Basic Health Insurance

In this page, we will dive into the basic health insurance for UAE nationals and expatriates. 

Basic Health Insurance across Different Emirates

Different emirates have different health insurance requirements. In this section, we will learn all about how basic health insurance works across different emirates in the UAE -

Abu Dhabi 

The Government of Abu Dhabi offers complete medical coverage to all UAE nationals residing in the emirate through the 'Thiqa' program. UAE citizens receive a Thiqa card, which grants them extensive access to numerous healthcare providers within the network of Daman (both private and public). This program also encompasses a wider geographic reach and additional health benefits.

To qualify for the Thiqa program, UAE nationals residing in Abu Dhabi between the ages of 18 and 75 are required to undergo the Weqaya screening conducted by the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi. This health assessment aims to identify cardiovascular risk factors and may only be exempted in exceptional circumstances.

Dubai 

Saada is a healthcare insurance initiative designed specifically for residents of Dubai. It aims to offer insurance coverage to individuals who don’t currently have access to any government health program within the emirate. 

By utilising an extensive network of private sector healthcare providers and DHA healthcare centres, the program ensures comprehensive treatment options. The Saada program details are conveniently stored on citizens' Emirates ID cards, indicating their subscription status.

Sharjah 

The health insurance coverage for UAE nationals in the emirate of Sharjah is managed by the Department of Health Insurance at Sharjah Health Authority. 

Originally, health coverage in Sharjah was limited to Sharjah Government staff, their dependents, and elderly citizens (individuals aged 60 or above). However, starting from January 2020, the Sharjah Government made the decision to expand the insurance coverage to include all citizens of Sharjah.

Ajman 

The Government of Ajman offers health insurance to all its employees. 

Health Insurance for Expatriates and Residents

The level of coverage offered to employers and their dependents depends on factors such as the employee's salary and designation. The extent of coverage and the type of policy or scheme chosen will determine the expenses associated with medical services.

In Abu Dhabi, it is the responsibility of employers and sponsors to ensure health insurance coverage for their employees and their families (including one spouse and up to three children under the age of 18). 

In Dubai, employers must provide health insurance coverage for their employees, while sponsors are required to obtain insurance coverage for their dependent residents.

The UAE has numerous insurance companies, some of which offer Islamic insurance (takaful) as well.

Types of Basic Health Insurance Plans in the UAE

Discussed below are the types of basic health insurance plans in the UAE -

• Individual Health Insurance - Individual basic medical insurance plans, as suggested by their name, are provided by insurance companies in the UAE to a single policyholder. These plans provide financial protection against specific illnesses and offer various advantages such as cashless hospitalisation as well as pre and post-hospitalization coverage. 
• Family Health Insurance - Family basic health insurance plans typically limit the number of policyholders to yourself, your spouse, and your children (as specified in advance). With this plan, the total coverage amount is divided among all the family members included in the policy. 
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance - Senior Citizen Insurance Plans cater specifically to individuals aged 60 and above. Obtaining such plans can be relatively more challenging than other types since only a limited number of health insurance companies in the UAE provide them. Additionally, these insurance providers typically require a medical check-up prior to granting the plan and impose higher premium rates compared to health insurance plans for younger individuals. 
• Group or Employee Health Insurance - Employers in the country typically offer Group Insurance Plans, which are primarily designed to incorporate and remove employees as they join or leave the company. Group health insurance plans often have affordable premiums due to the relatively lower risks associated with them.

Essential Benefit Plan

Essential Benefits Plans or EBP is a minimal or basic health insurance plan that is often purchased by employers for employees earning less than AED 4,000 per month. This is generally the most basic health insurance plan offered by several insurance companies in the UAE. 

In the next section, we will learn more about the inclusions of a basic medical insurance plan.

Coverage Offered by Basic Health Insurance in the UAE

The EBP or basic health insurance coverage encompasses a range of medical services such as emergencies, surgeries, medical diagnosis, medication, both outpatient and inpatient treatments, and maternity care. 

With that said, there are certain limitations and conditions in place along with co-insurance requirements where the insured person is responsible for a portion of the cost. These restrictions and co-insurance stipulations include the following - 

• Annual medical coverage of AED 150,000
• Emergency medical treatment within the UAE.
• Basic healthcare services are covered only within Dubai.
• Treatment for chronic and pre-existing conditions is not included during the first 6 months but is covered afterwards.
• For basic inpatient healthcare services, the insured person is responsible for a 20% co-insurance payment with a maximum limit of AED 500 per visit and an annual aggregate limit of AED 1,000. The insurer will cover any costs exceeding these caps.
• The cost of drugs and medicines is covered up to an annual limit of AED 1,500, although the insured individual is required to pay a 30% co-insurance for each prescription.

Companies Offering the Basic Health Insurance Plans in the UAE

The following are the insurance providers that offer the basic health insurance plans (EBP) in the country -

• GIG Gulf (formerly AXA Insurance)
• National Health Insurance Company (Daman)
• Sukoon Insurance
• Orient Insurance PJSC
• Takaful Emarat
• Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC)
• Watania Takaful
• Union Insurance
• Ras Al Khaimah Insurance Company

How to Apply for Basic Health Insurance in the UAE?

Policybazaar.ae is the largest insurance and financial marketplace in the UAE, offering top health insurance plans from major industry players in the country. Applying for a basic health insurance plan through this website is a fairly straightforward process. Their online platform is user-friendly and convenient, allowing you to apply from the comfort of your home or workplace. 

To apply for basic medical insurance in the UAE, continue on the Policybazaar.ae website and click on the 'Health Insurance' tab on our website’s homepage or select the appropriate option from the 'Insurance' tab in the menu bar. 

This will take you to the lead form which you need to fill out accurately. After completing the form, click on the 'View Quotes' tab to access the page with basic health insurance quotes.

On this page, you can conveniently compare all the basic health insurance plans without the need to switch between different tabs. You can review the features and premiums of each plan on the same screen. Once you have made a decision, click on the 'Apply Now' tab and follow the provided instructions to complete the application process.

If you find yourself uncertain about which plan to choose, you always have the option to connect with Policybazaar.ae's insurance expert team for assistance!

 

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