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Health Insurance in Dubai, UAE

Health Insurance helps you navigate unplanned medical expenses. Apart from being a mandatory requirement, health insurance Dubai protects you from expensive medical bills and treatments. It helps reduce the financial burden of costly medical treatments and protects you and your family against financial loss due to unexpected health issues. From routine check-ups to major surgeries, choosing the right insurance plan is vital so that it will cover all your medical needs. ...read more

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What is Health Insurance in UAE?

Health insurance, also known as medical insurance, is a type of policy that covers your medical expenses. It includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries and sometimes prescription drugs. In exchange for a monthly premium, the insurance company shares the cost of your healthcare, which reduces the financial burden of expensive treatments.

With the right health insurance in uae, you are better prepared for unexpected medical emergencies and can access quality healthcare without worrying about overwhelming costs. It also promotes regular health monitoring and helps prevent serious conditions through early intervention.

Top Health Insurance Dubai Plans - 2026

Explore Tailored Health Insurance UAE Plans to Safeguard Your Future

Clinic Only
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Outpatient services are limited to clinics & general practitioner. To access a hospital for outpatient a referral is required from your GP. If you need to go to a hospital, you'll need your doctor's approval. This is local coverage with a limited network of hospitals and clinics available Please note, you can access a hospital (within the network) during life threatening emergency situations.
Takaful Emarat
Takaful Emarat
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
E CARE Blue
Clinic and GP Only
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Outpatient services are limited to clinics, However you can direct meet with a specialist with these plans. If you need to go to a hospital, you'll need your doctor's approval. This is local coverage with a limited network of hospitals and clinics available Please note, you can access a hospital (within the network) during life threatening emergency situations.
HAYAH Insurance
HAYAH Insurance
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
Blue
Clinic With Specialist
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Outpatient services are limited to clinics, However you can direct meet with a specialist with these plans. If you need to go to a hospital, you'll need your doctor's approval. This is local coverage with a limited network of hospitals and clinics available Please note, you can access a hospital (within the network) during life threatening emergency situations.
Orient Insurance
Orient Insurance
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
NEXTCARE RN3
Clinic + Hospital Access
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You can see specialists and visit local clinics and hospitals directly. Certain plans provide coverage both in your home country and abroad (outpatient would be on a reimbursement bases and emergency situations are covered on a direct billing basis within network). This plan even covers some dental and optical expenses.
Cigna
Cigna
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
General
Clinic + Hospital Access
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You can see specialists and visit local clinics and hospitals directly. Certain plans provide coverage both in your home country and abroad (outpatient would be on a reimbursement bases and emergency situations are covered on a direct billing basis within network). This plan even covers some dental and optical expenses.
GIG Gulf (Previously AXA)
GIG Gulf (Previously AXA)
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
In-house A1
Clinic and GP Only
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Outpatient services are limited to clinics, However you can direct meet with a specialist with these plans. If you need to go to a hospital, you'll need your doctor's approval. This is local coverage with a limited network of hospitals and clinics available Please note, you can access a hospital (within the network) during life threatening emergency situations.
Fidelity United
Fidelity United
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
PCP- C Network
Clinic Only
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Outpatient services are limited to clinics & general practitioner. To access a hospital for outpatient a referral is required from your GP. If you need to go to a hospital, you'll need your doctor's approval. This is local coverage with a limited network of hospitals and clinics available Please note, you can access a hospital (within the network) during life threatening emergency situations.
Dubai Insurance
Dubai Insurance
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
DubaiCare Next
Clinic With Specialist
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Outpatient services are limited to clinics, However you can direct meet with a specialist with these plans. If you need to go to a hospital, you'll need your doctor's approval. This is local coverage with a limited network of hospitals and clinics available Please note, you can access a hospital (within the network) during life threatening emergency situations.
Orient Takaful Insurance
Orient Takaful Insurance
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
NEXTCARE RN3
Clinic With Specialist
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Outpatient services are limited to clinics, However you can direct meet with a specialist with these plans. If you need to go to a hospital, you'll need your doctor's approval. This is local coverage with a limited network of hospitals and clinics available Please note, you can access a hospital (within the network) during life threatening emergency situations.
RAK Insurance
RAK Insurance
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
NEXTCARE RN3
Dubai National Insurance
Dubai National Insurance
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
Network - PCP/RN3
Clinic With Specialist
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Outpatient services are limited to clinics, However you can direct meet with a specialist with these plans. If you need to go to a hospital, you'll need your doctor's approval. This is local coverage with a limited network of hospitals and clinics available Please note, you can access a hospital (within the network) during life threatening emergency situations.
Adamjee
Adamjee
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
MEDNET Silk Road
Clinic and GP Only
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Outpatient services are limited to clinics, However you can direct meet with a specialist with these plans. If you need to go to a hospital, you'll need your doctor's approval. This is local coverage with a limited network of hospitals and clinics available Please note, you can access a hospital (within the network) during life threatening emergency situations.
Watania Takaful (Previously Noor Takaful)
Watania Takaful (Previously Noor Takaful)
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
NAS-VN
Clinic + Hospital Access
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You can see specialists and visit local clinics and hospitals directly. Certain plans provide coverage both in your home country and abroad (outpatient would be on a reimbursement bases and emergency situations are covered on a direct billing basis within network). This plan even covers some dental and optical expenses.
Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company
Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
MSHI Bronze
Clinic + Hospital Access
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You can see specialists and visit local clinics and hospitals directly. Certain plans provide coverage both in your home country and abroad (outpatient would be on a reimbursement bases and emergency situations are covered on a direct billing basis within network). This plan even covers some dental and optical expenses.
Allianz
Allianz
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
In-house
Clinic + Hospital Access
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You can see specialists and visit local clinics and hospitals directly. Certain plans provide coverage both in your home country and abroad (outpatient would be on a reimbursement bases and emergency situations are covered on a direct billing basis within network). This plan even covers some dental and optical expenses.
Sukoon Bupa
Sukoon Bupa
Network
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The list of hospitals & clinics where your health insurance plan can be applied.
Premium Network
Plans shown as per selected filters. T&Cs apply

Key Features of Health Insurance in UAE

Parameters Insurance Benefits Offered
Health Insurance Cost Starting at AED 4/Day
Coverage Amount Up to AED 5 million
Minimum Entry Age 0 years ( Newborn Baby )
Maximum Entry Age 99 years
Process for Claim Policybazaar UAE Portal & Insurer Portals
Claim procedure Cashless or Reimbursement
Who Should Buy Self, Family, Domestic Workers, Investor
Covered In-Patient Service, Out-Patient Service, Maternity Coverage
Buy/Renew Process Online
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AED 1 million Health cover starting @4/Day
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Directly from experts

Our sole focus is on streamlining and enhancing the entire journey of our customers' policy ownership, starting from the moment of purchase through the claims process. With a dedicated team of health insurance claim specialists, we are committed to overcoming challenges, whether it's dealing with denied claims, expediting pending claims, managing document submissions, or providing assistance round the clock.

Toshita Chauhan
Business Head - Health Insurance
Toshita Chauhan

How Does Health Insurance in UAE Work?

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A health insurance policy covers your medical expenses for a period of one year
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You pay a premium to get coverage for medical treatments as per the chosen plan
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File a cashless claim if you seek medical treatment within the hospital network
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Request reimbursement claim to pay out-of-pocket medical bills
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If no claim is made, you may be eligible for a No Claim Bonus
It is best to buy a policy early to secure a medical insurance dubai plan at an affordable premium.
Health Insurance Works

How Medical Insurance Policy Works?

Buying a Policy
 
Buying a Policy 
Omar, a 25-year-old male with a healthy lifestyle and no pre-existing conditions. He plans to buy health insurance.
Choosing Coverage
 
Choosing Coverage
He chooses a policy with AED 500,000 coverage at an affordable monthly premium.
Medical Emergency
 
Medical Emergency
8 months later, Omar meets with an accident and needs hospitalisation with a bill of AED 180,000.
Cashless Treatment
 
Cashless Treatment
His claim settles the bill directly with the hospital, and the remaining amount is left for future. 

Best Health Insurance Dubai Plans in 2026

List of best Health insurance Dubai plans and their features —

Insurance Company

Medical Insurance Cover and Network Hospital Best For

Features

View Plans

Sukoon Insurance

Cover: AED 5 Million

Network Hospitals: 1500 +

Best for Budget
  • DHA Essential Benefits Plans (EBP) plans available
  • Pre-existing disease cover: Up to AED 150,000
  • Maternity cover and Ambulance cover
  • Lab tests

Dubai Insurance Company

Cover: AED 1 Million

Network Hospitals: 1185 +

Best for Worldwide Coverage
  • Physiotherapy: Up to 15 sessions per year
  • Alternative medicine: Up to AED 1,600
  • Wide medical network and Worldwide coverage

Takaful Emarat 

Cover: AED 1 Million

Network Hospitals: 909 +

Best for Budget
  • Prescription drug cover: Up to AED 10,000
  • Mortal remains’ repatriation: Up to AED 15,000
  • Dental and gum treatment: 20% coinsurance
  • Diagnostics like X-Ray, CT-Scan, and MRI covered

Orient Takaful

Cover: AED 1 Million

Network Hospitals: 1650 +

Best for Custom Plans
  • Individual and group medical insurance
  • Pre-existing disease cover: Up to AED 150,000
  • Psychiatry: Up to AED 10,000

Cigna Insurance

Cover: AED 7.35 Million

Network Hospitals: 1650 +

Best for Worldwide Coverage
  • Physiotherapy: Up to 30 visit covered
  • Worldwide coverage available
  • Alternative medicine (Ayurveda, Homeopathy) covered

See More

 

Types of Health Plans Suitable For
Individual Plan Single adults seeking personal coverage
Family Health Insurance Families wanting inclusive coverage for all family members
Senior Citizens Plan Elderly individuals (usually above 60 years) requiring more frequent medical care
Kids Plan Children and adolescents requiring paediatric care

Health Insurance Types by Coverage Level in UAE

There are majorly three types of health insurance plans in UAE on basis of coverage Level—

Feature Basic Plan Semi-Comprehensive Plan Comprehensive Plan
Annual Limit AED 60,000–250,000 Up to AED 1,000,000 AED 250,000 – several million
Network Limited (UAE only) Wider (UAE + optional regional) UAE + Worldwide (with/without USA)
Inpatient Covered (general ward) Covered (semi-private) Private room
Outpatient Minimal/Not covered Covered with co-pay Fully covered/minimal co-pay
Maternity Usually limited AED 10,000–15,000 AED 20,000–40,000+
Best For Visa compliance Families & value-seekers Frequent travellers, top-tier coverage
Read More

1. Basic Plan: A Basic Plan is the most affordable, entry-level policy designed mainly to meet mandatory visa and regulatory requirements. Typically offered under Dubai’s EBP (Essential Benefits Plan) for low-salary employees, it’s best for individuals looking for budget friendly coverage and require less doctor visits. 

2. Semi-Comprehensive Plan: A Semi-Comprehensive Plan is a balanced mix of affordability and wider coverage, making it ideal for most residents and employers offering group health coverage. This plan is suitable for families, couples, and individuals seeking good coverage without high premiums.

3. Comprehensive Plan: A Comprehensive Plan is the top-tier option offering extensive local and international medical coverage. Some plans even offer concierge-style medical support and access to premium hospitals globally. If you are a frequent traveller, earning high income, or a corporate employee seeking robust coverage, this plan can be a best option for you.

Medical Insurance VS Health Insurance - Explained!

Aspect

Health Insurance

Medical Insurance

Scope of Coverage 

It’s a broader term comprising medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, etc. 

Covers hospitalization costs, surgeries, and some specialist consultations. 

What is covered? 

Medical, dental, vision care, outpatient care (depending on plan). 

Inpatient care, surgeries, emergency room visits. 

Focus 

Offers a wider range of coverage options depending on individual needs. 

Primarily covers costs associated with hospital stays and major medical events. 

Network

You get access to a wider network of clinics and hospitals. 

You get access to a limited network of clinics and hospitals. 

Preventive care Mostly covers preventive care services. May not cover preventive care expenses for vaccinations and checkups.
Cost Costs are lower for premiums as coverage is limited. Costs are higher for premiums as it offers comprehensive coverage.

When to Buy Health Insurance Plans in Dubai, UAE?

It’s advised you purchase a trusted health insurance in UAE, as soon as you move to Dubai. Generally, pre-existing conditions are typically not covered for a certain period after moving to Dubai (usually for 30 to 90 days). However, getting medical insurance early ensures you are covered after this waiting period.

Also, if you are planning to start a family, make sure to consider health insurance dubai plans that cover maternity and childcare. 

Why Is Health Insurance Mandatory in Dubai, UAE?

Health insurance is a legal requirement for all residents in Dubai and across the UAE. As per the laws, every individual, whether working or living in the country, must have access to essential healthcare services without facing heavy financial burdens.

The government introduced mandatory medical insurance in Dubai to — 

  1. Protect public health by ensuring that everyone has access to basic medical care
  2. Reduce pressure on public hospitals by encouraging people to use private medical facilities covered by insurance
  3. Ensure visa compliance because valid health insurance is now a requirement for renewing or issuing residency permits.
  4. Support employers and workers, as the government offers affordable health packages to reduce costs for businesses while ensuring employee well-being.

From January 1, 2025, employers in the UAE are required to purchase a basic medical insurance dubai policy for their employees to process residency visas. This policy covers essential medical services and includes affordable treatment options through approved networks. The initiative also helps families of workers gain access to similar health benefits. In most cases, dependents can be added to the same insurance plan for a nominal cost.

Fines & Penalties for Not Having Health Insurance in UAE 

Health insurance is mandatory in the UAE. Failing to comply as an individual or an employer can lead to strict penalties, fines and visa-related restrictions. 

Penalties for Individuals (Residents / Employees / Dependents)

Violation

Penalty

No valid health insurance (Dubai - Law No. 11 of 2013)

AED 500/month until health insurance is obtained.

No insurance for dependents (e.g., spouse, children, housemaid)

AED 500/month per dependent.

Visa renewal application without proof of health insurance

Visa application is suspended until valid insurance documentation is submitted.

Submitting fraudulent health insurance documents

Fines, legal proceedings and potential visa cancellation or deportation.

Source: Mohre

5 Reasons Why You Should Buy Medical Insurance in Dubai, UAE

Medical insurance dubai plans covers your medical and hospitalization expenses, in the event of a health emergency. Here are a few reasons why you should have a health insurance plan beyond the mandatory scheme.

1. Financial protection from unexpected medical bills

It’s always better to have the right medical insurance coverage so that you can protect your finances from costly medical bills.

2. Coverage for a wide range of medical treatments and procedures

Usually, most health insurance policies cover a wide range of medical treatments and procedures. If not planned for, these expenses can drain your savings.

3. Access to better hospitals and healthcare providers

Choosing the right health insurance plan is critical to you having access to the best hospitals and healthcare providers, especially in the case of a medical emergency, when you need the best care and treatment.

4. Coverage for preventative care

Most people do not consider the expenses they are likely to incur for preventive care. A good health insurance policy will ensure you can meet any out-of-pocket expenses, including preventive care without hospitalization.

5. Peace of mind knowing you're covered in case of an emergency

 The best part about having a good health insurance policy is that it helps you focus on recovering faster without having to stress about costly medical bills.

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AED 1 million Health cover starting @4/Day

Things to Know Before Buying a Health Insurance in UAE

Do your research before purchasing medical insurance dubai plans. Consider the following points before making a purchase... 

Types of health insurance plans 

Most health insurance plans offer Basic, Semi-Comprehensive and Comprehensive plan. Pick one that fits your requirements.   

Policy Coverage

Dubai health plans typically cover in-patient care (hospitalization) and out-patient services (OPD) like doctor visits and tests. Maternity coverage may be included, but dental and vision are usually offered as separate plans. So, read the policy offer document carefully, so that you do not miss out on any hidden clauses. 

Factors to consider when choosing a medical insurance dubai plan

 Always factor in your age, medical history, budget, and coverage needs, before choosing a plan. Some health insurance plans have riders and clauses and may not cover all your medical requirements. Hence, it’s vital to consider these factors while selecting a health insurance policy for yourself and your family. 

Review feedback

See what customers have to say about the insurance companies' service and overall experience.  

Know more about the waiting period

Consult the medical insurance dubai agent about the waiting period for certain medical conditions and treatments. 

Ask about No-Claim Bonus

Enquire about the discounts available for not making medical claims, resulting in more savings. 

Discover more about the claim process

It’s vital to know the procedure to be followed while filing medical insurance claims and receiving reimbursements, especially in the case of emergencies. Also, ask about in-paitent and out-patient health insurance. 

How Can I Get Low-Cost Health Insurance Plans in UAE?

Finding affordable health insurance in UAE takes a bit of planning. Here are some tips to help you get the right coverage without paying more than you need to — 

  1. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute: Leaving your Health insurance search until the final days can lead to rushed decisions and higher prices. Take time to review your options, compare policies, and understand what’s included. Rushing often means picking the first plan you see, which might cost more and offer less.
  2. Get Help from Policybazaae Experts: Finding a deal on your own can be challenging. Our Health Insurance advisors know the market well and can help you compare multiple plans in less time. We can guide you toward plans that offer good coverage at better prices.
  3. Focus on Value, Not Just Cost: Choosing the cheapest policy might seem like a win, but it could leave you underinsured when you actually need care. Always check what’s included, like specialist visits, hospital access, or maternity benefits, and make sure it meets your needs. The goal is to get the best value for your budget, not just the lowest number.

Health Insurance Inclusion & Exclusions in Dubai

  • What is covered under health insurance ?

  • What is not covered under health insurance ?

Before starting the process to buy health insurance, first understand the key inclusions and exclusions —

  • In-Patient Service - Hospital accommodation, ambulance service, emergency treatment, repatriation costs, and pre-existing conditions 
  • Out-Patient Service - Newborn cover, laboratory tests ( X-ray, CT-Scan, and MRI ), physiotherapy treatment, and more
  • Maternity Coverage - In-patient and out-patient services, complications, miscarriage and legal abortion coverage
  • Pre-Existing and Chronic Conditions - Each provider has its own coverage features and rules for pre-existing and chronic diseases.
  • Vaccines and Preventive Services - Covered as per the schedule of the policy
  • Emergency Cases - Hearing, Vision, Dental and Gum Treatment
  • Physiotherapy Treatment - A certain number of sessions per member are covered by some plans 

While the exclusions of the plans by top Medical insurance companies vary as per the chosen plan, some of the general exclusions are as follows — 

  • Surgical and non-surgical treatment for obesity
  • Cosmetic surgeries
  • Growth hormone therapy unless medically suggested
  • Services and treatments for contraception, sex transformation, or sterilisation
  • External prosthetic devices and medical treatment
  • Treatments required due to injuries caused by professional sports activities

What are the Eligibility Criteria to Buy Medical Insurance in UAE ?

Category

Eligibility / Requirement

Age

0 to 99 years

Residency Status

Must be a resident of Dubai with a valid Emirates ID

Tourists & Visitors

❌ Not eligible under mandatory health insurance schemes

Employment Status

Mandatory for all employers to insure employees — dependents must be covered by sponsors

Domestic Workers

Required to be insured by their sponsor (household employer)

Documents Required to Renew or Buy Medical Insurance in Dubai, UAE

Here is a checklist of the documents commonly required for buying Medical insurance in UAE —

  • Original Emirates ID
  • Original passport
  • Original residence visa (applicable to expatriates) 

Note: The concerned insurance provider may require additional documents as per its requirements.

Health Insurance TPA - Third Party Administrator in UAE

How to File a Medical Insurance Claim in Dubai?

In the UAE, policyholders can make both cashless and reimbursement claims. Mentioned below are the general steps for both types of claims —

Cashless Claims

  1.   Go through the list of network hospitals mentioned in your policy document.
  2.   Select your preferred hospital and get in touch with its insurance help desk.
  3.   Provide your policy details and fill in the pre-authorisation form.
  4. Upon submitting the form and other details, your claim process will be initiated and the hospital bills will be directly settled between your insurance company and the hospital.

Reimbursement Claims

  1. You can go to any hospital or clinic, inside or outside the UAE — even if it’s not in your insurer’s network
  2. Settle the full bill yourself at the time of treatment
  3. Collect all the necessary documents like 
    1. Original payment receipts
    2. Doctor’s report
    3. Itemised invoices
    4. Diagnostic reports and more 
  4. Download and fill up the reimbursement form, which you’ll find on your insurer’s website or customer portal 
  5. Submit your health insurance claim through email, insurer’s app, or online portal
  6. The insurer will review and verify the documents — additional details may be requested if needed
  7. Upon approval, the amount is transferred to your registered bank account

How to Renew Health Insurance Policies in Dubai ?

With Policybazaar.ae, you can buy and even quickly renew medical insurance dubai plans online. If you purchased from our platform, simply follow these steps —

  1. Log into your Policybazaar.ae account.
  2. On the dashboard, a list of your insurance plans will appear.
  3. Locate and select your health insurance plan that has to be renewed.
  4. Choose the option to renew the policy and review it.
  5. Make customisations, if required, and follow the prompted steps to proceed with the renewal process.

Note: Once renewed, the policy details will be sent to your registered email ID.

If you got your plan from another platform, you can fill up the lead form in the health insurance section of Policybazaar.ae. One of our representatives will connect with you and guide you through the renewal process.

FAQ about Health Insurance in UAE

  • Health Insurance
  • Claim
  • Coverage
Can I buy more than 1 Medical insurance in UAE?
No. According to UAE law, you cannot have dual health insurance in UAE. Each person must have only one health insurance policy.
Can I cancel my Medical insurance at any time?
No, you generally cannot cancel your medical insurance anytime in the UAE. Some insurers offer a 30-day cooling-off period, but this is not standard practice. Cancellation is usually allowed only in specific cases like visa cancellation or death. Always check your insurer’s terms.
Is it possible to switch to a new health insurer at any time?
Yes, you can switch to a new health insurer but with certain restrictions. You usually have to wait for the renewal period or meet special criteria such as job changes or visa updates. Mid-year switching is restricted.
Which is the best health insurance plan?
There is no single “best” health insurance plan for everyone, but the top-rated health insurance plan in the UAE in 2026 include — NE-Med, NE Med Lite, I-Med, D-Med (HSB), E-Med PCP-RN3.
Is health insurance free in UAE?
Individual health insurance is not free in the UAE for most residents. Emirati citizens receive free or subsidised healthcare through government programs like Saada (Dubai) and Thiqa (Abu Dhabi). However, expatriates, residents, and tourists must buy health cover — either through employers, sponsors, or independently. Just note that health cover provided by employers is usually free.
Why do I need health insurance if I am young and healthy?
Even if you are healthy today, a sudden illness, accident, or surgery can be very expensive in the UAE. Buying health insurance early usually means lower premiums and fewer exclusions. It also means you finish waiting periods sooner. This way, when you really need medical insurance later, you already have full protection.
Who regulates health insurance in the UAE?
Regulation depends on the emirate: Dubai: Dubai Health Authority (DHA) Abu Dhabi: Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH, earlier HAAD) Federal level and other emirates: the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and local authorities
Who is responsible for providing my health insurance in Dubai?
If you are employed by a Dubai-licensed company, your employer must provide a health insurance Dubai policy that meets DHA rules. If you are a sponsor (for example, of your spouse, children, or domestic worker), you are responsible for arranging their medical insurance Dubai.
Can I buy health insurance in Dubai if I am a freelancer or self-employed?
Yes. If you are a freelancer, self-employed, or between jobs, you must arrange your own health insurance Dubai plan. Several insurers and brokers offer DHA-compliant basic and enhanced medical insurance plans designed for such profiles.
Can I buy health insurance without having a job?
Yes, you can buy health insurance even if you don’t have a job. Many insurers in the UAE allow individuals to buy personal or family plans. You just need a valid UAE residency and a sponsor for your visa.
Who cannot get health insurance in UAE?
Most residents can get health insurance, but some plans may deny or limit coverage for certain medical conditions or treatments. Short-term visitors and people without valid residency are usually not eligible for regular health insurance plans. Some benefits may also be excluded if conditions are not declared.
How much does personal health insurance cost?
Basic personal health insurance in the UAE generally starts from around AED 4 per day. Prices vary based on age, health, and coverage — basic plans are cheaper, while full outpatient and maternity plans cost more. Always check what is included before choosing a plan.
What documents are required for a Medical insurance reimbursement claim?
You usually need the following documents for medical insurance reimbursement claim - filled and signed claim form (by doctor and patient), itemised invoices with treatment and service breakdown, payment proof (receipts, bank slips), and doctor’s prescription and reports if applicable.
How long does it take to settle a reimbursement claim?
It usually takes about 2–3 weeks to settle a health insurance reimbursement claim in the UAE. However, the actual time can vary depending on the insurance provider, the accuracy of your submitted documents and the complexity of the claim. Some insurers may process claims faster, while others might take longer.
In which circumstances can insurance companies deny claim requests?
Health insurance claims can be rejected due to incomplete or missing documents and unlisted services (not covered under the policy). They can also be rejected due to delays in claim submission or excluded conditions (like pre-existing illnesses not disclosed).
How does an insurance claim work?
An insurance claim is a way to ask your insurance company to pay for your medical treatment. If you go to a hospital that is in your insurance network, you don’t need to pay. The hospital will send the bill directly to the insurance company — this is called a cashless claim. If you visit a hospital that is not in the network, you have to pay the bill first. Then, you send the receipts, reports and a claim form to your insurance company. They will check everything and decide if they will pay you back.
What are the 4 stages of Medical insurance claims?
Here are the four steps in Medical insurance claim. The first one is notification, where you inform the insurer about the treatment or medical event, usually through a claim form or online portal. Next is documentation, where you submit all necessary documents such as bills, prescriptions and reports. After that comes assessment, where the insurer reviews your claim to check if it meets policy conditions. Finally, comes the settlement. If approved, the insurer pays the hospital (for cashless) or reimburses you (for reimbursement).
Does UAE health insurance cover all diseases?
UAE health insurance does not cover all diseases. Most common illnesses, emergencies, and chronic conditions are covered, but exclusions apply. Pre-existing conditions may have a waiting period. Similarly, treatments like dental, vision, psychiatric care, and cosmetic procedures are often not included unless specifically added.
What is the most common health insurance coverage?
In the UAE, the most common health insurance coverage is through basic employer-provided plans under government guidelines like DHA Essential Benefits Plan (EBP). These plans include outpatient care, emergency services and basic inpatient coverage with annual limits starting from AED 150,000. They are popular because they meet legal requirements and are affordable for employers.
What is the minimum coverage for DHA?
According to the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), the minimum coverage under the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) includes an annual limit of AED 150,000. For inpatient care, there is a 20% co-payment, limited to AED 500 per visit and a maximum of AED 1,000 per year. The plan also includes outpatient care like doctor visits, diagnostic tests, and minor procedures, with a 25% co-payment capped at AED 100 per visit. This plan is mandatory for low-income workers, dependents, and some visa holders in Dubai.
Are pre-existing conditions covered ?
Yes, most health insurance plans in the UAE — including the basic plans — cover pre-existing conditions. However, a waiting period of upto six months may apply.
Who is eligible for free health insurance?
Free or government-funded health insurance is mainly for UAE nationals under specific programmes like Thiqa. Expat residents usually need to buy their own insurance or get it through their employer.

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