Medical insurance in the UAE: 3 things to know

Posted on: 25th May 2022 in Insurance

Buying medical insurance when moving to the United Arab Emirates is one of the first things that expats should consider. Living and working in the Emirates can be a memorable experience. Nevertheless, moving to a new country requires careful preparation. If you don’t consider many details, you might end up getting in trouble.

One of the things that you should take care of is medical coverage. Medical cover ensures that you will have the required medical treatment in the event of a health problem. This blog will give you important information on health coverage in the UAE that will make your stay there easier.

Is the UAE’s health system good?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) features both a public health system that is all-encompassing and is sponsored by the government, as well as a private health sector that is fast increasing and provides a high level of medical care to the people.

Various regulatory authorities at federal and emirate level are responsible for the administration of public healthcare services. These regulatory authorities include the Ministry of Health and Prevention, the Health Authority-Abu Dhabi (HAAD), the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), and the Emirates Health Authority (EHA).

With an overall score of 44.68 on the World Index of Healthcare Innovation, the United Arab Emirates has earned the position of 22nd worldwide. The UAE has many modern clinics, hospitals and several primary healthcare centres. The list is available on the website of the Ministry of Health and Prevention.

Why should you take out medical insurance in the UAE?

You have left your home country which might be thousands of miles away to live and work in the Emirates. You have left behind family and friends. The last thing that you would like is to face medical emergencies that would cause stress and financial uncertainty as medical bills could be quite high. 

The UAE is home to some of the most advanced medical facilities on the planet, making it a highly desirable destination for expats. Health insurance is essential for expatriates living in Abu Dhabi and Dubai if they want to enjoy the high standard of healthcare in the UAE.

Some Emirates require taking out health insurance

The requirements for insurance can vary depending on which Emirate you live in. Having health insurance is required by law in the emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, whereas in other emirates it is not required by law at all.

Employers and sponsors in the emirate of Abu Dhabi are accountable for the provision of health insurance coverage for their staff members and the families of those staff members (1 spouse and 3 children under 18 years).

It is mandatory for employers in the emirate of Dubai to provide their staff members with coverage under a health insurance plan. The requirement for sponsors to obtain insurance coverage for their resident dependents is mandatory.

The United Arab Emirates is home to a number of different insurance providers. In addition, many companies offer Islamic insurance (takaful). 

Having no health cover in the UAE incurs fines

Both Abu Dhabi and Dubai have made proof of health insurance coverage a legal requirement, and residents who do not have the required coverage are subject to a monthly fine.

If you do not have health insurance in Abu Dhabi, you can anticipate having to pay AED 300 per month for each individual in your household. This cost is AED 500 per month in Dubai, and the government will not renew visas or grant residency unless there is proof that adequate health insurance has been purchased.

The employee’s income, classification, and other factors, among others, are used to calculate the level of coverage for employers and their dependents. The amount that you would have to pay for medical treatments would be based on the level of coverage as well as the type of policy or plan that you have.

Your family should have medical insurance 

Many expats move to the UAE accompanied by their families. Living in a foreign country and adjusting to a new way of life isn’t an easy task. In case of any medical emergencies, medical expenses can be high if you don’t have the right health insurance policy for your family. Having a comprehensive insurance plan in place for your loved ones should be your primary goal. 

Employers in Dubai are not required to offer health insurance to any dependents of their staff members. This includes spouses and children. Before you move to Dubai, you and your family are going to need to make sure that everyone is covered by private medical insurance, unless your work is especially generous.

What is the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) in Dubai?

There is also an option available for those with more limited financial means. Residents of Dubai are offered necessary benefits at prices that are within their means thanks to a program called the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP).

The EBP was developed through a partnership between the government of Dubai and a select group of medical insurance providers. The annual premiums typically fall somewhere in the region of 650 AED to 725 AED (about £145 to £162).

Expat living in Dubai? Holborn has the insurance solution for you

Holborn is a financial services provider with a global footprint and more than 20 years of active presence in the market. Having won multiple awards for our unique customer support and the broad range of products, Holborn is the ideal solution for expats who would like to build the ultimate financial plan. 

Whether you would like to have a personal financial review, take out life insurance or seek to diversify your investment portfolio, our teams of experienced and fully qualified financial advisers are ready to help you achieve your financial goals. Get in touch with us by filling in the contact form or visiting Holborn’s headquarters in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.