The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) and is available to all UAE citizens and residents. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in the UAE, however, most expats primarily use private hospitals. Public hospitals are generally recommended for minor medical issues, while private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.
The UAE’s Public Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in the UAE is managed by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP). It is available to all UAE citizens and residents, and foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in the UAE. Public healthcare is free for UAE citizens and residents, while foreigners are required to pay a nominal fee for medical services. Public hospitals in the UAE are generally well-equipped and provide quality care, however, they are often overcrowded and wait times can be long.
The UAE’s Private Healthcare System
The private healthcare system in the UAE is made up of a network of private hospitals and clinics that provide quality medical care. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, however, it is often more convenient and wait times are usually shorter. Private hospitals in the UAE are well-equipped and provide quality care, and they are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.
The UAE’s Top Hospitals
The UAE has a number of top-rated hospitals, both public and private. Some of the most well-known hospitals in the UAE include:
- Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (Public, Abu Dhabi)
- Dubai Hospital (Public, Dubai)
- Medeor 24×7 Hospital (Private, Dubai)
- Al Zahra Hospital (Private, Sharjah)
- Aster Hospital (Private, Dubai)
- American Hospital (Private, Dubai)
Health Insurance Companies in the UAE
The most popular private health insurers in the UAE are Daman, Oman Insurance, and AXA. These companies provide health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in UAE: How to Navigate the Health System
“I’ve been living in the UAE for a few years now, and I can tell you that it’s possible to live on $3,000 a month, but you’ll have to make some sacrifices. For example, you’ll have to forget about living in luxurious areas like Downtown Dubai or the Palm Jumeirah, as rents there are sky-high. Instead, you can consider more affordable areas like Al Nahda, Deira, or International City. These neighborhoods offer more budget-friendly housing options, but they might not have the same level of amenities as the more expensive areas. You’ll also have to be mindful of your spending on dining out, entertainment, and shopping, as these can add up quickly. Another thing to consider is transportation. Owning a car can be expensive, so you might want to rely on public transportation like the metro, buses, or taxis. This will help you save on fuel and maintenance costs. In terms of groceries and daily expenses, shopping at local markets and discount supermarkets can help you save money. Also, cooking at home instead of eating out will significantly reduce your monthly expenses. Overall, living on $3,000 a month in the UAE is doable, but you’ll have to be disciplined with your spending and be willing to make some sacrifices in terms of your lifestyle and living arrangements,” said one expat living 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,” commented one expat living in Dubai, the 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,” mentioned one expat living in the UAE.
