Family health insurance in the UAE: rules and costs by emirate

Who pays, by emirate

Family health insurance UAE: what it costs

Costs depend on age, the plan and the hospital network. A basic plan for a child can start from around AED 500 to 1,200 a year, and an adult basic plan from around AED 600 to 1,500. Mid-range and comprehensive plans cost far more, and a family of four on a good plan can pay AED 17,000 or more a year. In our calculator we use a mid-range figure per dependant for each emirate.

Rules parents miss

For family health insurance UAE requirements, check current rules with the Dubai Health Authority.

• Newborns must be added to a policy within 30 days of birth in Dubai.
• Maternity cover usually has a 10 to 12 month waiting period, so buy early if you are planning a baby.
• Schools may ask for proof of insurance at enrolment.
• Visas for dependants cannot be issued or renewed without valid cover.

How to save

• Ask if your employer offers family cover as a paid upgrade. Group rates are often cheaper.
• Compare the hospital network, not just the price.
• Check the co-pay and annual limit for outpatient visits.

For more detail, see our guide on family health insurance in Dubai.