The Ultimate Guide to Healthcare in Dubai for Expats (2025)

Dubai is often associated with luxury shopping and breathtaking skyscrapers, but it’s also home to one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the Middle East. With modern hospitals, highly qualified doctors who speak English, and international standards of care, the emirate has become a healthcare hub for both expats and medical tourists.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know as an expat—from understanding the public vs. private system, to health insurance requirements, costs, and how to access medical care once you’ve settled in Dubai.

A Snapshot of Dubai’s Healthcare System

Dubai has built a healthcare network that blends public and private providers under strict regulation.

• Public Sector (DHA facilities): The Dubai Health Authority runs government hospitals and clinics where UAE nationals receive low-cost or free services. Notable hospitals include Rashid Hospital and Latifa Hospital.
• Private Sector: Expats generally use private hospitals and clinics such as Mediclinic, Aster, and NMC Healthcare, which offer a wide range of specialty services.
• Insurance: Health insurance is compulsory for all expat residents, and employers are responsible for providing at least a basic plan. Many people upgrade to more comprehensive coverage for broader access and fewer limits.

Thanks to steady investment and innovation, overall public health in Dubai has improved significantly, with longer life expectancy, reduced child mortality, and access to cutting-edge medical treatments.

Who Gets Free Healthcare in Dubai?

Emirati citizens benefit from free or heavily subsidised healthcare at public hospitals. Expats, however, must purchase an annual health card to access DHA facilities at reduced rates. Without it—or without private insurance—treatment costs can quickly add up.

Funding the Healthcare System

Dubai’s healthcare is financed through government budgets, mandatory health insurance, and out-of-pocket spending. In 2022 alone, AED 3.5 billion (£830m) was allocated to the sector.

For UAE nationals, this ensures affordable access. For expats, employers must provide coverage under the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP)—a basic package that meets DHA requirements. Dependents, however, aren’t always covered by employers, leaving families to arrange private policies separately.

To keep the system sustainable, Dubai is shifting focus toward preventive care, technology (AI, telemedicine), and partnerships with the private sector.

Health Insurance for Expats

For expats, private health insurance isn’t optional—it’s a legal requirement. Employers in Dubai must provide coverage, though many expats choose additional policies for wider benefits.

Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) Coverage

• Inpatient & outpatient care
• GP visits & diagnostic tests
• Emergency treatment
• Prescribed medications
• Maternity care
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions (after a waiting period)

Patients typically pay 20% co-insurance up to a capped annual amount.

Private Health Insurance Options

Enhanced plans usually include:

• Specialist consultations & hospital stays
• Dental, vision, and maternity benefits
• Preventive screenings and vaccinations
• Emergency evacuation services

Top providers in Dubai include Cigna Global, Bupa Global, Allianz Care, Aetna, and MetLife.

Getting Access as an Expat

To use public facilities, expats must apply for a DHA health card. This requires documents such as Emirates ID, residence visa, tenancy contract, and passport photos.

• Cost: AED 320 (£70) per adult / AED 120 (£26) per child (under 10)
• Renewal: Annually
• Benefit: Subsidised services at DHA facilities

Even with a health card, many expats prefer private insurance for greater flexibility and faster access.

Thiqa Health Plans

For expats seeking broader coverage, Thiqa plans (Basic, Classic, Gold) offer access to both public and private providers, with benefits like:

• Lower co-pays and wider provider networks
• Maternity, dental, and vision coverage
• Direct billing with hospitals (no claim forms)
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions after one year

Monthly premiums range from AED 500 (£110) for Basic to AED 1,000+ (£220+) for Gold.

How Dubai Compares Globally

Dubai consistently ranks high among international healthcare systems. Some key indicators include:

• Infant mortality: 5 per 1,000 live births (UNICEF)
• Life expectancy: 83 years (World Bank)
• High immunisation rates: 99% (WHO)
• Universal basic insurance coverage for residents

With world-class infrastructure like Dubai Healthcare City, ongoing investment, and innovation, Dubai is positioning itself as a global healthcare leader.

Finding a GP or Specialist

New expats should prioritise registering with a GP. Helpful resources include:

• Dubai Healthcare City Directory (search by specialty, language, or insurance accepted)
• Insurance provider directories for in-network doctors
• Hospital websites like Mediclinic and Aster
• DHA official website for licensed practitioners

Scheduling an initial consultation can help determine if a doctor is the right fit for your needs.

Hospitals, Pharmacies & Emergencies

• Hospitals: Al Zahra, Mediclinic City Hospital, and more offer world-class care.
• Clinics: Walk-in centres like MedCare handle minor issues quickly.
• Emergencies: Dial 998 for ambulance services.
• Pharmacies: Widely available, though certain medications require special permits.

Maternity & Pregnancy Costs

Childbirth in Dubai can be costly without insurance:

• Natural delivery: AED 11,000–22,000 (£2,500–£5,000)
• C-section: AED 25,000–55,000 (£5,000–£12,000)

Insurance with maternity benefits is strongly recommended to reduce these expenses.

Luxury Healthcare in Dubai

For those seeking premium services, Dubai offers:

• Executive health screenings (~AED 14,000 / £3,000)
• Deluxe hospital suites (~AED 24,000 / £5,000 per night)
• Five-star wellness resorts blending medicine with spa-style care

Costs & Payments

• GP consultations: AED 150–300 (£35–£70)
• Specialist consultations: AED 300–500 (£70–£115)
• Inpatient care: Often billed directly to insurers

Expats must be proactive with insurance claims, but quality care is widely accessible with proper coverage.

Final Thoughts: Moving to Dubai

Dubai’s appeal goes far beyond career opportunities and lifestyle perks—it also offers a healthcare system that’s modern, efficient, and increasingly recognised on the global stage.

For expats, the key is understanding the balance between public services and private insurance so you can secure the right coverage for yourself and your family. With the right plan in place, you’ll have peace of mind while enjoying all the benefits of life in Dubai.