Introduction

‍In the UAE, health insurance is mandatory for all residents, including employees, self-employed individuals, and their dependents. The healthcare system in the UAE is highly developed, and the insurance requirement ensures that everyone has access to medical care. This guide will provide details on insurance requirements, available policies, and the procedures for obtaining them.

1. Who Needs Health Insurance?

Health insurance is mandatory for:

• Employees: The employer is responsible for providing a health insurance policy.
• Dependents: In some cases, the employer covers dependents, otherwise, the sponsor is responsible.
• Self-employed individuals and entrepreneurs: They must purchase private insurance.
• Domestic workers and housemaids: They must also be covered by a policy provided by the employer.

2. Types of Available Insurance Policies

Health insurance policies in the UAE vary in terms of coverage and cost. There are three main categories:

1. Basic Insurance (Essential Benefits Plan - EBP)
   Intended for workers with low incomes (less than 4,000 AED per month).
   Covers basic medical care and emergency treatments.
   Annual cost: 600 - 800 AED.
2. Standard Insurance
   Covers specialist visits, hospitalizations, medications, and preventive care.
   Coverage options vary by insurance company.
   Annual cost: 2,500 - 5,000 AED.
3. Premium Insurance
   Offers international coverage, VIP services, and access to luxury private hospitals.
   Includes regular check-ups, specialist treatments, and dental care.
   Annual cost: 7,000 - 30,000 AED.

3. How to obtain Health Insurance in the UAE

Obtaining health insurance depends on your residency status:

• If you are an employee:
  The employer must provide a health insurance policy.
  Check with your HR department to find out which insurance company has been chosen.
• If you are self-employed or an entrepreneur:
  You must purchase a private policy through an accredited insurer.
  You can compare plans through the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or private providers.
• If you are sponsoring dependents or domestic workers:
  You are responsible for their insurance coverage.
  You must take out a policy that meets their needs.

4. Most popular insurance companies in the UAE

The main insurance companies in the UAE include:

• Daman Health Insurance
• AXA Gulf
• Oman Insurance Company
• MetLife UAE
• Orient Insurance
• Bupa Global

These companies offer personalized plans based on income and medical needs.

5. What does mandatory health insurance cover?

Standard health insurance policies cover:

• General and specialist medical visits.
• Hospitalizations and surgeries.
• Emergency care.
• Prescription medications.
• Maternity and prenatal care.
• Diagnostic tests and basic treatments.

Premium policies also include:

• Dental and orthodontic care.
• International coverage.
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
• Aesthetic treatments and optional surgery.

6. Penalties for not having health insurance

Anyone who does not have adequate health insurance may face penalties:

• A monthly fine of 500 AED for being uninsured.
• Inability to renew residency visas until proof of coverage is provided.
• Penalties for employers who fail to provide insurance to employees.

Conclusion

Health insurance in the UAE is a crucial requirement for all residents, ensuring access to high-quality care and financial protection in the event of emergencies. If you are an employee, your employer must provide a policy. If you are self-employed or a sponsor, you must ensure that you purchase adequate coverage for yourself and your dependents. Planning and choosing the right insurance plan will allow you to live in Dubai without health-related worries.