Medical insurance in the UAE is held in high regard around the world. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates within the UAE have established a robust healthcare system to ensure that its citizens and expats have access to essential medical services, through comprehensive medical insurance regulations.
Up until January 1st, 2025, it was only mandatory in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to have medical insurance. The other five emirates Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, provided optional medical insurance for their employees. However, since the beginning of this year, the laws have changed. Keep reading to find out how and why…
The Dubai and Abu Dhabi Medical Insurance Requirements Explained
Of the seven emirates, Dubai and Abu Dhabi hold an especially high standard of medical care as these are the areas that attract the most expats.
Abu Dhabi
The first emirate to introduce mandatory medical insurance in 2006, Abu Dhabi wanted to ensure that their employers provided at least a basic healthcare plan to their employees, which included general practitioner consultations, specialist care, maternity services, emergency treatment, and other essential healthcare services.
Dubai
Dubai followed suit in 2016 with its own mandatory medical insurance regulations. These included ensuring that employers were responsible for their employee’s medical insurance and additionally, sponsors are required to ensure their dependents have valid medical insurance. Dubai also introduced an Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) which mandates a minimum level of coverage for residents including outpatient services, inpatient treatments, maternity care, and emergency services. Only DHA-approved insurance companies can offer medical insurance in Dubai, enforcing high policy standards and requirements.
Why are the Remaining Five Emirates Making Medical Insurance Mandatory?
From January 1st, 2025, employers in the private sector will be required to provide medical insurance coverage to their employees and domestic workers in the remaining five emirates. This new decision will extend the current law in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to the entire UAE, and it will become mandatory for employers to provide medical insurance for their workers. This extension aims to minimise the financial burden on individuals and enhance the overall health of the population.
If you are already living and working in the UAE with a valid work permit issued before 1st January 2025, then you will be exempt until your permit comes up for renewal.
Consequences for Not Being Covered by Medical Insurance in the UAE
Mandatory medical insurance throughout all seven emirates is taken very seriously. Employers, expats, and sponsors must adhere to these regulations to ensure safety and renewal of visa applications. Consequences for not having medical insurance in the UAE include substantial fines for each uninsured resident or dependent, a denial or delay of visa application and renewals, and a damaged business reputation and legal standing for those companies not offering insurance to their employees.
Basic and Premium Medical Insurance Options
There are a variety of medical insurance options to choose from, each with varying degrees of coverage options. Many individuals can be undecided whether to go for a basic package or opt for a more premium option.
Basic
Basic – focuses on providing essential medical services including primary healthcare, emergency medical treatments, and essential medications. They are designed to meet the needs of those on a lower income but can also include coverage for consultations, diagnostic tests, and preventative care.
Premium
Premium – offers a more extensive range of services including access to specialist consultations, advanced diagnostic procedures, and elective treatments. For individuals and their families who require more comprehensive coverage, premium medical insurance is advisable.
There are varying degrees of coverage available to residents and expats through their employers and individually. Policyholders can receive medical treatment at a wide range of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities across the UAE, allowing the flexibility to choose the healthcare provider that best suits the holder’s needs. Speaking with a knowledgeable medical insurance specialist can provide the insights and recommendations you need to decide on the best coverage for you and your family. Our team at IAE Insure are trusted medical insurance specialists in the UAE and are here to help.
Speak to a Medical Insurance Specialist Today
IAE Insure is a leading provider of comprehensive medical insurance services in the UAE. We work with leading insurance providers to craft bespoke policies tailored to your unique needs. Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional service and the right insurance solutions for every situation.
Contact us today, your medical insurance specialist in the UAE.
