Healthcare & Health Insurance in the UAE
Summary:
What are healthcare services like in the UAE?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in the UAE, they replied:
"The UAE offers a wide range of healthcare services, ranging from private hospitals and clinics to public health centers. The public healthcare system in the UAE is generally of a high quality, with a focus on preventive care and health promotion. Foreign residents in the UAE have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in the UAE can use the public healthcare system by registering with a local health center and obtaining a health card. This card allows them to access the public healthcare system and receive subsidized services," said a member in UAE.
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What is the quality of medical care in the UAE like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in the UAE, they replied:
"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," said a 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 person living in Dubai, UAE.

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Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in the 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 a member in Dubai.
"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," explained one person living in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
What are emergency services like in the UAE?
When we asked about emergency services, members in the UAE wrote:
"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 foreigner in UAE.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"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," commented a person living in UAE.
Are common prescription medications available in the UAE?
"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," explained one digital nomad living in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in the UAE?
"Hospitals are varied, there are really good private hospitals with a high standard of care. Doctors, nurses and staff are international, as are the hospitals available. There are some award winning hospitals like the Cleveland Clinic. Government hospitals are available and provide free vaccinations to residence," explained one expat living in Dubai, UAE.
As a foreigner living in the UAE, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"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 digital nomad in UAE.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in the UAE if they have access to public healthcare in the UAE. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"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," said one digital nomad in UAE.
"Constant swabs freely available throughout the city. Tracing system a bit too elaborate :-)," commented a person living in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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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