Health & Protection in the UAE

The inflation in health care cost that has hit the UAE has greatly affected the insurance industry. With medical cost increasing dramatically and medical cover becoming mandatory for all residents, employers have been fighting to keep benefits cost low. As an arriving expat, you will need to look at multiple aspects of your protection. Here are some of the most essential things that you need to know when it comes to getting and using insurance in UAE.

Getting Insurance

Before choosing a company, make sure that it is on the list of accredited insurance providers by the Dubai Financial Services Authority, a local government sector that can assist you in case your insurance provider is not adhering to the agreement on your policy.

Health care is the most basic type of insurance that most people have. As for expats, this benefit should be included in their relocation package to UAE and usually covers their dependents as well. You can also get various types of coverage from the local brokers in the country such as  Al-Ain Ahlia Insurance Company that offers a broad range of both life and non-life insurance products. There are also several international companies like AIG that provides global coverage for your health, life, travel, car and home. Make sure to talk to your HR or manager about it.

Importance of Insurance

One of the biggest benefits of having insurance is that it can protect your properties. Many expats invest their hard earned money to necessities such as home and car. Having insurance can give you the peace of mind that if ever your belongings are damaged, you can have it fixed or replaced without touching your savings.

"Health system in Dubai has definitely gone better than previous years, however, it still needs more improvement, though keep in mind UAE is relatively a new country, therefore, it is doing well so far."- Rawaa Al Abdulla, Expat in Dubai

Expats relocating to UAE should also consider the country’s climate as a possible health risk for them and their family. The hot desert winds and humid weather can cause serious respiratory problems especially to those who are still adjusting to the new environment. Typhoid fever and Hepatitis A are also some of the most common illnesses in the country so make sure that your vaccinations are up to date. By having health insurance, you can have the peace of mind that in the worst case scenario, you and your medical needs will be taken care of.

Local Insurance in UA

The insurance sector in UAE is considered to be the most vibrant and stable in the Middle East. Currently, the sector has more than 50 large companies that contribute a significant amount to the country’s economy. All of these insurance providers are under the supervision of the Dubai Financial Services Authority who ensures that all brokers in the country are operating legally.

The Ministry of Health in UA E has launched a Compulsory Health Insurance Scheme for all locals and foreign workers across the Emirates. It has been successfully implemented in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and is expected to take effect in Sharjah and the Northern Emirates. This law will ensure that all individuals in the country have access to primary and emergency health services. This mandatory scheme is also connected to the visas of expatriates where you will need health insurance before you can renew your work or residence permit.

Aside from the coverage from the government, expats can also get policies from the international companies in UAE. You can get global health care from multinational providers such as the ones selected by ExpatFinder. There is also a high chance that you will find the most suitable type of insurance from these international companies since their policies are designed to meet the needs and lifestyle an expat like you.