Health care in the UAE is excellent but can be expensive without cover. Here is what you need to know about UAE health insurance for expats in 2026.
Is Health Insurance Mandatory in the UAE?
Yes. Health insurance has long been mandatory in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. From 1 January 2025, mandatory employer-funded health insurance was extended to private sector workers in all other emirates – Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.
Who Pays?
- Employers must provide and pay for basic health insurance for their employees.
- Family members (spouse, children) are usually the responsibility of the visa sponsor – often the employee.
- Domestic workers must be insured by their sponsor.
What Does a Basic Plan Cover?
- Doctor visits and consultations
- Emergency treatment
- Hospital stays
- Some medicines and tests
- Maternity in many plans
Basic plans have co-payments and network limits. Higher plans add wider hospital networks, dental, optical and worldwide cover.
How to Choose a Plan
- Check which hospitals and clinics are in the network near you.
- Compare co-payment percentages and annual limits.
- Check waiting periods for maternity and pre-existing conditions.
- Buy from insurers approved by the authorities.
Related Insurance for Workers
UAE workers should also know about the ILOE unemployment insurance scheme and the Workers Protection Programme, which protects wages if a company fails.
Rules, fees and requirements can change. Always confirm the latest details on the official government website before you apply.
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