Your Step-by-Step Guide to Health Insurance in Abu Dhabi

Getting a health insurance policy in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, may seem daunting at first glance. However, we’ve crafted a concise yet comprehensive guide to walk you through the process and highlight crucial factors to consider. This blog is divided into three sections, each addressing different aspects of acquiring health insurance in Abu Dhabi:

1. Required Documents

When embarking on the journey to purchase a health insurance policy in Abu Dhabi, it’s essential to understand the documentation required. Depending on your circumstances, you’ll fall into one of the following categories:

Entering the UAE for the First Time:

• Evisa or Employment Evisa with the entry date stamp
• EID Application form
• Passport

Note: You have a time limit of 13 days from the entry stamp date to purchase health insurance to avoid incurring HAAD fines.

Existing Residents in the UAE with an AUH Visa:

• Visa Copy
• EID Copy
• Passport Copy
• Certificate of Continuity (COC) from your previous insurer issued within the last 30 days. The current insurer you are applying with will be able to receive it from your previous insurer through the Shafafiya portal

Note: You have a time limit of 30 days from the expiration of your last insurance policy to purchase a new one to avoid HAAD fines.

Existing Residents in the UAE with a Dubai or Northern Emirate Visa:

• Previous Visa cancellation paper of your Dubai/NE Visa
• Visa Status Change paper showing your transition from Dubai/NE to AUH
• New Evisa or Employment Evisa with the entry date stamp
• EID Application form
• Passport Copy

Returning Residents to the UAE:

• Previous Visa
• Previous Visa cancellation paper
• New Evisa or Employment Evisa with the entry date stamp
• EID Application form
• Passport Copy

Visa on Arrival Entrants:

• Evisa or Employment Evisa with the entry date stamp
• EID Application form
• Passport
• Entry stamp on the passport from immigration when arriving at the airport

2. HAAD Fines

The Health Authority of Abu Dhabi (HAAD) mandates health insurance coverage for all residents throughout the year. Failure to obtain insurance within the specified timelines results in fines. Fines will have to be paid after the insurance premium is paid so the insurer can release the policy documents. Fines can be paid through the TAMM portal.Here’s an overview:

• Principals (Employees and Family Sponsors): AED 300 for every month uninsured.
• Dependents (Children, Spouses, Parents): AED 100 for every month uninsured.

3. Golden Visa Holders

Golden Visa holders are not exempt from health insurance requirements. Purchasing a policy upon receiving the golden visa is crucial to avoid HAAD fines. The same fine structure applies.

Navigating health insurance in Abu Dhabi requires attention to detail and adherence to regulations set by the Health Authority of Abu Dhabi. By understanding the required documents and potential fines, you can ensure compliance and peace of mind regarding your healthcare coverage.

Conclusion

Health insurance in Abu Dhabi is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s an essential safeguard for residents and expatriates alike. With a wide range of providers offering tailored plans, understanding your options ensures that you and your family receive quality healthcare without unexpected financial strain. Whether you are choosing between basic coverage or comprehensive plans with added benefits, taking the time to compare policies can save money and provide peace of mind.

At Global FinMate, our mission is to simplify financial and healthcare decisions by giving you clear, reliable insights. Choosing the right health insurance in Abu Dhabi is the first step toward securing your well-being and financial stability.

FAQs

1. Is health insurance mandatory in Abu Dhabi?

Yes. Health insurance is mandatory for all residents and expatriates in Abu Dhabi, and employers are required to provide coverage for their employees.

2. How much does health insurance cost in Abu Dhabi?

The cost depends on the level of coverage, insurer, and whether the plan includes dependents. Basic plans can start from AED 600 per year, while comprehensive plans may cost several thousand dirhams.

3. Which companies provide health insurance in Abu Dhabi?

Popular providers include Daman, AXA, MetLife, Oman Insurance, and Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC).

4. Can I upgrade my health insurance plan?

Yes, most insurers allow you to upgrade from basic to more comprehensive plans by paying an additional premium.

5. Does health insurance in Abu Dhabi cover pre-existing conditions?

Basic plans may have restrictions, but comprehensive plans often cover pre-existing conditions after a waiting period. Always review your policy terms carefully.