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Understanding healthcare and insurance in Dubai

Dubai, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, is attracting an increasing number of French expatriates. Moving to Dubai can be an interesting opportunity for French people looking for dynamism and a new life. Before moving to Dubai, it’s important to understand the local healthcare system. This will enable you to make an informed choice of health insurance to ensure you are properly covered in this new adventure.

The healthcare system in Dubai

Dubai’s healthcare system is renowned for its quality and modernity. It is regulated by two main entities:

• Dubai Health Authority (DHA ): responsible for overseeing Dubai’s healthcare sector.
• Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC ): a free zone dedicated to healthcare services, home to many renowned medical establishments.

In Dubai, you’ll find modern, high-performance medical facilities in both the public and private sectors. Equipment is state-of-the-art, and medical professionals are highly trained. However, quality comes at a price: a simple consultation with a general practitioner can cost between €50 and €100, and if you need to see a specialist, be prepared to pay between €100 and €240.

Compulsory health insurance

Taking out health insurance in Dubai is not an option: it’s compulsory for all residents. As an employee, your employer must provide you with basic medical cover, including hospitalization, emergencies, general medicine, maternity and prescribed tests and examinations. However, dental and optical care are rarely covered.

This obligation also extends to your family: your spouse and children must be covered. If your employer’s insurance doesn’t cover your loved ones, it’s up to you to find a suitable solution. You’ll need to take out a specific mutual insurance policy to cover their health. This is an important step in protecting your loved ones, so that you can leave your expatriation with peace of mind.

Choosing the right health insurance for your needs

Even though the local health insurance scheme compulsory in Dubai offers basic coverage, many expatriates prefer to take out international health insurance. These offer more comprehensive coverage. They often include dental and optical care, repatriation and cover for travel to other countries.

For French expatriates, the Caisse des Français de l’Étranger (CFE) can be an interesting solution! It will continue to reimburse your medical expenses when you return to France, and in part in your host country. However, the CFE only covers part of your healthcare costs. To be fully covered, we advise you to take out additional international health insurance.

You can also opt for “first euro” international health insurance, without going through the CFE. This type of insurance is often more flexible. It allows you to adapt to your situation and needs. It’s important to think carefully about your health cover, so that you can enjoy your expatriation with complete peace of mind.

Cost of health insurance for Dubai

The cost of health insurance in Dubai depends on many criteria, such as your age, the type of cover you need and whether you opt for local or international insurance. For example, “first euro” international health insurance for a 30-year-old adult usually starts at around €158 per month, while a CFE top-up is available from €101 per month.

Rates for approved local insurance are often less expensive. Their rates vary from AED 200 to 500 per month (around €50 to €125), depending on the extent of coverage, reimbursement ceilings and the number of people to be insured in your family. Taking the time to compare the options available is essential to finding a solution that suits your needs and budget. You can use the Santexpat.fr comparator to find the international health insurance for Dubai best suited to your needs.

Health insurance to live in Dubai

Moving to Dubai requires careful preparation, particularly when it comes to health coverage. It’s essential to understand the local healthcare system and to choose an insurance plan that meets your needs and those of your family. Comparing the various options, whether local or international, will help you to benefit from optimum protection and enjoy your expatriation to Dubai with complete peace of mind.