Healthcare in the UAE: Everything You Need to Know in 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become known for its rapid development, world-class infrastructure, and quality of life—and healthcare is no exception. With state-of-the-art hospitals, international medical professionals, and mandatory health insurance, the UAE offers one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the region.

Whether you’re relocating as an expat, moving with your family, or planning to freelance or retire in the Emirates, understanding the UAE healthcare system is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore the structure of healthcare in the UAE, how health insurance works, public vs private care, and what to expect in terms of access, quality, and costs.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

Overview of Healthcare in the UAE

The UAE offers universal access to healthcare for its citizens and a regulated, high-standard system for residents and expatriates.

Key facts:

• Healthcare is regulated at both federal and emirate levels.

• Dubai is regulated by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).

• Abu Dhabi is overseen by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DOH).

• Other emirates follow the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP).

The UAE ranks highly in the World Health Organization’s healthcare indices, with excellent outcomes in maternal care, emergency response, and chronic disease management.

Public vs. Private Healthcare

Aspect	Public Healthcare	Private Healthcare
Access	UAE citizens (free), expats with insurance	Expats and citizens (with insurance or payment)
Language	Arabic (main), English widely spoken	English is widely used
Cost	Low (for citizens); insurance needed for expats	Varies, higher than public, covered by insurance
Facilities	High quality, sometimes longer wait times	State-of-the-art, faster access, more options
Example Institutions	Rashid Hospital, Sheikh Khalifa Hospital	Mediclinic, Aster, NMC, Emirates Hospital

Private healthcare is the preferred option for most expats due to shorter waiting times, more English-speaking staff, and international accreditation.

Health Insurance in the UAE

Is Health Insurance Mandatory?

Yes. All UAE residents must have valid health insurance. Failure to comply can result in visa delays, fines, or access denial to healthcare services.

By Emirate:

• Dubai: Employers must provide insurance to employees. Dependents must be insured by the individual.

• Abu Dhabi: Employers must cover employees and their immediate dependents (spouse and 3 children).

• Other emirates: While not strictly enforced, insurance is highly recommended and increasingly mandatory.

Coverage Includes:

• GP consultations

• Specialist referrals

• Hospital stays (inpatient & outpatient)

• Diagnostics and medications

• Emergency care

• Maternity care (with conditions)

Freelancers or remote workers must buy private insurance plans from local or international providers.

Healthcare Costs in the UAE (2025)

Healthcare is not free for expats, but quality is high and costs are reasonable with insurance.

Service	Cost with Insurance (AED)	Cost without Insurance (AED)
General Practitioner Visit	AED 30 – 100 (co-pay)	AED 250 – 400
Specialist Consultation	AED 100 – 200 (co-pay)	AED 350 – 700
Maternity Package (normal birth)	Covered with insurance	AED 8,000 – 15,000+
Basic Dental Cleaning	Partially covered	AED 300 – 600
Emergency Room Visit	AED 0 – 200 (co-pay)	AED 500 – 1,000+
Full Insurance (annually)	AED 1,500 – 5,000+	N/A

Note: Insurance plans vary. Premiums depend on age, health condition, and coverage level.

Top Hospitals and Clinics in the UAE

The UAE is home to some of the best healthcare facilities in the region, many of which are internationally accredited.

Dubai

• Mediclinic City Hospital

• American Hospital Dubai

• Saudi German Hospital

• Al Zahra Hospital

Abu Dhabi

• Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

• Sheikh Khalifa Medical City

• NMC Specialty Hospital

Other Emirates

• RAK Hospital (Ras Al Khaimah)

• Thumbay Hospital (Ajman)

• Zulekha Hospital (Sharjah)

These hospitals offer a wide range of specialties, including cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, pediatrics, and fertility treatments.

Maternity and Childcare

Maternity care in the UAE is regulated and of high quality. All insurance plans must include basic maternity coverage, though the level of cover can vary significantly.

Service	Covered with Insurance?
Prenatal check-ups	Yes (limited visits)
Ultrasounds & blood tests	Yes (within limit)
Delivery (normal/C-section)	Yes (limit applies)
Neonatal care	Partially covered

Some expats opt for upgraded maternity packages at private hospitals for additional comfort, privacy, or optional procedures.

Pharmacies and Medications

Pharmacies are widely available, well-regulated, and usually open late—some 24/7. Many medications that require prescriptions abroad are available over-the-counter in the UAE, but regulated medications still need a doctor’s approval.

• Common meds (antibiotics, pain relief) are affordable.

• Controlled substances require special permission.

• Bring a prescription letter if carrying medication from overseas.

Check MOHAP guidelines for medications banned in the UAE (e.g., codeine-based drugs).

How to Access Healthcare as an Expat

1. Get your health insurance (mandatory for visa processing).

2. Receive your Emirates ID (used for medical file creation).

3. Choose a clinic or hospital based on your network or preference.

4. Book appointments online or via call—walk-ins also accepted.

5. Present your insurance card or Emirates ID at the facility.

Telemedicine & Digital Healthcare

Since the pandemic, the UAE has embraced digital health solutions, including:

• Teleconsultations via hospital apps

• Home sample collection for blood tests

• E-pharmacy delivery

• Wearable integration for chronic disease management

These tools offer greater convenience for residents and remote workers alike.

Final Thoughts

The UAE healthcare system combines modern infrastructure, global medical talent, and strong regulation to provide high-quality care to both citizens and residents. While costs can vary, mandatory insurance ensures most expats have access to excellent treatment at affordable rates.

Whether you’re coming for work, family, or freelance life, you’ll find the UAE offers a safe, clean, and efficient medical environment—with both comfort and peace of mind.