Health Insurance UAE

Living in the UAE as an expat offers an exciting opportunity to experience a dynamic mix of modernity, cultural diversity, and luxury. With a rapidly growing expat population, cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are home to residents from all over the world, drawn by opportunities in industries such as finance, tourism, and real estate.

The UAE offers a tax-free income environment, which makes it an attractive destination for professionals, while the high standard of living ensures access to top-notch amenities and services. However, it’s important to note that the cost of living can be quite high, especially in terms of accommodation and schooling, with rents and private school fees consuming a large portion of many expats’ salaries. Even so, the UAE offers exciting opportunities for expats looking for a new adventure.

Understanding how healthcare services and health insurance operates in the UAE is essential for expats, but selecting the right health insurance plan tailored to their needs is equally critical.

The UAE operates a dual healthcare system consisting of public and private sectors. Public healthcare services are provided by government-run hospitals and clinics, while private healthcare services are delivered by independent medical centres and hospitals.

In the UAE, public healthcare is largely funded by the government and is available to Emirati citizens and, in some cases, expats. However, in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, health insurance is mandatory for expats. These emirates require employers to provide health insurance for their staff, covering basic healthcare services. However, the level of coverage can vary significantly depending on the plan offered by the employer. Many expats opt for additional international health insurance to supplement employer-provided coverage, helping to ensure they can access higher-quality services and a wide range of treatments.

Health insurance coverage in the UAE typically includes hospital stays, doctor consultations, surgeries, and emergency treatments. However, not all treatments may be covered, particularly in the case of pre-existing conditions or certain elective procedures, so it’s vital to review the details of the policy. Expats should also be mindful of the costs associated with healthcare in the UAE, as private care can be expensive without sufficient coverage.

The healthcare system in the UAE is known for its high standard of medical services and modern infrastructure. The country has invested heavily in healthcare, both in terms of public facilities and private care options, with an aim to provide quality healthcare to all residents.

Public hospitals are well-regarded for their high-quality care but can sometimes be more crowded when compared to private facilities. Private healthcare in the UAE is widely used, especially by expats. Most private hospitals and clinics are of international standard, and many are staffed by medical professionals who have trained abroad. These hospitals offer advanced diagnostic services, specialist treatments, and quicker access to medical appointments. However, private healthcare in the UAE can be costly, making comprehensive health insurance an essential requirement for expats. Most private hospitals accept both local and international insurance plans.

In the UAE, health insurance is mandatory for all residents, including expatriates. In major emirates like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, employers are required by law to provide health insurance to their employees, which covers basic healthcare needs, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency care. These plans tend to be more affordable and are often sufficient for routine medical needs. However, the coverage may be limited in terms of access to private hospitals, specialist care, and international healthcare.

For those who want more comprehensive coverage or expect to travel frequently, international health insurance plans are a popular choice. These plans often provide broader coverage, including medical treatment at top hospitals both within the UAE and internationally. This flexibility makes them ideal for long-term expats, families, or those who want more peace of mind knowing they can receive care at leading medical facilities across the globe.

International health insurance policies typically cover a wide range of services, from preventative care and routine check-ups to emergency treatments, surgeries, and specialist care. They also offer the advantage of covering medical expenses in multiple countries, which is particularly useful for expats who may return to their home country for treatments or those who travel often for work.

The UAE offers several visa options for expats looking to live and work there, catering to different professional and personal needs. The most common visa for expats is the Employment Visa, which is typically sponsored by an employer in the UAE. This visa allows the holder to live and work in the country, and it is usually valid for two or three years and will be renewable based on the employment status.

Another option is the Green Visa, which is a more flexible alternative for skilled workers, freelancers, and investors. This five-year residency visa does not require a sponsor and allows holders to sponsor their immediate family members​.

The Golden Visa, a long-term residency visa, is designed for highly skilled professionals, investors, and individuals with exceptional talents. This visa can last up to 10 years, and holders can also sponsor family members​. You’ll need to meet certain criteria, such as owning property over a certain value, making substantial investments, or being a high-level professional to qualify.

The visa application process will differ slightly depending on the type of visa you need. For the Employment Visa, you’ll need to first secure a job. Your employer will then apply for an entry permit on your behalf. Once you have this, you’ll be able to travel to the UAE.

When you arrive in the UAE, you’ll need to undergo a medical examination. This will include blood tests and a chest x-ray. The examination checks to see if you have any infectious disease, such as tuberculosis.

Once you have passed the medical test, your employer will submit the necessary documents to obtain an official labour card and residency visa, which will allow you to live and work in the UAE.

As part of the residency process, you will need to apply for an Emirates ID, which serves as a national identification card. This can be done after the residency visa is approved.

Once the application is processed, the visa is stamped in your passport, which allows you to stay in the country long-term. This process can take a few weeks in total.

The working culture in the UAE is influenced by a blend of traditional values, modern business practices, and international influences.

The official workweek in the UAE is typically Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday being the weekend. However, in recent years the UAE has moved to a Monday-Friday work week – all government entities have adopted this practice and more private sector companies are following suit.

The working hours generally range from 8 to 9 hours a day, although this can vary depending on the industry and employer. During the holy month of Ramadan, working hours are reduced, and employees are expected to adapt to a more flexible schedule​.

UAE workplaces place a significant emphasis on professionalism, respect, and hierarchy. Business communication is often direct, however, it is expected to still be polite and formal. Titles and positions hold importance, and it’s common to address people by their professional titles. A handshake is common for greeting colleagues, but it’s essential to note that physical contact with the opposite gender is discouraged in certain contexts due to cultural norms.

It’s crucial to understand and respect Islamic traditions and local customs for expats to integrate into the workplace in the UAE. The influence of Islam extends to work policies, such as those related to Ramadan and religious holidays, and expats may be expected to adjust their work schedules to accommodate this. Additionally, while the UAE is cosmopolitan, showing respect for local traditions, such as avoiding discussions on sensitive topics like politics or religion, is highly recommended.

The UAE requires all employees to have a written employment contract, either fixed-term or unlimited. Your contract should outline job responsibilities, salary, benefits, and duration. Contracts for non-UAE nationals will be tied to a specific employer or sponsor.

You will typically be entitled to 30 calendar days of paid annual leave per year, although this may vary depending on your employer and the contract. You will be entitled to sick leave, provided you can present a medical certificate. The sick leave is typically for up to 90 days per year, with different pay rates during this period. The first 15 days are paid at full salary, the next 30 at half salary, and after that, no pay is given unless agreed upon with the employer.

Many UAE employment contracts contain a non-compete clause, which restricts employees from joining competitors or starting similar businesses for a set period after leaving the company. These clauses will vary in duration and geographical scope.

The most notable feature of the UAE’s tax system is the absence of personal income tax. Expats in the UAE do not pay tax on their salary, bonuses, or other personal income. This means that employees can keep their full earnings, which is a significant draw for many expats working in the region.

Whilst there is no personal income tax, there is a corporate tax that applies to businesses. In 2023, the UAE introduced a corporate tax on profits exceeding AED 375,000 (approximately USD 102,000), at a rate of 9%. However, there are many free zones that offer tax exemptions to businesses operating within their boundaries, so businesses in these zones may benefit from significant tax relief.

There are no taxes on capital gains or dividends for individuals in the UAE. However, there are certain taxes levied on specific services, such as hotel stays, as well as excise taxes on goods like tobacco and sugary drinks. Additionally, if expats own property in the UAE, they may be subject to property taxes and registration fees.

When living and working in the UAE, it is important for expats to understand the local customs and laws to ensure they respect cultural norms and comply with legal requirements.

While the UAE is a modern and cosmopolitan country, it is still governed by traditional Islamic values. You should dress modestly in public places. For men, this typically means avoiding shorts above the knee, and for women, covering the shoulders and avoiding revealing clothing. Wearing beachwear is acceptable in pool and beach areas but it should not be worn in public spaces.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon and can even lead to legal consequences. It is generally accepted to hold hands with a partner, but kissing or hugging in public may be considered inappropriate. Expats should also avoid engaging in loud arguments or disruptive behaviour and should aim to maintain a calm and respectful demeanour in public.

While alcohol is widely available in bars, hotels, and restaurants in the UAE, its consumption is regulated. Expats are allowed to drink alcohol in licensed venues, but public drunkenness is illegal and can lead to fines or imprisonment. Non-residents can also apply for a personal alcohol licence in certain emirates​, including Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. This will allow you to purchase alcohol from a shop. Sharjah is a dry emirate, meaning the sale and consumption of alcohol is prohibited in public spaces.