Health insurance is mandatory for residents in the UAE, with employers typically sponsoring coverage for employees and their dependants. Expats who are self-employed, between jobs, or seeking coverage beyond their employer plan can choose from a range of international and local insurers licensed by the UAE Insurance Authority. Plans vary significantly by network size, annual benefit limit, geographic coverage, and premium cost.
Our top picks at a glance
Cigna Global
Cigna Global is an international health insurer offering modular plans that allow policyholders to build coverage by combining a core hospital plan with optional outpatient, dental, and vision modules. It is widely used by internationally mobile expats who require coverage across multiple countries.
AXA Gulf (now rebranded under GIG Gulf in some markets)
AXA Gulf, operating under the GIG Gulf brand following a regional rebranding, is one of the largest health insurers in the GCC by policyholder volume. It offers both corporate group schemes and individual or family plans with UAE-based hospital networks.
Allianz Care
Allianz Care is the international health division of Allianz Partners, offering expatriate health plans designed for individuals and families living outside their home country. Plans are available with regional or worldwide geographic scope.
How we built this list
Start by identifying your minimum required coverage under UAE law, then consider whether you need international coverage outside the UAE, the size and location of your preferred hospital network, whether you want outpatient and dental included, your annual benefit limit needs, and your monthly or annual budget. Request quotes from multiple providers using the same benchmark: your age, number of dependants, desired benefit limit, and geographic scope. Read the policy wording carefully for exclusions, pre-existing condition clauses, and co-payment structures before signing.
Options available to expats in United Arab Emirates - full breakdown
1. Cigna Global
Cigna Global is an international health insurer offering modular plans that allow policyholders to build coverage by combining a core hospital plan with optional outpatient, dental, and vision modules. It is widely used by internationally mobile expats who require coverage across multiple countries.
Pros
- +Modular plan structure lets you select only the coverage segments you need
- +Worldwide coverage option available including the USA
- +Direct billing arrangements with a broad range of hospitals internationally
- +Dedicated multilingual customer service and 24/7 helpline
Things to know
- -Premiums increase with age and can be higher than locally issued plans
- -USA coverage module adds significant cost if not required
- -Pre-existing conditions may be subject to exclusion periods or additional loadings - check policy terms
2. AXA Gulf (now rebranded under GIG Gulf in some markets)
AXA Gulf, operating under the GIG Gulf brand following a regional rebranding, is one of the largest health insurers in the GCC by policyholder volume. It offers both corporate group schemes and individual or family plans with UAE-based hospital networks.
Pros
- +Extensive direct billing network across UAE public and private hospitals
- +Plans available for individuals, families, and corporate groups
- +Online portal and mobile app for pre-authorisation and claims tracking
- +Range of plan tiers to suit different coverage levels
Things to know
- -Geographic coverage on entry-level plans may be limited to the UAE only - confirm scope before purchasing
- -Pre-authorisation is required for some procedures - check the policy schedule
- -Network hospitals vary by plan tier - verify your preferred hospital is included
3. Allianz Care
Allianz Care is the international health division of Allianz Partners, offering expatriate health plans designed for individuals and families living outside their home country. Plans are available with regional or worldwide geographic scope.
Pros
- +Choice of geographic coverage zones including worldwide excluding USA, worldwide including USA, and regional options
- +Strong global hospital network with direct billing in many countries
- +Established international brand with a long operating history in expatriate markets
- +Optional add-ons including dental, optical, and evacuation cover
Things to know
- -Plan complexity can make direct comparisons with simpler products more time-consuming
- -Premiums for comprehensive worldwide plans can be substantial - obtain a personalised quote
- -Some benefits carry sub-limits - review the full benefit schedule carefully
4. Bupa Global
Bupa Global provides international private health insurance for individuals, families, and corporate clients with a focus on higher-benefit limits and access to specialist care. It is frequently chosen by expats who want access to private hospitals globally.
Pros
- +High annual benefit limits on upper-tier plans
- +Access to Bupa's international hospital and specialist network
- +Chronic condition management and second medical opinion services included on certain plans
- +24/7 multilingual support
Things to know
- -Plans are positioned at the higher end of the premium range - compare quotes carefully
- -Not all plans include outpatient cover as standard - check the plan schedule
- -Pre-existing conditions are subject to individual underwriting - disclose fully at application
5. Daman (National Health Insurance Company)
Daman is the UAE's largest health insurer by covered lives and is the designated provider of the Basic Benefit Plan in Abu Dhabi. It offers a range of plans from mandatory basic coverage to enhanced individual and family products.
Pros
- +Designated provider of mandatory Basic Benefit Plan for Abu Dhabi visa holders
- +Extensive network of UAE hospitals and clinics under direct billing
- +Government-backed entity with deep familiarity with UAE regulatory requirements
- +Online and app-based claims and pre-authorisation services
Things to know
- -Coverage is primarily UAE-focused - international coverage is limited on entry-level plans
- -The Basic Benefit Plan is designed to meet minimum legal requirements, not comprehensive private care
- -Enhanced plans are required for access to broader private hospital networks - confirm network before purchasing
6. Nextcare / MSH International
Nextcare is a third-party administrator (TPA) and insurer operating across the GCC, offering health plans and claims management services. MSH International is its parent brand, with a background in expatriate and travel health insurance globally.
Pros
- +Established TPA infrastructure meaning faster claims processing through its own systems
- +Plans available for individuals, families, and SME groups
- +Network includes hospitals across the UAE and selected international facilities
- +Experience with multinational and mixed-nationality employee groups
Things to know
- -As a TPA as well as an insurer, confirm whether your plan is underwritten by Nextcare directly or a third-party insurer
- -Plan options may be less well known to HR departments compared with larger branded insurers - verify employer acceptance if relevant
- -Check the benefit schedule carefully for sub-limits on specialist care
7. Orient Insurance
Orient Insurance is a UAE-based insurer with a significant share of the local health insurance market, offering individual and group medical plans underwritten domestically. It is part of the Al Futtaim Group.
Pros
- +UAE-based insurer with locally underwritten policies, which can simplify claims and regulatory queries
- +Range of plan tiers from basic to comprehensive
- +Direct billing network across UAE hospitals
- +Group schemes available for businesses of various sizes
Things to know
- -International coverage outside the UAE is limited or unavailable on standard plans - confirm geographic scope
- -Less suited to expats who travel frequently or require global coverage
- -Plan details and network lists should be reviewed annually as they can change
Comparison table
| Name | Verdict | Fees | Regulator | Min deposit | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cigna Global | Cigna Global is an international health insurer offering modular plans that allow policyholders to build coverage by combining a core hospital plan with optional outpatient, dental, and vision modules. It is widely used by internationally mobile expats who require coverage across multiple countries. | Varies by age, plan tier, and selected modules - see official website | Regulated in the UAE by the Insurance Authority; international entity regulated in its country of incorporation | See official website | |
| AXA Gulf (now rebranded under GIG Gulf in some markets) | AXA Gulf, operating under the GIG Gulf brand following a regional rebranding, is one of the largest health insurers in the GCC by policyholder volume. It offers both corporate group schemes and individual or family plans with UAE-based hospital networks. | Varies by plan tier, age, and number of dependants - see official website | Insurance Authority, UAE | See official website | |
| Allianz Care | Allianz Care is the international health division of Allianz Partners, offering expatriate health plans designed for individuals and families living outside their home country. Plans are available with regional or worldwide geographic scope. | Varies by age, coverage zone, and plan level - see official website | Regulated in its country of incorporation; policies sold in the UAE are subject to UAE Insurance Authority oversight | See official website | |
| Bupa Global | Bupa Global provides international private health insurance for individuals, families, and corporate clients with a focus on higher-benefit limits and access to specialist care. It is frequently chosen by expats who want access to private hospitals globally. | Varies by plan tier, age, and geographic scope - see official website | Regulated in its country of incorporation; subject to UAE Insurance Authority requirements for UAE-resident policyholders | See official website | |
| Daman (National Health Insurance Company) | Daman is the UAE's largest health insurer by covered lives and is the designated provider of the Basic Benefit Plan in Abu Dhabi. It offers a range of plans from mandatory basic coverage to enhanced individual and family products. | Varies by plan and eligibility category - see official website | Insurance Authority, UAE; Abu Dhabi Health Authority (HAAD/DoH) for Abu Dhabi-specific plans | See official website | |
| Nextcare / MSH International | Nextcare is a third-party administrator (TPA) and insurer operating across the GCC, offering health plans and claims management services. MSH International is its parent brand, with a background in expatriate and travel health insurance globally. | Varies by plan design and group size - see official website | Insurance Authority, UAE | See official website | |
| Orient Insurance | Orient Insurance is a UAE-based insurer with a significant share of the local health insurance market, offering individual and group medical plans underwritten domestically. It is part of the Al Futtaim Group. | Varies by plan tier and applicant profile - see official website | Insurance Authority, UAE | See official website |
What to check yourself before signing up
- 1.Regulator and licence. Look the provider up on the public register of the relevant regulator before depositing money.
- 2.Current fees. Pricing pages on provider sites are usually the most current source. Read the schedule of charges, not just the marketing copy.
- 3.Eligibility for United Arab Emirates residents. Confirm with the provider that your residency, nationality, and tax status are accepted.
- 4.Onboarding requirements. Check the list of documents and any minimum deposit before starting.
- 5.Customer support. Find the support contact channels and hours; an issue raised at 2am is easier to resolve when you already know who to message.
Frequently asked questions
- Is health insurance mandatory for expats in the UAE?
- Yes. Health insurance is mandatory for all residents in the UAE. In Dubai, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) mandates that employers provide health coverage for employees and their dependants. In Abu Dhabi, the Department of Health requires all visa holders to be covered under a licensed health plan, including domestic workers. Sponsors are responsible for arranging coverage for dependants on their visa.
- What is the difference between a local UAE health plan and an international health plan?
- A local UAE plan covers treatment within the UAE network specified in your policy. An international health plan typically extends coverage to multiple countries or worldwide, making it more suitable for expats who travel frequently, are considering relocation, or want access to treatment in their home country. International plans generally carry higher premiums.
- What does the UAE Basic Benefit Plan cover?
- The Basic Benefit Plan (BBP) applies in Abu Dhabi and is the minimum level of coverage required for visa holders there. It covers a defined set of essential health services including emergency treatment, maternity, and chronic disease management. It does not cover all private hospital services or specialist care. Residents seeking broader coverage should consider an enhanced plan on top of or instead of the BBP.
- Can I get health insurance in the UAE if I am self-employed or between jobs?
- Yes. Several insurers offer individual health plans that do not require employer sponsorship. You can purchase these directly from licensed insurers or through a licensed insurance broker in the UAE. Premiums will typically be higher than group rates offered through employers.
- What does co-payment mean in UAE health insurance?
- A co-payment is a fixed percentage or amount that the policyholder pays out of pocket for each claim or visit, with the insurer covering the remainder. For example, a plan may require a co-payment for outpatient consultations. Co-payment structures vary by plan and provider - review the policy schedule before purchasing.
- Are pre-existing conditions covered under UAE health insurance?
- Coverage for pre-existing conditions varies by plan and insurer. Some plans exclude pre-existing conditions entirely, others impose a waiting period before covering them, and some cover them subject to a premium loading. Disclose all pre-existing conditions accurately at the time of application. Failure to disclose can result in claims being rejected.
- Which regulator oversees health insurance in the UAE?
- Health insurance in the UAE is regulated by the Insurance Authority at the federal level. In Abu Dhabi, the Department of Health (DoH) sets mandatory health benefit requirements for residents. In Dubai, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) oversees the mandatory health insurance framework for employers and employees. Always verify that your insurer is licensed by the relevant UAE authority.
- Does my UAE health insurance cover treatment outside the UAE?
- This depends on your specific plan. Many locally issued UAE plans cover treatment only within the UAE. Plans with regional or worldwide coverage are available from international health insurers and some local providers at a higher premium. Check your policy schedule for the geographic scope and any conditions on overseas treatment, such as pre-authorisation requirements.
Official sources
Verify regulatory status and licences: DFSA Public Register.