Health insurance is mandatory in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, making it a crucial requirement for all residents, expats, and business owners. A good medical insurance plan protects you from unexpected healthcare expenses and ensures access to high-quality hospitals and clinics across the UAE.
In 2025, many top-rated providers offer flexible and affordable plans designed to match your lifestyle and budget. Whether you are an individual, a family, or a small business, you can now easily buy health insurance online in UAE and choose from a variety of coverage options.
This article highlights the top 5 health insurance companies in UAE, focusing on real benefits like wide hospital networks, digital claim support, and customer satisfaction. You will also discover how to compare health insurance quotes in UAE effectively.
Use this guide to make a smart, well-informed decision that gives you complete peace of mind.
Essential UAE Health Insurance Benefits
All UAE health plans include core coverage areas. Emergency hospitalization tops the list. This includes ambulance services and ICU care. Basic outpatient consultations come next. Expect 8-12 doctor visits annually.
Maternity coverage is legally required. Plans offer AED 7,000-50,000 for childbirth. Chronic disease management is essential.
Diabetes and hypertension treatments are covered. Most plans include preventative care. Annual check-ups and vaccinations are standard.
Critical add-ons worth considering:
- Dental and optical coverage
- Worldwide emergency protection
- Mental health services
- Physical therapy sessions
Top 5 Health Insurance Companies in UAE
Health insurance is mandatory in the UAE, and choosing the right provider ensures access to quality care, fast claims processing, and peace of mind. Here are the top 5 health insurance companies in the UAE based on customer satisfaction, market presence, network strength, and value-added services.
1. Daman – National Health Insurance Company
Daman is the UAE’s largest health insurer, especially in Abu Dhabi. It offers both public and private sector coverage and serves over 2 million members.
Key Features
- Emirates ID-linked healthcare access
- 100% cashless network in major UAE hospitals
- Thiqa plan for Emiratis and Enhanced/Basic plans for expats
- Comprehensive digital portal and mobile app
- Strong presence in government-linked health services
Best For
- Abu Dhabi residents
- Public sector employees
- Corporate groups needing scalable plans
Daman’s strength lies in its large provider network and government affiliation. It is ideal for residents looking for stability, fast claims processing, and broad UAE coverage. It is a leading choice in Abu Dhabi health insurance plans.
2. AXA Gulf (GIG Gulf) – Flexible Plans for Expats
AXA Gulf, now GIG Gulf, is a trusted brand for expats. It combines international experience with local expertise. It offers highly flexible plans and is known for excellent service.
Key Features
- Global and local coverage options
- Wellness benefits and mental health support
- 24/7 multilingual customer support
- Access to an extensive hospital and clinic network
- Smart mobile app with claim tracking
Best For
- Expat families and individuals
- Frequent international travelers
- Corporate health insurance UAE clients
GIG Gulf offers peace of mind with international coverage and a great mobile experience. It is ideal for those needing tailored solutions and global reach.
3. Sukoon (Oman Insurance) – Strong Chronic and Outpatient Support
Previously known as Oman Insurance, Sukoon is one of the most reliable health insurers in the UAE. It is known for strong outpatient coverage and good chronic disease management.
Key Features
- HealthPlus, DHA-compliant, and flexible plans
- Excellent chronic illness care
- Clear digital claims system
- Inpatient and outpatient treatment access
- Affordable pricing for high-value benefits
Best For
- UAE residents with regular medical needs
- People managing chronic illnesses
- Small families
Sukoon offers high-quality care and reliable claims services. It is perfect for those who want strong local coverage and smooth outpatient support in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.
4. ADNIC – Premium and Global Coverage Plans
Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC) offers high-tier plans with a wide scope of benefits. It is one of the most established insurers in the UAE.
Key Features
- SHIFA Bronze to Platinum tiered health plans
- Coverage up to AED 5 million annually
- Global emergency and elective treatment cover
- Excellent mobile claim support
- Strong inpatient and surgical benefits
Best For
- High-net-worth individuals
- Businesses offering employee benefits
- Travelers and expats seeking full protection
If you want premium benefits and wide global coverage, ADNIC is ideal. It combines strong local access with international peace of mind.
5. Takaful Emarat / Salama – Sharia-Compliant Health Insurance UAE
Takaful Emarat and Salama provide Islamic-compliant (Takaful) health plans. These are designed to follow Sharia law, offering ethical and inclusive healthcare.
Key Features
- Sharia-compliant structure with profit-sharing
- Inpatient, outpatient, dental, and optical cover
- Family-friendly and community-focused
- Available for individuals, small businesses, and groups
Best For
- Muslim families and individuals
- Ethical insurance seekers
- People wanting dental and vision care included
For customers who prefer Islamic values in finance and healthcare, these plans offer peace of mind. Coverage is wide and built on ethical principles.
Key Features of UAE Health Insurance
Understanding what your health insurance plan includes is essential before choosing a provider in the UAE. Here's a breakdown of the most important features included in all legally compliant UAE health insurance policies.
1. Essential Medical Services
Every basic health insurance plan in the UAE must cover:
- Emergency care: Ambulance, ICU, and accident-related treatment
- Hospitalization: Surgery, inpatient room charges, medication
- Outpatient visits: Typically 8–12 visits per year
- Preventive services: Vaccinations and annual health screenings
These services are the foundation of DHA and HAAD-compliant plans.
2. Mandatory Coverage Areas
Most UAE plans offer the following minimum coverage levels:
- Maternity benefits: AED 7,000 for standard delivery
- Chronic disease management: Conditions like diabetes and hypertension fully covered
- Prescribed medications: Included in outpatient and inpatient treatments
- Diagnostic testing: X-rays, scans, blood tests included
3. Optional Add-On Benefits
You can enhance your policy with these extras:
- Dental care: Exams, fillings, cleaning, and extractions
- Optical benefits: Eye tests, lenses, and frames
- Mental health services: Counselling, therapy sessions
- Global coverage: Emergency care abroad, repatriation
Wellness programs: Gym memberships and nutrition support
These add-ons vary by provider and plan tier.
4. UAE-Specific Features
UAE insurers offer features tailored to local regulations and digital infrastructure:
- Emirates ID integration: Use your ID as your insurance card
- Direct billing: Over 2,000 network hospitals and clinics
- Regulatory compliance: Plans aligned with DHA (Dubai) and HAAD (Abu Dhabi) standards
- Emergency evacuation: Air ambulance and cross-border emergency services
5. Health Insurance Costs in UAE
Plan pricing depends on age, health condition, and benefits selected:
- Basic plans: AED 500–800/year
- Mid-tier plans: AED 3,000–7,000/year
- Premium plans: AED 12,000+/year
Compare quotes to find the right balance of price and coverage.
6. Hospital Tier System
Hospital access may depend on your plan’s network:
- Tier 1: Government hospitals: full coverage
- Tier 2: Private network : moderate co-pay
- Tier 3: Premium hospitals : higher co-pay or exclusions
Always review your insurer’s hospital list before booking treatment.
UAE health insurance is designed to provide comprehensive coverage for both residents and expats.
From emergency care to chronic condition management and optional wellness extras, knowing what your plan includes helps you make informed decisions.
87% of claims in the UAE are settled within 72 hours when using network hospitals. Always choose a provider with a strong direct billing network.
How to Choose the Right Health Insurance Plan in UAE
Choosing a health insurance plan is more than price. Consider these factors to get the best coverage.
1. Network Coverage: Access Matters
A wide network means easy access to hospitals, clinics, labs, and pharmacies. Plans with direct billing let you avoid upfront payments. This saves time and hassle.
2. Premium vs. Benefits: Balance Cost and Coverage
Low-cost plans may skip key services like outpatient care or surgeries. Compare premiums with benefits. Choose plans that offer real value.
3. Pre-Existing Conditions: Know Restrictions
Many insurers exclude or delay coverage for pre-existing conditions. Check waiting periods and exclusions. Avoid surprises if you have chronic illness.
4. Digital Access: Convenience Counts
Pick providers with easy-to-use apps and online claims. Digital tools speed up claims and make managing your plan simple.
5. Local vs. Global Coverage: Consider Travel
If you travel often, choose plans with international coverage. This covers emergencies abroad and repatriation.
6. Expat-Specific Plans: Tailored Support
Expats need bilingual support and global emergency care. Look for plans designed for expats living outside their home country.
Conclusion
Choosing the right health insurance plan in the UAE is essential for safeguarding your health and finances.
Understanding key health insurance features, comparing top health insurance providers in UAE, and assessing your personal needs will help you select the best coverage.
Whether you prioritize network hospitals, affordable premiums, or expat health insurance plans, there is a suitable option for every resident.
Always review the insurer’s direct billing network, digital claim services, and coverage benefits before committing.
Taking time to research and compare health insurance companies in Dubai and other emirates ensures comprehensive care and peace of mind.
With the right medical insurance policy in UAE, you can focus on your wellbeing without worry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the minimum health insurance coverage in the UAE?
All residents must have basic coverage that includes emergency care, maternity, outpatient visits, and chronic disease management, as per DHA or DOH rules.
2. Does UAE health insurance work abroad?
Some plans offer international coverage for emergency care and treatments overseas. Check your policy for global benefits.
3. How to check if my hospital is covered?
Insurers provide hospital network lists online. Contact customer support or visit their website to confirm if your hospital is included.
4. Are pre-existing conditions covered?
Coverage varies. Many plans have waiting periods or exclusions. Always read policy terms carefully before buying.
5. How fast are insurance claims processed?
Most claims at network hospitals settle within 72 hours, especially with direct billing options.