Dubai’s Healthcare System for Expats and Tourists
Dubai is often considered the world’s expat capital. Roughly 85 percent of residents are foreigners, and millions more arrive each year as tourists or international travelers. With this rapid growth, the city has developed an advanced, well-regarded healthcare system, supported by excellent hospitals, multilingual staff, and robust regulation.
Even so, Dubai faces challenges as demand continues to rise. Whether you are relocating or visiting, it is helpful to understand how the system works, what is covered, and which insurance options you may need.
The Healthcare Structure in Dubai
Dubai is one of the seven emirates within the United Arab Emirates. While federal regulations apply nationwide, each emirate has significant authority over its own healthcare system. In Dubai, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) oversees both public and private care.
The DHA administers Dubai’s four public hospitals: Dubai, Rashid, Latifa, and Hatta. These facilities provide inpatient and outpatient services and are recognized for high standards of care. Combined with a strong private sector, Dubai is recognized as having one of the best healthcare systems in the region.
How the Dubai Health System Is Funded
Healthcare in Dubai is primarily funded through taxation and public-sector contributions, with additional funding from patient co-payments.
Employees who receive insurance through their employer typically pay a 20% co-pay on medical services. This is capped at 1,000 dirhams per year. Employers are required to provide health insurance for expatriate employees. However, they are not required to cover dependents. Families moving to Dubai should budget for this additional cost.
Healthcare spending in Dubai continues to rise. The city spent 50.3 billion dirhams in 2018, and the figure is projected to reach 53 billion dirhams by 2020. Since Dubai does not collect personal income tax, long-term funding remains a significant topic of discussion.
Public vs Private Healthcare in Dubai
Although public hospitals are available to everyone, Emirati citizens tend to use public services, while most expats rely on private healthcare.
Public Healthcare
Public facilities offer high-quality care, but wait times may be longer and services more limited than in the private sector.
Private Healthcare
Private care is the preferred choice for expats due to shorter wait times, modern facilities, and access to a wide range of specialists. Dubai boasts over 130 private health centers, including numerous premium clinics that provide exceptional comfort and personalized attention.
As a result, most expats carry international private health insurance that provides broader coverage and flexibility.
Who is Eligible for Coverage in Dubai
Since 2014, all residents of Dubai have been required to have medical insurance. Employers are required to provide private health insurance for all expat employees.
To support lower-income workers and non-working residents, the DHA created the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP). It provides affordable basic coverage for:
- Lower-salary expats
- Children
- Domestic workers
- Non-working dependents
Employers may choose any plan for employees earning more than 4,000 dirhams per month, but the coverage must be equal to or better than the EBP.
A common criticism is that some employer-provided plans offer minimal benefits. Coverage for services such as dental and vision is often excluded, leading many expats to purchase supplemental or top-up insurance for enhanced protection.
Best Private International Health Insurance for Expats Living in Dubai
William Russell Health Insurance
- Worldwide coverage with access to private hospitals and trusted medical networks.
- Comprehensive benefits, covering inpatient care, outpatient treatment, mental health, and emergency evacuation.
- Flexible plan levels that let expats choose the coverage and budget that fit their lifestyle.
IMG Global Prima Medical Insurance
- Five flexible plan levels with optional add-ons
- Choose your coverage area based on where you live or travel
- Freedom to select your healthcare provider anywhere in the world
How to Apply for Public Healthcare in Dubai
Anyone working legally in Dubai is eligible for the public healthcare system. Employers must provide basic insurance. EBP coverage supports individuals on lower salaries.
To use government hospitals, such as Dubai Hospital or Latifa Hospital, you must obtain a health card. You can apply online or visit a medical center.
You will need:
- Emirates ID number
- Passport details
- Residence visa
- Two passport photos
- Copy of tenancy contract
- Completed application form
- Payment of 320 dirhams for adults
- Children under ten pay 120 dirhams
Maternity Care in Dubai
Dubai provides excellent maternity services, including many female-only clinics. Latifa Hospital is dedicated to serving women and children, featuring both a neonatal intensive care unit and a neonatal surgery center.
Public insurance does not cover all maternity-related costs. The average price of prenatal care and delivery is between 4,000 and 7,000 dirhams.
If you plan to give birth in Dubai, you must register with your hospital or clinic by your seventh month of pregnancy. The following documents are required:
- Valid health card
- Passport and residency visa for both parents
- Marriage certificate
- Husband’s passport and visa
It is mandatory to be legally married to give birth in Dubai. Homebirths are prohibited, and abortion is illegal except in cases of fatal fetal abnormalities or risks to the mother’s life.
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Joe Cronin, President of ICI, is a leading expert in international health, life, and travel insurance. An MBA and founder of multiple global businesses, he helps expatriates and travelers access trusted, comprehensive insurance solutions worldwide.
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