Health insurance is not just a legal requirement in the UAE — it’s a vital necessity for every expatriate living and working here. The rising cost of private healthcare and mandatory health coverage laws have made choosing the best health insurance plan for expats in the UAE more important than ever.
As of 2025, the UAE offers a wide range of medical insurance plans catering to different needs and budgets. From essential benefits plans to comprehensive international coverage, there’s something for every expat — whether you’re living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or the Northern Emirates.
Why Expats Need Health Insurance in the UAE
The UAE government has mandated that all residents, including expats, must have valid health insurance. Without it, visa renewals can be denied, and access to private hospitals becomes nearly impossible.
Aside from legal requirements, having a reliable health insurance plan in the UAE ensures:
- Coverage for hospitalization and surgeries
- Doctor consultations and diagnostics
- Emergency care and ambulance services
- Access to a wide network of clinics and hospitals
For expats, this brings peace of mind in case of unexpected medical issues or family emergencies.
Top 5 Health Insurance Plans for Expats in the UAE
Here are the best health insurance providers for expats in the UAE, carefully selected based on affordability, coverage, network, and customer service.
1. AXA Gulf Health Insurance
- Coverage: Inpatient, outpatient, maternity, and dental (depending on plan)
- Network: 3,000+ hospitals and clinics
- Starting Premium: AED 800/year (Essential Plan)
- Ideal for: Individuals and small families
2. Daman (National Health Insurance Company)
- Government-backed, with strong presence in Abu Dhabi
- Options range from basic to comprehensive
- Offers the Essential Benefits Plan for lower-income expats
- Ideal for: Expats residing in Abu Dhabi
3. Orient Insurance – Bupa Global
- Worldwide coverage including UAE and home country
- High claim limit (up to USD 1 million/year)
- Premium starts from AED 4,500/year
- Ideal for: High-income professionals and frequent travelers
4. Cigna Global Health Insurance
- Offers tailored plans for UAE expats
- Global hospital access with 24/7 multilingual support
- Virtual consultations included
- Ideal for: Expats wanting international-level care
5. Aetna International
- Excellent for corporate employees and business owners
- Direct billing with many hospitals in the UAE
- Wellness programs included
- Ideal for: Corporate expats and long-term residents
These companies offer various tiers based on budget and needs. Comparing features is essential before purchasing.
What to Look for in an Expat Health Insurance Plan
Before committing to any policy, you must know what to prioritize. The best expat health insurance in the UAE should offer:
- Inpatient & outpatient coverage
- Emergency and ambulance services
- Maternity & pediatric care (if applicable)
- Chronic illness treatment
- Access to hospitals near your residence
If you’re planning to live in Dubai, make sure your plan is compliant with DHA (Dubai Health Authority) regulations. For Abu Dhabi, check HAAD compliance.
Budgeting: How Much Does Health Insurance Cost in the UAE?
The cost of health insurance for expats in the UAE can vary based on:
- Age and health history
- Coverage level (basic vs. comprehensive)
- Add-ons like maternity or dental
- Location (Dubai vs. Northern Emirates)
Here’s a general breakdown:
| Coverage Level | Average Annual Premium |
|---|---|
| Basic (Essential Plan) | AED 800 – AED 1,500 |
| Mid-Tier Coverage | AED 2,500 – AED 4,500 |
| Comprehensive / Global | AED 5,000 – AED 10,000+ |
If you’re employed, your employer is required to provide at least basic coverage. However, many expats choose to supplement this with personal insurance in the UAE.
How to Buy Health Insurance as an Expat
Here’s a step-by-step guide to buying health insurance in the UAE as an expat:
- Decide on your coverage needs (e.g. maternity, dental, international)
- Get quotes from multiple providers or comparison websites
- Review the network of hospitals and clinics
- Understand exclusions and co-pay clauses
- Apply online or through a licensed broker
Sites like Policybazaar UAE or YallaCompare make it easy to compare health insurance options in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is health insurance mandatory for expats in the UAE?
Yes. Whether you’re living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, valid health insurance is a legal requirement for all residents.
Which is the best health insurance company in the UAE for expats?
Top choices include AXA Gulf, Daman, Bupa (Orient Insurance), Cigna, and Aetna. The best plan depends on your budget and coverage needs.
Can I use UAE health insurance outside the country?
Some plans like Bupa Global and Cigna offer international coverage. Always check the policy terms before purchase.
How much does expat health insurance cost in the UAE?
Prices start from around AED 800 for basic coverage and go up to AED 10,000+ for comprehensive international plans.
What documents are required for health insurance?
You’ll need your Emirates ID, passport with visa page, and sometimes a medical form or salary certificate.