When it comes to living in the UAE, medical insurance is more than just a smart investment – it’s a legal requirement for residents. But how much should you expect to pay for coverage, and what do different plans actually include?
Whether you’re new to the UAE or reviewing your existing coverage, understanding the cost of medical insurance and what influences it will help you make informed choices that suit both your lifestyle and budget.
Medical Insurance in the UAE: The Basics.
All residents in the UAE are required to have health insurance. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it’s mandatory for employers to provide cover for employees, while dependents such as spouses, children, and domestic workers must be insured privately. The UAE’s healthcare system is among the best in the world, offering access to state-of-the-art hospitals and highly qualified medical professionals. But the cost of care, especially in private hospitals, can be high. This makes having the right health insurance plan essential.
Levels of Medical Insurance Coverage.
The cost of medical insurance in the UAE depends largely on the level of coverage you choose. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of plans:
Basic/Essential Benefits Plans.
These plans are often used to fulfil legal requirements and are mandatory for residency visa processing. Coverage is limited and usually confined to network hospitals within the same emirate. This is reflected in the cost range of these plans, with the approximate cost ranging between AED 600-1,500 per year. Because of this, basic plans are best suited for low-income workers and dependents.
Despite their relatively low cost, basic/essential benefits plans still usually cover emergency treatment, GP consultations, prescribed medications, basic maternity care, essential tests and diagnostics, and sometimes limited referrals to specialists.
Mid-Tier/Standard Plans.
Standard plans are better quality plans which are suited for individuals and families seeking broader healthcare access. They cover a broader range of services including comprehensive outpatient and inpatient care, specialist consultations, routine and preventative care, maternity and paediatrics, and in most cases international emergency cover is also covered. Because of this, they cost substantially more than essential benefits plans, usually ranging from around AED 3,000-7,000 per year. This is a popular type of policy regardless of the increased cost due to greater flexibility and the access to a wider range of healthcare providers alongside shorter waiting times for consultations and procedures.
Premium/International Plans.
Premium plans are ideal for those who expect high levels of care, travel frequently, or want full access to top-tier medical services around the world. They are typically the favourite choice of expats, executives and frequent travellers and cover a wide range of services including global medical coverage, private hospital suites, specialist treatments and surgeries, dental and optical benefits, wellness and mental health services, and chronic condition management. This comprehensive coverage typically starts from AED 8,000.
What Affects the Cost of Medical Insurance in the UAE?
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to pricing. Several factors will determine the final cost of your medical insurance premium including:
- Location. Dubai is ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world for private health insurance. Medical facilities in the city are state-of-the-art, and with that comes a premium on care. Costs may be slightly lower in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or other northern emirates, but Dubai remains at the higher end due to demand and the availability of luxury healthcare providers.
- Type of Plan. As mentioned above, the more comprehensive your plan, the higher the premium. Basic plans will cover only essential needs, while premium plans offer a complete package, including international coverage and elective procedures.
- Age and Health Status. As with insurance everywhere, older individuals or those with pre-existing conditions will typically face higher premiums. Some insurers may require a medical exam prior to issuing a policy.
- Network of Providers. Plans with limited hospital networks are usually cheaper, while those that allow access to a wide range of public and private healthcare providers come at a higher cost.
- Extras and Add-Ons. Adding benefits like dental and optical cover, alternative therapies, mental health support, and worldwide emergency assistance will all increase premiums. However, adding these extras can offer added peace of mind and better overall care. Policies are highly customisable and different policies will suit different groups of people.
Tailored Health Insurance from IAE Insure.
At IAE Insure, we work with a broad panel of leading insurers to find the right health cover that matches your needs and your budget. Whether you’re a single expat, a young family, or a business looking to insure your team, we provide expert, independent advice tailored to your situation. Our team of UAE-based insurance experts are here to walk you through your options and help you compare quotes, benefits, and network coverage to make sure you get exactly what you need, without paying more than you should.
If you’re wondering how much health insurance will cost for you and your family in the UAE, speak to one of our experienced advisers and get a free, no-obligation quote today.
