from free or low-cost insurance, expatriates must pay for both public and private coverage. Thus, communicate with your employer to understand your health insurance coverage and ensure coverage for your dependents.

For assistance in setting up a business or obtaining a residency visa in Dubai, trust Multi Solution to provide the right solutions, allowing you to focus on your priorities. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services.