Health Insurance in Dubai: How to Get It, Requirements and Benefits

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), ensuring access to healthcare services is essential for residents and expatriates. One of the key ways to ensure that you can receive medical care when needed is to have health coverage, generally provided by your sponsor.

Health insurance: What is a health card?

A health card in the UAE is an official document that provides access to public healthcare services offered by the Ministry of Health, Emirates Health Services (EHS) and various other government health authorities. It allows holders to access essential medical services, including hospital visits, emergency care and regular checkups at subsidized rates. Although many residents rely on private health insurance, having a health card can be a valuable asset. It provides an additional safety net for those who may not have comprehensive health coverage or who wish to use public healthcare facilities for certain treatments. This card not only ensures that you receive the necessary medical attention, but also helps manage healthcare costs effectively through appropriate health insurance.

Eligibility criteria for a health card in Dubai

The eligibility criteria for obtaining a health card in the UAE are relatively simple, but may vary depending on the types of health insurance purchased. Here are the main requirements:

1. Residency and EmiratesID: Applicants must have a valid Emirati identity card to obtain local insurance. This is crucial because it verifies your residency status in the UAE.
2. Age: There is no minimum age limit; infants and children can also obtain health permits, making it easier to manage families' healthcare needs.
3. Passport: a passport valid for more than 6 months
4. Medical report issued less than 3 months ago by a public facility.

Steps to apply for a health card in the UAE

The health card application process is simple and efficient, especially for expatriates in Dubai. Here are the steps to guide you through the application process:

1. Apply online

• Visit the Ministry of Health's official website: Start by visiting the EHS website or the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) portal for information about international health insurance. These platforms offer an easy-to-navigate interface for the application process.
• Create an account: If this is your first application, you may need to create an account by providing basic personal information.
• Complete the application form to purchase supplementary insurance. Complete the online application form, ensuring that all details are accurate and up to date.

2. Submit the required documents

• You will need to upload or submit several documents, including:
  • A copy of your EmiratesID
  • A valid copy of your passport
  • A recent passport-sized photo
  • Proof of residence (this may be a utility bill or an EJARI)

3. Pay the application fees

The application fees for a health permit in the UAE vary depending on your residency status and whether you purchase local insurance.

• For people with disabilities (PoD), the application fee for a health card is AED 50,
• while UAE citizens also pay AED 50.
• Expatriates must pay AED 100 for issuing the health card, plus an additional AED 15 for the EHS application form.

Payment can generally be made online.

4. Wait for processing and receive your card

After submitting your application, a processing period of a few days may apply within the healthcare system of the United Arab Emirates. You can check the status of your application online through the portal where you applied. Once approved, you will receive your health card by mail or through the designated EHS or DHA office. You will be notified by SMS or email about collection or delivery of your permit. Keep in mind that the health card is valid only at healthcare facilities managed by EHS. These include the Dubai Public Health Center, Alriffa Health Center in Sharjah, Masafi Hospital in Fujairah, Falaj al Muallah Physiotherapy Center in Umm Al Quwain, the Physiotherapy and Sports Medicine Center in Ras Al Khaimah, the Residency Medical Examination Center in Al Nuaimiya in Ajman, the Genetic and Neonatal Screening Diagnostic Center in Abu Dhabi, among others.

Benefits of having a health card in the United Arab Emirates

Having a health card in the UAE offers several benefits that improve your healthcare experience:

1. Access to public healthcare services:
   • The card provides access to a wide range of healthcare services in public hospitals and clinics at subsidized rates, making healthcare coverage easier for everyone, including expatriates in Dubai. This can result in considerable savings, especially for those without extensive private health insurance.
2. Coverage for family members:
   • Families can apply for health cards for their children and dependents, ensuring that everyone has access to the necessary healthcare services without incurring excessive costs through adequate health coverage.
3. Emergency services available in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
   • The health card entitles holders to emergency medical services at public healthcare facilities, which is crucial in urgent care situations.
4. Regular checkups and preventive care:
   • Cardholders can benefit from regular health checkups and preventive services, contributing to their overall health and well-being.
5. Ease of use:
   • With the health card, access to healthcare services becomes simpler, as it eliminates the need for additional insurance documentation or approvals to access public services

Key points to remember

Although the UAE health permit offers many benefits, it is important to keep a few points in mind:

• Validity and renewal: The health card has a specific validity period, 5 years for UAE citizens and 1 year for expatriates. Be sure to track your permit's expiration date to avoid any gaps in your coverage.
• Limitations: Although the health card covers many services, certain specialized treatments or services at private facilities may not be included. Always check with the relevant healthcare provider for specific details.
• Supplementary insurance: Depending on your healthcare needs, you may still consider obtaining supplementary private health insurance for additional coverage, especially for specialized medical care.

for all questions about local insurance: support@merritt.group .