Health should always be a priority for all of us, sometimes we worry about other less important things and forget this great truth. In addition, it is well known that medical services usually have a very high cost. So, it is always extremely important that we have an adequate health insurance plan.
In this article, we will break down point by point all the information you need to have health insurance suitable for your needs in the UAE. Along with extra information on some recommendations that you should know.
What is a health insurance plan?
A health insurance plan, or health insurance, is a type of social insurance that fully or partially covers the risk of a person incurring highly expensive medical expenses. As with other types of insurance, the risk is shared among many people (many pay for the insurance. But only a few become ill and cause expenses, which are paid with the contributions of all the insured).
By estimating the overall health risk risk and healthcare system expenditures on the pool of risks, an insurer can develop a routine financial structure. Such as a monthly premium or payroll tax, to provide the money with to pay the medical expenses incurred by those affiliated with the service. The benefit, if any, is administered by a central organization, such as a government agency, private company, or nonprofit entity.
In the United Arab Emirates and many other countries there are two types of health insurance: public and private. There are countries where, strictly speaking, there is no public health insurance, but there is universal health care (universal healthcare), with analogous effects.
What are the the rules that visa recipients must follow regarding medical insurance in the UAE?
Beneficiaries holding a visa in the United Arab Emirates are required to have adequate medical insurance that can help cover the costs of any medical emergency such as an unexpected illness or accident. In addition to this, the health insurance must have a minimum coverage of 100,000 AED (which is about 27 thousand US dollars), and must remain valid for the entire duration of the visa.
Visa holders have the option of purchasing health insurance through an insurance company, whether local or international. There are numerous health insurance plans to choose from, so it is essential to compare costs and coverage before making a decision on the most suitable plan.
How to find the best health insurance plan in UAE?
If you live in Dubai or Abu Dhabi you are subject to the health insurance obligation imposed by these two Emirates, which allows you to be treated in their various public and private medical centers. However, local coverage is not always enough to cover the often very high cost of healthcare, and many expats combine it with international health insurance.
What are the best health insurance in UAE?
There are various health insurance plans in the UAE, and each one can have its advantages and disadvantages depending on the length of time the client wants to be insured and also on their budget.
However, there are undoubtedly some services of this type that stand out more than the others. Here we are going to mention each of them:
- Cigna Global Healthguard: The first of these is Cigna Global Healthguard, this service provides great coverage for medical services. Including hospitalization, surgery, outpatient care and prescription medications. It also includes coverage for dental care, optometry and mental health.
- Aviva International Health: This plan offers similar coverage to Cigna Global Healthguard. But also includes coverage for maternity and fertility care.
- Bupa Global: Finally, we also want to mention Bupa Global. One of the best health insurance companies in Dubai. It offers you more flexible coverage that can be customized to meet individual needs. Without a doubt, this is the best health insurance in Dubai.
How to choose the best health insurance plan?
While there are many options available and a limited period for enrollment, choosing a health insurance plan does not have to be difficult. These are some options to consider when choosing health insurance:
- Employer: Many people get their health insurance through their employer, as employers often pay part of the premium. If you have this option, talk to your employer about what is available.
- Health insurance marketplace: If you do not get health insurance through your employer or prefer to have a personal plan, you can choose and compare health insurance on the state or federal Health Insurance Marketplace.
- Direct purchase: If you prefer not to use the Health Insurance Marketplace, you can purchase health insurance directly from a health insurance company. Many health insurance companies allow you to explore available plan options online or over the phone with a licensed insurance agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s always good to give some basic answers to questions you may be asking. However, it is important that clients always consult their health insurance certificate. And the conditions of their coverage when choosing a service.
Below are some common questions about health insurance in the United Arab Emirates:
What is the price of health insurance plan in UAE?
The cost of health insurance will depend on the plan you choose and your location. The plans generally have lower premiums, but may have higher fees. Supplemental plans have higher premiums but provide more comprehensive coverage.
If you need to find the cheapest health insurance Dubai, we recommend you go here for more information. Here you will also find information about the cheapest health insurance in UAE
Which insurance is best for health in UAE?
In addition to those we mentioned above, another excellent option for health insurance in the United Arab Emirates is EmiratExpat Santé. Health coverage in full compliance with local legislation and coverage of health expenses up to 100% of the actual costs.
Which health insurance is approved in UAE for visa?
In the United Arab Emirates, most visas require holders to have health insurance coverage. The type of health insurance approved may vary depending on the type of visa and ever-changing government regulations. However, health insurance is generally expected to meet certain criteria, such as coverage for emergencies, hospitalization, and basic medical services.
Often, the UAE authorities accept health insurance provided by well-known and reputable companies. Some local and international insurers offer plans specifically designed to meet visa requirements in the United Arab Emirates.
Is healthcare free in UAE for expats?
No, in the UAE healthcare is not free for expats. Unlike some countries that offer free or government-funded health services for residents, in the United Arab Emirates, both citizens and expats generally need to carry some form of health insurance to cover health care costs.
The United Arab Emirates has a high-quality healthcare system, but most medical services are provided through private hospitals and clinics. As we told you previously, these services usually involve very high costs, which is why it is essential that expatriates purchase health insurance provided by private health insurance companies or through their employers to cover any unforeseen expenses.
What is the penalty for not having health insurance in UAE?
The UAE government requires all residents to have health insurance. The penalty for not having health insurance is a fine of AED 5,000 per month for each uninsured adult. Children under 18 years of age are exempt from this penalty.
The fine applies to those who live in the United Arab Emirates for more than 30 days. Residents who are eligible for health insurance provided by their employer or the government are exempt from this penalty.
Conclusion
In the United Arab Emirates, having health insurance is essential, for both citizens and expats. Not only is it a requirement to obtain and maintain residency. But it is also vital to access quality health services in a system that largely relies on private medical facilities. Lack of health insurance can result in fines and other legal consequences, and may affect visa renewals.
It is crucial for those living or planning to move to the United Arab Emirates to:
- inform themselves about the specific requirements of adequate health insurance
- stay up to date with ever-changing regulations
- purchase appropriate coverage to ensure their well-being and comply with government regulations.
Health is an invaluable asset, and having adequate health insurance provides the peace of mind needed anywhere in the world, including the United Arab Emirates.
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