Healthcare Services in Dubai

Living in Dubai comes with the advantage of having access to top-notch healthcare services. The city is ranked second as a medical tourism destination due to its high standards in medical facilities and the availability of highly skilled specialists. With a small population, specialized treatments can be obtained without long waiting queues. Both private and public health facilities offer high-quality services, though public medical services may be overcrowded.

Expat Health Insurance in Dubai

Expats in Dubai do not receive free medical services but can obtain reliable medical insurance coverage for unforeseen circumstances.

Public Health Insurance

All employees in Dubai are required by the local government to have health insurance, which reduces the cost of medical services. Health insurance should be provided by the employer and can also cover the employee's family. It is mandatory for obtaining a visa. While the Dubai government covers medical services for its nationals, expat employees are responsible for their own health insurance and their dependents'. The minimum coverage required includes specialist referrals, general physician consultations, emergency services, surgical procedures, tests and investigations, physiotherapy, maternity care, and prescribed medicine. Optical and dental services are usually not included unless they are related to emergencies.

Private Healthcare Insurance

Many expats in Dubai opt for private insurance as it offers more coverage and services than public insurance. Private hospitals are often preferred due to their staff being proficient in languages like English and coming from diverse backgrounds. When choosing health insurance in Dubai, it is advised to research and consider a wide range of plans. Coverage limits, coverage for medical expenses, and the network of clinics and hospitals associated with the insurer should be checked. Some insurance plans even offer regular check-ups and additional benefits like coverage for vision and dental services.

Prescriptions in Dubai

Dubai has strict regulations regarding medication and prescriptions, with certain medications being banned in the UAE. Controlled drugs are only prescribed to patients with chronic or acute conditions according to modern medical practices. However, commonly used drugs worldwide are readily available in local hospitals and pharmacies. If a person needs to bring other prescribed medication with them, they must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Health and Prevention.

General Information on Health Insurance in Dubai

The Dubai Health Authority has set guidelines for minimum health insurance coverage. An employer should include an annual limit of Dh 150,000 per person for all claims. Pre-existing and chronic conditions should be fully covered, subject to a 6-month waiting period if the insured did not have previous coverage of this type in the UAE. The insurance plan should also include inpatient and outpatient treatment cover with a 20% excess. The cost of medicine per person should be covered up to Dh 1,500.

It is important to note that employers are not obligated to provide insurance for dependents of employees. The responsibility of providing insurance for dependents lies solely on the employee, and employers cannot deduct the cost from the employee's salary. Expats without health insurance will not be allowed to renew their visas. The cost of health insurance in Dubai ranges from DH 565 to DH 650.

Dubai is a thriving city with excellent healthcare facilities and a diverse expat population. It is crucial to conduct thorough research on health insurance before relocating to Dubai. While employers are required to provide insurance for employees, it is not mandatory for them to provide insurance for dependents. Private insurance is often relied upon to provide coverage for both employees and their families, as it offers more options and benefits compared to public insurance.