Public insurance, primarily for Emirati citizens, covers most medical needs including primary care, hospital treatment, and specialist care within government health facilities. Expats may be treated at government hospitals, but typically must pay for most services unless covered by private insurance.

Citizens receive free or subsidized care. Expats are charged for services and must pay out-of-pocket unless they have insurance that reimburses these costs.

Access to government-run hospitals and clinics; generally high standards for emergency care; citizens receive free care.

Limited to UAE nationals for full coverage; expats generally not eligible except for emergency care and must pay higher costs.

Only citizens and some long-term residents may access government schemes. Most expats rely on private coverage; those eligible can register via government health portals.

Private insurance covers a broad range of outpatient, inpatient, and specialist consultations as well as emergency care. Coverage levels differ by plan, and some offer maternity, dental, and optical coverage.

Costs vary widely by age, coverage, and pre-existing conditions. Employer-provided plans often cover basic costs, but individuals may pay AED 800–6,000 per year for personal coverages.

Fast access to high-quality care; broad choice of facilities and English-speaking professionals; customizable coverage.

May exclude certain conditions; upper limits or co-payments may apply; premiums can be high for comprehensive cover.

All Dubai residents (including expats) are eligible for private insurance, and it is mandatory for residency. Employers must insure employees; dependents must have their own policies.

Compare plans based on coverage area, exclusions, annual limits, and preferred clinic/hospital network.

International health insurance plans for expats provide broad worldwide or regional coverage, flexible choice of providers, and may be useful for frequent travelers or multinational families.

Expat plans often offer higher maximum payouts and regional or global coverage, unlike basic employer private insurance or the local public system. They may be more expensive but provide greater flexibility and continuity across moves.

Expat insurance is for long-term residents and offers routine care, while travel insurance only covers emergencies during trips and is generally not accepted for Dubai visa requirements.

Some expat/global plans may not satisfy the official Dubai health insurance mandate and may lack direct billing relationships with local clinics. Always ensure your coverage is Dubai-compliant.

Limited niche options exist, such as plans for domestic workers, students, or people with specific needs. Some free or subsidized clinics also exist for low-income residents.

European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are not valid in the UAE. EU insurance is not accepted for residents or for emergency treatment.

There are no state-sponsored freelancer/artist insurance options equivalent to KSK in Dubai. All freelancers must purchase private plans individually.

1. Confirm your employer's insurance and request your certificate. 2. Ensure your dependents (spouse, children) are covered. 3. Compare private/ex-pat plans as needed. 4. Register with a clinic or GP near your home.

For help, contact the Dubai Health Authority or your current/future insurance provider. Many major hospitals also have dedicated help desks for expat insurance questions.