How to Get Health Insurance in UAE as an Expat

Why Health Insurance Matters in the UAE

Every resident needs valid medical insurance. The requirement applies to visas sponsored by employers, family members, and individuals on freelance or investor visas. Without coverage, the ICP will not issue or renew residency. Most emirates also require proof of insurance before they process new visa applications.

What Employers Must Provide

Under MOHRE rules, companies with employees in the UAE must offer a minimum level of health cover. The policy must meet the DHA or DOH essential benefits table for the emirate where the employee works. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi this includes inpatient and outpatient treatment, maternity after a waiting period, and emergency dental cover. Annual premiums paid by the employer typically start from AED 650 for basic plans and AED 1,800 for enhanced plans that add chronic-condition coverage.

Buying Individual or Family Cover

If you are on a freelance permit, investor visa, or your employer does not cover dependents, you buy your own policy. Compare plans on the DHA portal or through licensed brokers. You need a valid Emirates ID and passport copy. Most insurers require a medical declaration; pre-existing conditions may carry a 6- or 12-month waiting period. Family plans that cover a spouse and up to three children cost AED 7,500-14,000 per year in 2026 depending on ages and emirate.

Recognised Providers in 2026

The main insurers accepted across government and private hospitals are: Daman, Oman Insurance, AXA Gulf, MedNet, and Bupa Middle East. Each offers tiered plans. Daman’s basic Thiqa plan meets Abu Dhabi minimums, while AXA and Oman Insurance dominate Dubai. Check that your chosen hospital network includes the DHA or DOH facilities you prefer. Changing insurers mid-visa is allowed but requires a new insurance certificate submitted to ICP within 30 days.

Renewal and Compliance Checks

Insurance must stay active for the full visa period. ICP systems now cross-check coverage automatically, so gaps can block exit-re-entry visas or family sponsorship. Set a reminder 30 days before expiry. Most providers send renewal notices by email and allow payment in up to three instalments. If you change jobs, ask the new employer for a fresh certificate within the first week to avoid any residency lapse.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Choosing the cheapest plan often means narrow hospital networks or high co-pays. Read the table of benefits for day-surgery limits and chronic-medication coverage. Never rely on travel insurance bought outside the UAE; it does not satisfy ICP requirements. Finally, keep digital and printed copies of the policy certificate, as ICP officers at airports may request it during random checks.

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Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything. Ask Tovi free →

Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →