Healthcare and medical insurance in Dubai
Medical insurance is mandatory for anyone holding a residence visa in Dubai, and your employer is required to provide cover. Knowing what is covered, and how to use it, saves both money and stress.
Insurance is compulsory
- Legal basis: Law No. 11 of 2013 of the Emirate of Dubai requires health insurance for residence-visa holders.
- Minimum standard is the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP): commonly cited figures include an annual cover limit from AED 150,000, a maximum deductible in the region of AED 500 and co-payment up to 20 percent — verify current limits with DHA.
- Federal rules have been extended toward insurance obligations across the emirates; check the current position with DHA / DoH.
Employer insurance and your own policy
- Employees: the employer must provide the policy; ask for the policy details (network, limits, exclusions) at onboarding.
- Dependants: family members on your sponsorship usually also need cover, often at your expense.
- Self-employed, students and retirees often arrange their own policy; premiums depend on age, cover level and family — compare quotes.
Regulators, clinics and pharmacies
- Dubai Health Authority (DHA) regulates healthcare in Dubai; Department of Health (DoH) regulates Abu Dhabi facilities.
- Facilities range from large hospital groups to neighbourhood clinics; check whether your policy's network includes the facility before you go.
- Pharmacies are widespread; some medicines need a prescription. Bring any regular medication with enough supply and check what may be restricted.
In an emergency
- For an emergency call 998 (ambulance); 999 is police and 997 is civil defence.
- Emergency treatment is provided; your insurer's cover then applies to the cost.
- Keep your insurance card and Emirates ID with you.
EBP limits, premiums and insurance obligations change and are set by DHA / DoH. This is not medical or insurance advice; check your policy and the regulators.