Health insurance in Dubai and Abu Dhabi: what your employer must provide
Mandatory cover, the basic plan, family cover and how to use it.
In short
Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and paid by the employer for employees. Family cover is often the employee’s cost. Since 2025 insurance is mandatory across all emirates.
- Paid by
- Employer (employee)
- Basic plan
- about AED 700–1,000/yr
- Co-pay
- Usually 10–20%
- Regulator
- DHA / DOH
Step by step
Tick each step as you finish it. Open a step to see what to do.
HR gives it with your visa.
Week 1
Documents checklist
Do’s and don’ts
Do
- Keep receipts for reimbursement
Don’t
- Don’t assume dental and optical are covered
Cost estimator
Untick what doesn't apply to you. These are rough figures and fees change often, so check with the authority.
Watch out
- Pre-existing conditions may have a waiting period on cheaper plans.
Common questions
What about emergencies?
Emergency care must be given by hospitals regardless of insurance.
Official links
Background and more detail
Health insurance is mandatory in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and paid by the employer for employees. Family cover is often the employee’s cost. Since 2025 insurance is mandatory across all emirates.
Key facts
- Paid by: Employer (employee)
- Basic plan: about AED 700–1,000/yr
- Co-pay: Usually 10–20%
- Regulator: DHA / DOH
Steps
- Get your insurance card – HR gives it with your visa.
- Check the network – Use the insurer app to find in-network clinics.
- Add family – Buy cover before applying for their visas.
Watch out
- Pre-existing conditions may have a waiting period on cheaper plans.
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