Mental Health Services in UAE: Confidential Options in 2026

Confidential care is now the standard

Since the 2024 federal changes, mental health conditions are treated like any other medical issue. Reporting is no longer required and seeking help does not affect residency or employment. Expats can book appointments directly with licensed clinics without involving sponsors or employers.

Where to go in 2026

Three main routes exist: hospital outpatient departments, specialist clinics, and fully online platforms. All providers must hold a DHA, DOH or MOH licence. The largest networks are NMC Healthcare and Camali Clinic. NMC runs dedicated psychiatry and psychology departments in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Al Ain. Camali operates nine centres across the UAE and accepts same-week bookings for adults and children.

Insurance coverage details

Most employer and family plans now include outpatient mental health. Typical limits are 10–20 sessions per year with a 100–300 AED copay. Inpatient psychiatric care is covered up to 30 days when medically necessary. Always confirm your exact benefits before the first visit by calling the insurer or checking the member portal. If your plan excludes therapy, cash rates at NMC start at 550 AED for an initial psychiatrist assessment and 450 AED for a 50-minute psychology session.

Online and confidential options

Telehealth platforms licensed by DHA and DOH let you speak with a psychologist or psychiatrist from home. Sessions are encrypted and records are stored in UAE data centres. Popular services include:

• Camali Online: same-day video slots, English and Arabic, reports sent directly to you.
• NMC Care app: book follow-ups with your existing NMC doctor without visiting a branch.
• Independent DHA-licensed therapists offering 200–350 AED per session via Zoom or their own secure apps.

No medical record is shared with ICP or your employer unless you sign a release form.

How to start

Book an assessment. You can self-refer; no GP letter is required. Bring Emirates ID or passport copy and your insurance card. The clinician will discuss treatment goals and frequency within the first 30 minutes. Medication, if prescribed, is dispensed at the same facility or any DHA-approved pharmacy.

Employee assistance programmes

Many multinational companies in free zones and mainland offer an EAP that covers 3–6 free sessions. HR is not told the reason for use, only that the benefit was accessed. Check your employee handbook or email HR with the subject line “EAP enquiry” to receive the provider name and access code.

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

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