Semi-Comprehensive Health Insurance in UAE
Semi-comprehensive health insurance is a mid-level medical coverage plan. It offers more benefits than basic coverage but at a lower cost than comprehensive plans. With this type of insurance, you get coverage for essential services like doctor visits, branded medications, maternity care, and some ...read more
Health Insurance UAE Plans















What is Semi-Comprehensive Health Insurance?
Semi-comprehensive health insurance is a type of insurance that provides a mix of basic and extended benefits.
It’s designed for people who need more than just emergency coverage but don’t require every feature of a full comprehensive plan either. These policies usually include outpatient consultations, branded medications, maternity care, and limited dental or mental health benefits. While they may not offer full international coverage or high-end extras, they still cover most essential healthcare needs.
It's a practical option if you’re a UAE resident looking for dependable coverage without paying top-tier premiums.
How Does Semi-Comprehensive Health Insurance Work in the UAE?
Here’s how semi-comprehensive health insurance usually works in the UAE —
- Choose a plan: You select from various semi-comprehensive options, each with defined benefits, annual limits, and a specific medical network.
- Get your insurance card: This card gives you access to healthcare services at approved clinics and hospitals. Just show it at the reception when you visit.
- Use approved providers: You can visit general practitioners and some specialists (in-clinic). Hospital stays are covered if they meet the policy terms.
- Pre-approvals for major care: Maternity, surgeries, and some diagnostic procedures require prior approval from your insurer, except in emergencies.
- Claims and billing: Most treatments within the network are settled directly. If you visit a provider outside the network, you can apply for reimbursement. It is usually done at 80% or 100% of standard rates, depending on the case.
For Example
If you visit a clinic for a consultation and require branded medications, your semi-comprehensive health insurance plan generally covers these up to your benefit limit. If you're admitted to a hospital, your insurance will handle inpatient costs as per the plan terms. Coverage outside the UAE is usually on a reimbursement basis.

What is the Cost of Semi-Comprehensive Health Insurance in the UAE?
The cost of semi-comprehensive health insurance in the UAE starts at around AED 1,300. However, keep in mind that prices vary based on your age, health condition, visa location, and chosen benefits.
Here is a general price range based on region —
|
Region |
Estimated Annual Premium (AED) |
|---|---|
|
Dubai |
AED 1,300 – AED 6,600 |
|
Abu Dhabi |
AED 1,300 – AED 8,600 |
|
Northern Emirates |
AED 1,300 – AED 6,600 |
While these prices are for individual plans, family and dependent policies may differ. Also, plans that offer higher limits or wider hospital networks may come at a slightly higher cost. It’s always best to compare multiple plans side by side to find the one that suits both your healthcare needs and your budget.
Key Inclusions of Semi-Comprehensive Health Insurance
Some of the top features of semi-comprehensive health insurance plans are given in the table below —
|
Feature |
Coverage Details |
|---|---|
|
Annual Limit |
Up to AED 1 million per member |
|
Doctor Access |
General physicians in-network; specialist access in clinics (not for general walk-ins) |
|
Medication |
Branded medications covered, up to AED 5,000 |
|
Dental Coverage |
Emergency dental covered; routine care covered up to AED 500 (with co-pay) |
|
Maternity (Delivery) |
Covered up to AED 12,500 (normal or C-section, subject to co-pay) |
|
Alternative Medicine |
Covered up to AED 1,600 (selected therapies like Ayurveda, Chiropractic) |
|
Mental Health (Therapy) |
Outpatient counselling covered up to AED 800 per year |
|
Scope of Coverage (Outside UAE) |
Covered via reimbursement only |
|
Orthodontics |
Not covered |
|
Room Type |
Semi-private room for inpatient stays |
|
Emergency Services |
Ambulance services covered; hospital admission covered as per policy limits |
|
Diagnostics & Imaging |
X-rays, MRI, Ultrasound, CT scan, and more covered (subject to plan limits) |
|
Pre-existing Conditions |
Covered up to AED 150,000 per year (subject to medical declaration and approval) |
|
Newborn Cover |
Covered under mother’s policy for 30 days from birth |
|
Vaccinations |
Covered as per DHA policy |
Note: While most semi-comprehensive plans in the UAE follow similar standards, the benefits vary slightly between providers.
General Exclusions in Semi-Comprehensive Health Insurance
While semi-comprehensive medical insurance plans offer broad coverage, some treatments and services are usually not included. It’s important to know what’s not covered to avoid surprises during a claim.
The table highlights the common exclusions of semi comprehensive health insurance plans in the UAE —
|
Category |
Not Covered |
|---|---|
|
Cosmetic Treatments |
Surgeries for aesthetic purposes, unless medically required |
|
Infertility Treatments |
IVF, fertility procedures, and related tests |
|
Obesity and Weight Loss |
Surgical and non-surgical weight loss treatments |
|
Alternative Therapies |
Some forms like acupuncture, massage, or cupping may not be covered |
|
Dental & Optical (Elective) |
Orthodontics, cosmetic dental, vision correction surgery |
|
Professional Sports Injuries |
Injuries during professional sporting events |
|
Experimental Treatments |
Trials, unapproved medication, and research-based treatments |
|
Self-inflicted Injuries |
Including attempted suicide or injuries due to substance abuse |
Always check your specific policy’s Table of Benefits (TOB) to confirm exclusions and limits.

Why Should You Buy Semi-Comprehensive Health Insurance via Policybazaar.ae?
Policybazaar.ae makes it easy for UAE residents to find the right health insurance without any hassle. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly semi-comprehensive plan or a policy that includes extra benefits like maternity or branded medications, the platform helps you compare options side by side.
Here’s why Policybazaar UAE is popular among those seeking semi-comprehensive health coverage —
- Compare Multiple Plans Instantly: You can check premiums, benefits, and coverage details from leading insurers — all in one place.
- Expert Guidance: With us, you can get the support of dedicated insurance experts who help you find a plan that fits your health needs and budget.
- Exclusive Prices and Benefits: Many plans listed on Policybazaar.ae come with added benefits (PB Advantage) that you won’t get elsewhere.
- Easy Purchase & Quick Activation: Buy your plan online in minutes. Most policies are activated within 24–48 hours once documents are submitted.
- After-Sales Support: From policy renewals to claim assistance, the team is available to guide you through every step.
- Trusted Partners: The platform works with well-known insurers like Orient, ADNIC, GIG Gulf, and more. This way, you get the highest quality plans with reliable support.
If you're unsure which semi-comprehensive plan to pick, feel free to connect with us!
Claim Process of Semi-Comprehensive Health Insurance in the UAE
Most insurers in the UAE follow the two methods for claims: cashless claims and reimbursement claims. Let’s understand each type in more detail —
Cashless Claims (within the network)
- Visit a hospital or clinic listed in your plan's network
- Show your insurance card or Emirates ID at the reception
- The medical provider gets approval from your insurer
- Once approved, your treatment begins
- You pay only the co-pay (if any) — the insurer directly settles the rest
Reimbursement Claims (outside the network or UAE)
If you pay out-of-pocket or visit a non-network facility, you can claim reimbursement.
How Does it Work?
- Pay for the treatment and keep all original bills, prescriptions, and reports
- Fill out your insurer’s claim form
- Submit the documents through the insurer’s portal or email within the allowed time (usually 30 days)
- The insurer verifies the claim and reimburses the approved amount to your bank account
Tip: Always check if pre-approval is needed for procedures like maternity, diagnostics, or inpatient treatment.
What does semi-comprehensive health insurance cover in the UAE?
Semi-comprehensive medical insurance usually covers doctor visits, diagnostic tests, branded medications, maternity benefits, and emergency services. Some plans also include dental emergencies, mental health counselling, and alternative therapies within set limits.
Can I go directly to a specialist under a semi-comprehensive plan?
In most cases, yes, but only within approved clinics. Hospital specialist visits are usually covered only during inpatient treatment.
Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Yes, but only if declared during application and approved by the insurer. Coverage is usually limited (e.g., up to AED 150,000 per year) and subject to underwriting.
Is maternity covered in semi-comprehensive plans?
Yes, maternity benefits are included, with coverage up to AED 10,000–12,500 for normal or C-section deliveries. Note that pre-approval is usually required.
How much does semi-comprehensive insurance cost?
Prices start from around AED 1,300 and can go up to AED 8,600 per year, depending on your age, location, and the insurer.
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