Healthcare & Health Insurance in the UAE

"Advanced recon on the ground is very important. Do not expect to find the perfect doctor straight away. The American hospitals are the most expensive but usually have the best standards of care. Find a doctor whom you like and stick with that person. If your company does not provide medical insurance, there are plenty of options to receive based on budget," explained one person living in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

"The UAE has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. The country has a number of public and private hospitals and clinics, offering a range of treatments and services. The public healthcare system is free for UAE citizens, while expats and visitors can access private healthcare services at a cost. The UAE also has a number of specialist medical centers, offering treatments such as fertility, oncology, and cardiology. The country is also home to a number of international hospitals, providing world-class medical care," remarked one member in UAE.

"I am a mental health patient and I got a relapse episode here. The medication provided to me has massively improved my life," explained one expat living in Dubai, UAE.

"Like most places, you pay for what you get. My company had our family on a health plan but it continually changed with the company trying to save money every year," wrote one digital nomad living in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

"Our health insurance was provided by the company I worked for. We had to pay about $10 (30AED) for a doctors visit. The process was very smooth and seamless," said one foreigner in Dubai.

"Hospitals are everywhere, clinics as well. Less than 30 minutes to any hospital unless you are out in the desert. MedClinic is a big hospital provider in the region. Quality varies on your insurance coverage. Both public and private options. The region is very class oriented and as a result, the costs associated with care filters out the people who cannot afford it," explained one expat living in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

"Emergency services in the UAE are highly efficient and reliable. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the toll-free number 998. This number is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is answered by a trained operator who will dispatch an ambulance to the scene. The operator will also provide medical advice and assistance until the ambulance arrives," said one digital nomad in UAE.

"The cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi are home to some of the best medical specialists in the UAE. In Dubai, the Dubai Healthcare City is a hub for medical professionals, offering a wide range of specialist services. In Abu Dhabi, the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is renowned for its world-class medical care and specialist services. Additionally, the Sheikh Khalifa Medical City in Abu Dhabi is a leading medical facility, offering a comprehensive range of specialist services. Other cities in the UAE, such as Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah, also have a wide selection of medical specialists," explained one digital nomad living in UAE.

"I never needed to do this, but I would have gone to City Hospital, A mediclinic hospital. They had a range of facilities available, held very high standards and that's where our daughter was born. The facility and the staff were outstanding," said one member in Dubai.

"There are no prescribed narcotics: codine and similar drugs are not legally available and traveling in with them can get you in big trouble. The UAE website has a detailed list of what is legal. There are pharmacies all over with an assortment of medicines. Some things like birth control and Voltorin are available over the counter but other things like cough syrup may require prescription. You may often skip the doctor and go to a trusted pharmacy and they will advise on what to take to get better," said one foreigner in Abu Dhabi.

"There are pharmacies in every mall and on most streets in the city. Antibiotics can be purchased over the counter. Some medications need a prescription and we found we received a lot of generic brand medications, but never went without anything really. Health insurance covered a lot of the expense, but they weren't terribly expensive to buy either," remarked one member in Dubai.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in the UAE. Most medications can be purchased at pharmacies, with a valid prescription from a licensed doctor. Some medications may require additional approval from the Ministry of Health and Prevention before they can be purchased. In addition, some medications may not be available in the UAE, and may need to be imported from other countries," explained one expat living in UAE.

"The medical facilities and medical care in the UAE are of a high standard. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of modern medical facilities and highly trained medical professionals. The UAE also has a number of world-class hospitals and clinics, offering a range of treatments and services. The government is committed to providing quality healthcare to its citizens, and has invested heavily in the healthcare sector," explained one person living in UAE.

"Yes, as a foreigner living in the UAE, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in the UAE is comprehensive and provides a wide range of services, including primary care, specialist care, and emergency services. The public healthcare system is also well-funded and provides high-quality care. Additionally, the UAE government has implemented a number of initiatives to ensure that all citizens and residents have access to quality healthcare," said one foreigner in UAE.

"Constant swabs freely available throughout the city. Tracing system a bit too elaborate :-)," said one member in Abu Dhabi.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in the UAE. The government has taken a proactive approach to the pandemic, introducing a range of measures to protect the health and safety of citizens and residents. These measures have included the introduction of a comprehensive testing and contact tracing system, as well as the provision of free healthcare services for those affected by the virus. The UAE has also implemented a range of digital health initiatives, such as telemedicine and remote monitoring, to ensure that people can access healthcare services safely and conveniently. In addition, the government has provided financial support to healthcare providers to ensure that they can continue to provide quality care to those in need," explained one expat in UAE.