Health insurance in the UAE explained
Mandatory cover in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the other emirates, and what employers must provide.
In short
Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and, since 2025, across all emirates. Your employer must cover you; you usually pay for your family. Basic plans cover local clinics, enhanced plans add wider networks and international cover.
- Mandatory
- Yes, all emirates
- Employer pays
- For the employee
- Basic plan
- From approx. AED 320 per year (Essential Benefits)
- Regulators
- DHA (Dubai), DOH (Abu Dhabi)
Step by step
Tick each step as you finish it. Open a step to see what to do.
Ask for the network list and co-pay percentage.
Week 1
Documents checklist
Do’s and don’ts
Do
- Check maternity waiting periods
- Get pre-approval for planned procedures
- Carry Emirates ID – it is linked to your policy
Don’t
- Don’t assume dental and optical are covered
- Don’t let cover lapse – it blocks visa renewal
Cost estimator
Untick what doesn't apply to you. These are rough figures and fees change often, so check with the authority.
Watch out
- Emergency treatment cannot be refused, but non-emergency care outside network is paid by you.
Common questions
Is maternity covered?
In Dubai, the basic plan includes maternity care. Many plans have a waiting period of up to 12 months.
Official links
Background and more detail
Mandatory cover
- Dubai: employers must insure employees; sponsors must insure their dependents
- Abu Dhabi: employers must cover employees and usually their spouse and up to three children
- Other emirates: mandatory cover has been rolled out nationwide since January 2025
What basic plans cover
Basic plans cover GP visits, emergencies, hospital stays and maternity with co-payments of around 20%. Enhanced plans add wider networks and dental and optical cover.
Using it
Show your Emirates ID at network clinics. For specialists, many plans require a GP referral.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are everywhere and many are open 24 hours. Some medicines that are available over the counter elsewhere need a prescription here, and some are controlled. Check before travelling with medication.
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