Finding the right medical insurance in the UAE depends on your visa Emirate, budget, hospital network, and add-ons like maternity or international cover.
Below, I have discussed the top health insurance companies and why they are the best. Also, you will get to know what factors you should consider while choosing the health insurance, cost, and types
Best Health Insurance Companies in UAE: Quick Comparison
Ranges are approximate starting points gathered from insurer and aggregator pages. Actual quotes vary by age, Emirate, salary band, medical history, and network. Always get a live quote.
| Insurer | Typical Individual Range | Family Plan Range | Notable Highlights | Best For |
| Sukoon (Oman Insurance → Sukoon) | 635–5,000+ (EBP from AED 635) | 5,000–18,000+ | DHA EBP + enhanced up to AED 5M; strong UAE network. | Affordable EBP, robust upgraded plans |
| Daman | 600–5,000+ (Abu Dhabi Basic/low-income bands from AED 600) | 6,000–20,000+ | Abu Dhabi Basic; comprehensive UAE plans. | Abu Dhabi residents, strong local access |
| Dubai National Insurance (DNI) | 1,200–4,000+ (DHA EBP & “Essential”) | 7,000–18,000+ | EBP + enhanced benefits via DHA. | Budget-friendly Dubai visas |
| Orient Insurance | 1,000–4,000+ (some plans start ~ AED 1,031–4,000) | 7,000–20,000+ | Multiple “IMed / NEMed / Family Care” options. | Investors & families wanting choice |
| GIG Gulf (ex-AXA Gulf) | 630–4,500+ (EBP Dubai from AED 630) | 7,000–20,000+ | Broad regional brand, digital claims. | Low-cost EBP + mid-tier |
| ADNIC | 950–4,200+ (Silver from AED 950) | 8,000–22,000+ | Clear tiering (Silver/Gold/Platinum) | Tiered benefits, larger networks |
| Cigna | 4,000–15,000+ (regional/international, high limits) | 12,000–35,000+ | International cover; limits up to AED 7.35M. | Expats needing global access |
| MetLife | Varies (individual medical on quote) | Varies | Medical + accident/critical illness add-ons. | Add-on health & budget protection |
| Salama (Takaful) | 1,500–6,000+ (limits AED 150k–1M) | 8,000–18,000+ | Shariah-compliant, strong UAE network. | Islamic (takaful) preference |
| Allianz | 7,000–25,000+ | 20,000–50,000+ | International plans; expat-friendly. | Frequent travelers, global hospitals |
15 Best Health Insurance in Dubai
Here we’ve shortlisted the 16 best health insurance companies in Dubai. Each provider also offers tailored coverage options for individuals, families, and expats.
1. Sukoon Insurance (formerly Oman Insurance)
Website: direct.sukoon.com
Estimated Price Range: From AED 635 (EBP) up to AED 5,000+ (Enhanced)
Overview:
Sukoon, previously known as Oman Insurance, is among the UAE’s oldest and most trusted health insurers.
Its Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) starts from AED 635 and meets the DHA’s mandatory medical insurance requirement. The HealthPlus series offers enhanced local and international coverage up to AED 5 million, making it ideal for both residents and expats.
Key Features:
- DHA-approved Essential plan starting from AED 635
- Enhanced HealthPlus coverage up to AED 5 million
- Strong hospital network across UAE and GCC
- Easy online purchase and renewal portal
Why It’s Best:
Sukoon balances affordability and flexibility, allowing individuals, families, and employers to scale coverage easily as their needs grow.
2. Daman – National Health Insurance Company
Website: www.damanhealth.ae
Estimated Price Range: From AED 600 (Basic) to AED 5,000+ (Comprehensive)
Overview:
Daman is the leading health insurer in Abu Dhabi and manages the government-mandated Basic Plan under the Department of Health (DoH). Known for reliability and wide hospital access, Daman also offers upgraded plans covering all Emirates.
Key Features:
- Abu Dhabi Basic plan starting from AED 600
- Comprehensive family and corporate plans
- 3,000+ hospitals and clinics nationwide
- 24/7 digital app for approvals and claims
Why It’s Best:
Daman’s Abu Dhabi Basic Plan ensures every resident is legally covered, while its Enhanced Silver and Gold tiers serve mid- to high-income families.
3. Dubai National Insurance (DNI)
Website: www.dni.ae
Estimated Price Range: From AED 1,200 (EBP) to AED 4,000+ (Enhanced)
Overview:
Dubai National Insurance (DNI) offers Essential Benefit Plans and flexible individual and family medical options that comply with DHA requirements. It’s known for value-driven pricing and efficient customer service.
Key Features:
- DHA-approved Essential plan and add-ons
- Direct billing across a wide Dubai network
- Family and employee coverage options
- Simple online claim support
Why It’s Best:
DNI is perfect for Dubai residents seeking affordable compliance with the DHA’s health insurance law.
4. Orient Insurance
Website: www.orientonlinehealth.com
Estimated Price Range: From AED 1,000 to AED 4,000+
Overview:
Part of the Al-Futtaim Group, Orient Insurance provides diverse plans such as IMed, NEMed, and Family Care, catering to individuals, families, and corporates. It’s one of the best health insurance companies in UAE.
Key Features:
- Extensive network across UAE hospitals
- Customizable tiers with maternity and dental options
- Cashless access and easy claim processing
- Strong after-sales support and policy upgrades
Why It’s Best:
Orient is ideal for families and investors looking for customized medical coverage at reasonable prices.
5. GIG Gulf (formerly AXA Insurance Gulf)
Website: www.giggulf.ae
Estimated Price Range: From AED 630 (EBP) to AED 4,500+ (Enhanced)
Overview:
Previously known as AXA Gulf, GIG Gulf continues its legacy as one of the UAE’s most reliable insurers. It offers a DHA-approved EBP plan starting from AED 630 and various comprehensive options for expats and families.
Key Features:
- DHA Essential Plan at AED 630
- Enhanced regional and global coverage
- Smooth digital claim process and app tracking
- Excellent reputation for customer service
Why It’s Best:
GIG Gulf combines AXA’s international expertise with modern digital tools, making it great for tech-savvy buyers.
6. Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC)
Website: www.adnic.ae
Estimated Price Range: From AED 950 (Silver) to AED 4,200+ (Platinum)
Overview:
ADNIC is one of the UAE’s largest insurers, offering tiered plans named Silver, Gold, and Platinum to match different budgets. It’s widely trusted by corporates and individual policyholders alike.
Key Features:
- Transparent tiered structure (Silver/Gold/Platinum)
- Wide UAE and GCC hospital network
- Options for maternity, dental, and vision coverage
- Efficient online claims and approvals
Why It’s Best:
ADNIC’s tiered model makes it easy to compare and choose based on your budget and hospital preferences.
7. Cigna Insurance
Website: www.policybazaar.ae/cigna
Estimated Price Range: From AED 4,000 to AED 15,000+
Overview:
Cigna is a global health insurance leader offering both regional and worldwide plans with high annual coverage limits (up to AED 7.35 million). Perfect for expats who travel or need international medical access.
Key Features:
- Healthguard plans (Silver, Gold, Platinum)
- Worldwide emergency and hospitalization coverage
- Wellness and telehealth programs
- Cashless claims across 200+ countries
Why It’s Best:
Cigna is the top choice for globally mobile professionals and families who value seamless worldwide care.
8. MetLife
Website: www.metlife.ae
Estimated Price Range: By quote (varies per age & cover)
Overview:
MetLife provides personal medical insurance alongside protection for critical illness, accidents, and life. It’s ideal for people seeking multi-benefit protection beyond basic medical coverage. It is among the best health insurance Companies in UAE.
Key Features:
- Medical + accident + critical illness combos
- Flexible add-ons and family options
- Preventive care and wellness rewards
- Trusted global brand with a 150-year legacy
Why It’s Best:
MetLife suits individuals seeking comprehensive protection rather than basic EBP coverage.
9. Salama – Islamic Arab Insurance (Takaful)
Website: www.salama.ae
Estimated Price Range: From AED 1,500 to AED 6,000+
Overview:
Salama is the UAE’s leading Shariah-compliant insurer offering medical plans with coverage from AED 150,000 to AED 1 million. It follows the Takaful model, ensuring transparency and shared risk.
Key Features:
- 4,000+ UAE healthcare providers
- Shariah-compliant Takaful health plans
- Maternity, dental, and optical options
- Fast reimbursements and mobile claim tools
Why It’s Best:
Perfect for those seeking ethical, Islamic-compliant health coverage with strong local access.
10. Allianz (via Cigna Global)
Website: www.cignaglobal.com
Estimated Price Range: From AED 7,000 to AED 25,000+
Overview:
Allianz Care offers international health plans under a partnership with Cigna Global, serving expatriates and multinational employees. It focuses on global hospitalization, medical evacuation, and high-limit care.
Key Features:
- International coverage across 190+ countries
- Optional dental, maternity, and vision modules
- 24/7 multilingual global assistance
- Direct billing in global hospital networks
Why It’s Best:
Ideal for expats or frequent travelers who need dependable international insurance.
11. Dubai Insurance Co. (p.s.c.)
Website: www.insurancemarket.ae
Estimated Price Range: From AED 1,000+ (varies by quote)
Overview:
Dubai Insurance is one of the oldest UAE insurers, providing both basic and enhanced health coverage through local aggregators.
Key Features:
- Individual & family medical options
- Competitive rates through brokers
- Simple quote process online
Why It’s Best:
A locally trusted option for residents preferring UAE-based insurers.
12. Watania Takaful
Website: www.wataniatakaful.ae
Estimated Price Range: By quote (custom Takaful cover)
Overview:
Watania provides Takaful (Islamic insurance) plans focusing on family and corporate segments.
Key Features:
- Shariah-compliant insurance model
- Partnerships with key UAE providers
- Flexible contributions and profit sharing
Why It’s Best:
Great for people seeking ethical, Takaful-based coverage with customizable options.
13. Takaful Emarat
Website: www.takaful.ae
Estimated Price Range: By quote (varies by plan)
Overview:
Takaful Emarat historically offered family and corporate medical coverage based on Islamic finance principles. It is also considered one of the best health Insurance Companies in UAE.
Key Features:
- Shariah-compliant health products
- Range of add-ons for dependents
- Personalized service through agents
Why It’s Best:
Ideal for those looking for faith-based protection in the UAE market.
14. Oriental Insurance (OIC Gulf)
Website: www.oicgulf.com
Estimated Price Range: By quote (AED 1,000+ typically)
Overview:
Oriental Insurance, operating under OIC Gulf, offers tailored health insurance for individuals, families, and corporates across the UAE.
Key Features:
- UAE branch of a reputed Indian insurer
- Customizable inpatient and outpatient coverage
- Personal customer support and claims help
Why It’s Best:
Perfect for residents seeking a custom, quote-based health policy from an established provider.
15. AXA Insurance Gulf (now GIG Gulf)
Website: www.giggulf.ae
Estimated Price Range: From AED 630 (EBP) upward
Overview:
Following its rebranding to GIG Gulf, AXA continues to offer world-class insurance services across the UAE.
Key Features:
- DHA Essential Plan starting AED 630
- Global medical coverage options
- Streamlined claims via digital portal
Why It’s Best:
Combines international experience with local expertise, ensuring value and reliability.
What is Health Insurance?
Health insurance helps you pay for inpatient/outpatient treatment, medicines, emergencies, maternity, diagnostics, and more, based on your policy benefits and network.
In Dubai/Abu Dhabi, it’s mandatory for visa issuance/renewal (DHA/DoH rules; federal mandate from Jan 1, 2025, extends this broadly)
Why Do You Need Health Insurance In The UAE?
- Legal requirement for visa processing in most Emirates.
- Cashless access to approved hospitals/clinics.
- Lower out-of-pocket costs via co-pays and negotiated rates.
- Maternity & chronic conditions are included per regulator minimums (waiting periods may apply.
Can I Get Medical Insurance Without an Emirates ID?
- Initial purchase: Many insurers/aggregators let you start a policy or quotation with a passport, visa page, and UAE mobile/email, then update your Emirates ID when issued.
- Activation/claims: Emirates ID is typically required at hospitals for e-claims and verification, so you’ll need to update your policy once your ID is printed. (Check your insurer’s onboarding steps when you apply.)
What are the 5 Types of Health Insurance in the UAE?
Health insurance in the UAE is divided into several main categories based on income level, visa type, and healthcare needs. Below is a breakdown of each type and who it’s best suited for.
1. Essential Benefits Plan (EBP)
The Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) is the most basic and affordable form of health insurance in the UAE. It’s mandatory under the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) for all low-income workers, domestic helpers, and dependents.
This plan covers basic inpatient and outpatient treatments within a specific hospital network and ensures that every resident meets minimum healthcare standards.
2. Enhanced UAE-Only Health Plans
Enhanced plans go beyond the basic EBP by offering broader hospital networks and additional benefits like maternity, dental, vision, and chronic disease management.
These plans are popular among families, freelancers, and employees who want higher-quality healthcare and more choice of doctors and hospitals within the UAE.
3. International or Worldwide Coverage Plans
For expats and frequent travelers, International Health Insurance offers global coverage for medical treatment both in and outside the UAE.
These premium plans include hospitalization abroad, medical evacuation, maternity, and optional dental and optical coverage, ensuring complete peace of mind for those living or traveling across multiple countries.
4. Takaful (Islamic-Compliant) Health Insurance
Takaful health insurance is based on Shariah principles, where participants contribute to a shared fund used to support members in need. It promotes ethical and interest-free financial management.
These plans provide similar benefits to regular insurance (basic to enhanced), but under Islamic guidelines.
5. Employer-Sponsored Group Health Plans
In the UAE, most full-time employees receive health insurance from their employer as part of their job benefits. These plans vary widely — from basic DHA-compliant coverage to enhanced corporate or family packages.
Large companies often partner with top insurers for group policies that include dependents, maternity, and wellness programs.
How to Choose the Right Medical Insurance Plan? Factors to Consider
- Emirate & Visa: Abu Dhabi vs Dubai rules differ (e.g., Daman Basic).
- Network: Confirm your preferred hospitals are in-network.
- Annual Limit & Sub-limits: Check inpatient cap (e.g., AED 150k, 500k, 1M+).
- Co-pays & Deductibles: Lower premiums often mean higher co-pays.
- Maternity: Waiting periods (~6 months) and delivery limits (e.g., ~AED 7k–25k+)
- Chronic/Pre-existing: Covered under UAE rules after waiting periods; confirm your disclosures.
- International Travel: Choose global cover if you travel frequently (Cigna/Allianz).
- Budget: EBP vs enhanced vs international; compare at least 3 live quotes.
Which Type of Health Insurance Is Best for You?
Choosing the right medical insurance in the UAE depends on who you are, your visa category, and how much coverage you really need.
Here’s a simple guide to help you decide:
| Who You Are | Recommended Type of Health Insurance | Best Companies / Plans | Why It’s Suitable |
| Single / Working Professional (under company visa) | Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) | Sukoon, GIG Gulf, DNI, Orient | Meets DHA minimum requirement, lowest cost (AED 600 – 1,500). Ideal if the employer provides basic cover or you need compliance only. |
| Freelancer / Self-Employed Resident | Enhanced UAE-only Plan | ADNIC Silver, Orient IMed, Daman Comprehensive | Covers outpatient, diagnostics, maternity add-ons, and larger hospital networks within the UAE. Balanced price (~AED 2,000 – 6,000). |
| Family / Married Couple with Kids | Family Comprehensive Plan | Sukoon HealthPlus, Daman Family, ADNIC Gold/Platinum | Higher annual limits, maternity + child immunization, family discounts. Best value for long-term residents. |
| Frequent Traveler / Expat Executive | International Coverage Plan | Cigna Global, Allianz Care, GIG Gulf Worldwide | Global hospitalization and evacuation covers outside the UAE. Best for business travelers or multinational employees. |
| Senior Citizen / Retired Resident | Senior or Silver Tier Plan (Enhanced) | ADNIC Silver, Orient Family Care, Sukoon HealthPlus | Focused on chronic diseases, pre-existing condition management, and high hospitalization limits. |
| Domestic Worker / Low-Income Employee | Basic DHA-Approved Plan (EBP) | GIG Gulf EBP, Daman Basic, Sukoon EBP | Legally required for domestic workers; affordable essential coverage (AED 600 – 1,000). |
| Faith-Conscious Customer | Takaful (Islamic-Compliant) Plan | Salama Takaful, Watania, Takaful Emarat | Ethical, interest-free model; shared-risk coverage with transparency. Ideal for Shariah-compliant protection. |
Example Use Cases
- A tech freelancer in Dubai → ADNIC Silver plan (Enhanced UAE) for outpatient + diagnostics.
- A family of four in Abu Dhabi → Daman Family plan (Comprehensive) for wide hospital access.
- An expat CEO traveling monthly → Cigna Global or Allianz Worldwide Care (International).
- A domestic helper in Dubai → GIG Gulf EBP (DHA Basic) for affordable, compliant cover.
FAQs: Best Health Insurance Companies in UAE
What is the cheapest health insurance in the UAE for Dubai visas?
DHA Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) from ~AED 600–1,600 depending on age and network (e.g., Sukoon from AED 635, GIG Gulf from AED 630).
What is the best health insurance in the UAE for families?
Families usually need enhanced UAE plans for bigger networks and maternity benefits. Compare Sukoon HealthPlus, ADNIC Gold/Platinum, Daman family plans, or Cigna if you want regional/international limits.
How much does medical insurance cost in Dubai for a family of 4?
Expect ~AED 10,000–30,000+ depending on ages, network, and maternity. Start with enhanced UAE plans; go global only if you truly need it..
Is maternity covered in health insurance in Dubai?
Yes, under UAE rules—but waiting periods apply and delivery limits vary (basic around ~AED 7,000, premium up to ~AED 25,000+ plus NICU). Upgrade before conception.
Can I buy insurance before my Emirates ID is printed?
You can usually start with a passport/visa, then update your Emirates ID for claims activation. Check your insurer’s KYC steps.
UAE medical insurance prices vs. Dubai prices—are they different?
Yes. Abu Dhabi has Daman Basic rules; Dubai uses DHA EBP. Enhanced/international pricing varies by Emirate and network
How Much Does Medical Insurance Cost in Dubai?
Wrapping Up
Choosing the best health insurance in the UAE is simple when you match your visa Emirate, hospital network, benefit limits, and budget. Start with EBP if you only need compliance; move to enhanced or international if you want broader access, maternity depth, or global care.
You may like to read Best Health Insurance Provider in Abu Dhabi.
