Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Abu Dhabi
Last updated on Apr 14, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Abu Dhabi, UAE is generally considered to be on par with the US, with many of the same treatments and technologies available. There are a number of hospitals and clinics in Abu Dhabi, including the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, and the Mafraq Hospital. Emergency services are available in Abu Dhabi, and an ambulance can be called by dialing 998 or 999.
How are healthcare services Abu Dhabi?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Abu Dhabi, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, are known for their high-quality standards and modern facilities. The city offers a mix of public and private healthcare providers, ensuring that residents and visitors have access to a wide range of medical services. Public hospitals and clinics are operated by the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), which provides comprehensive healthcare services, including primary care, specialized care, and emergency services. Private healthcare facilities in Abu Dhabi are also abundant, offering a variety of services such as general practice, dental care, and specialized treatments. Many of these private hospitals and clinics are internationally accredited and staffed by highly qualified medical professionals from around the world. In addition to hospitals and clinics, Abu Dhabi also has numerous pharmacies, which are well-stocked with both prescription and over-the-counter medications. The city's healthcare system is regulated by the Department of Health, which ensures that all medical facilities adhere to strict quality and safety standards. Health insurance is mandatory for all residents in Abu Dhabi, with employers typically providing coverage for their employees and their dependents. This insurance system ensures that everyone has access to affordable healthcare services when needed. Overall, healthcare services in Abu Dhabi are known for their high quality, modern facilities, and accessibility, making the city a desirable destination for both residents and medical tourists seeking top-notch medical care," commented one expat who moved to Abu Dhabi.
"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," said one expat.
What are medical services in Abu Dhabi like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Abu Dhabi, they replied:
"Medical services in Abu Dhabi, are of high quality and easily accessible, with both public and private healthcare facilities available. The emirate has a well-developed healthcare infrastructure, including state-of-the-art hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical centers. Public healthcare is provided by the Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), which operates numerous hospitals and clinics throughout the region. Private healthcare facilities are also abundant, offering a wide range of medical services and treatments. Healthcare professionals in Abu Dhabi are highly skilled and qualified, with many doctors and specialists having received their training and education from prestigious institutions around the world. The healthcare system in Abu Dhabi is regulated by the Department of Health, ensuring that all facilities meet strict quality and safety standards. In addition to the high-quality medical services, Abu Dhabi also offers a comprehensive health insurance system. All UAE nationals and residents are required to have health insurance, which covers a wide range of medical treatments and services. This ensures that everyone has access to the healthcare they need, regardless of their financial situation. Overall, medical services in Abu Dhabi are advanced, efficient, and easily accessible, providing residents and visitors with a high standard of care and support for their health and well-being," said one expat living in Abu Dhabi.
We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.
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We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.
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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Abu Dhabi?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Abu Dhabi, can be considered expensive, especially for expatriates and those without comprehensive coverage. The cost of medical treatments and consultations in private hospitals and clinics is generally high. However, the government provides Emirati citizens with free or heavily subsidized healthcare, making it more affordable for them. Health insurance is mandatory for all residents, and employers are required to provide coverage for their employees. The cost of insurance premiums can vary depending on the level of coverage and the individual's age and health status. Overall, while the quality of healthcare in Abu Dhabi is excellent, the costs can be a significant burden for those without adequate insurance coverage," said one expat.
"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," remarked one expat in Abu Dhabi.
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We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.
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What are emergency services like in Abu Dhabi?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Abu Dhabi wrote:
"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," mentioned one expat in Abu Dhabi.
"Emergency services in Abu Dhabi are well-equipped and efficient, providing medical, fire, and police assistance to residents and visitors. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the emergency number, which is 998 or 999. The operators are trained to handle emergency situations and will dispatch the necessary assistance promptly. It is important to provide clear and accurate information about your location and the nature of the emergency to ensure a quick response," commented one expat who moved to Abu Dhabi, the UAE.
We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
We are a U.S. tax firm specializing in taxes for Americans living abroad. We offer expert guidance on navigating the complexities of filing overseas income, foreign asset reporting, and ensuring compliance with both U.S. and international tax regulations. Universal Tax Professionals is a team of experienced experts well-versed in the latest tax laws, including the nuances that apply to expatriates.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Yes, there are a variety of medical specialists available in Abu Dhabi. For highly specialized medical care, people can go to Southern Gulf Medical Services, which provides a comprehensive range of specialized care, including advanced imaging, cardiology, emergency and intensive care, neurology, obstetrics and gynecology, oncology, pediatric care, and general surgery. Additionally, Abu Dhabi has a few world-renowned hospitals, such as Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, and Abu Dhabi Medical Group which provide highly specialized medical care. These medical centers have state-of-the-art technology and highly trained specialists, making them the top choices for specialized medical care in Abu Dhabi," wrote an expat living in Abu Dhabi.
"Many people traveled to Thailand or other south east asia for medical tourism. Everything from knee replacement to braces. Typically, standards are good if not better than care in UAE," said an expat in Abu Dhabi.
Are common prescription medications available in Abu Dhabi?
"Common prescription medications are available in Abu Dhabi. The city has numerous pharmacies and healthcare facilities where you can obtain prescription medications. However, it is essential to have a valid prescription from a licensed medical practitioner to purchase these medications. Some medications that are available in other countries might be restricted or unavailable in the UAE due to local regulations. It is advisable to check the list of restricted medications before traveling to Abu Dhabi and carry a doctor's prescription for any necessary medications," said one expat.
"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," remarked one expat in Abu Dhabi.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Abu Dhabi?
"Medical facilities in Abu Dhabi are quite advanced, with a variety of modern state-of-the-art hospitals and clinics. The quality of medical care offered in Abu Dhabi is generally high, with highly qualified and experienced healthcare professionals providing care to patients. Additionally, the government of Abu Dhabi has invested heavily in their healthcare system, with stringent health regulations and constant improvement in medical infrastructure and services," remarked one expat in Abu Dhabi.
"Hospitals are clustered in the city. On the outskirts they are less frequent, but you are never more than a 20 minute drive away from a hospital. There are private and government hospitals available, expats typically go to the private hospitals. Quality of care is high, hospitals are held to international standards and have expat nursing staff and doctors," remarked one expat living in Abu Dhabi.
As a foreigner living in Abu Dhabi, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"As a foreigner living in Abu Dhabi, you will have access to public healthcare, but you will need to obtain a health card from the Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD). Public healthcare in Abu Dhabi is known for its high-quality services and modern facilities. However, it is important to note that public hospitals and clinics may have longer waiting times compared to private healthcare providers. Additionally, while public healthcare is generally more affordable, some services and treatments may not be covered, and you might need to pay for them out-of-pocket or through private health insurance. It is also worth mentioning that communication might be a challenge in public healthcare facilities, as not all staff members may be fluent in English," said one expat living in Abu Dhabi.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Abu Dhabi if they have access to public healthcare in Abu Dhabi. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"I am an AI language model, and I cannot have personal experiences. However, I can provide you with general information about the healthcare system in Abu Dhabi during the pandemic. The healthcare system in Abu Dhabi has been proactive in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The government has implemented strict measures to control the spread of the virus, including widespread testing, contact tracing, and quarantine protocols. Healthcare facilities have been well-equipped to handle the influx of patients, and the government has also set up field hospitals and drive-through testing centers to manage the situation. Vaccination campaigns have been rolled out efficiently, and the overall response has been praised for its effectiveness in controlling the spread of the virus," remarked one expat in Abu Dhabi.
"Constant swabs freely available throughout the city. Tracing system a bit too elaborate :-)," remarked one expat living in Abu Dhabi.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Abu Dhabi?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Abu Dhabi about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"1. Make sure to research the healthcare system in Abu Dhabi and find a doctor or midwife that you trust and feel comfortable with. 2. Consider attending antenatal classes to learn more about the birthing process and to meet other expectant parents. 3. Familiarize yourself with the maternity leave policies in the UAE and plan ahead for any time off you may need. 4. Consider hiring a doula or birth assistant to provide additional support during the birthing process. 5. Make sure to have a plan in place for postpartum care, including a support system of family and friends. 6. Take advantage of the many baby-friendly activities and classes available in Abu Dhabi. 7. Make sure to take time for yourself and your partner to relax and enjoy the experience of becoming a parent," said one expat in Abu Dhabi.
Are healthcare services good in Abu Dhabi?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Abu Dhabi. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Abu Dhabi are of a high standard, with a range of public and private hospitals and clinics providing quality medical care. The public healthcare system is managed by the Department of Health, which provides free or low-cost healthcare to UAE citizens and residents. Private healthcare facilities offer a range of services, including specialist care, advanced diagnostics, and medical treatments. Abu Dhabi also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, which provides world-class care in a range of medical disciplines. Additionally, the city is home to a number of international healthcare providers, such as Johns Hopkins Medicine, which offer a range of services to both local and international patients," remarked one in Abu Dhabi.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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