Top Medical Insurance Plans for Expats in Dubai: What You Need to Know (2025 Guide)

Yet, if you're an expat who'll be residing in Dubai, not only is it a smart idea to hold a valid medical insurance policy—it's the law. The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) mandates that all residents, expatriates included, hold a compliant health insurance policy.

As an expat, the UAE insurance sector is confusing. With DHA-compliant plans and international value-added benefits, selecting the right provider is essential. This 2025 guide analyzes everything that expats need to know—what to search for, who are the leading insurers, and why digital platforms like Shory are changing the sector.

Is Medical Insurance Compulsory for Expats in Dubai?

Yes. It is compulsory by law for all Dubai residents, expatriates included, to be health insured. Typically, employers sponsor their employees, but dependents, domestic workers, and freelancers must make their own arrangements.

The Dubai Health Authority enforces the mandate through visa regulations. No health insurance policy in force equals no residency visa issuance or renewal. The minimum requirement is emergency treatment, in-patient care, and some out-patient cover.

What to Look for in Expat Medical Insurance

In choosing a plan, expats need to consider regulatory compliance and personal health needs. Key features to compare include:

- In-patient and outpatient care

- Emergency and ambulance service

- Diagnostics, radiology, and lab tests

- Prescription drugs

- Maternity benefit (for families)

- Dental and optical cover (optional)

- Pre-existing and chronic condition cover

- Access to a large network of clinics and hospitals

Worldwide coverage or travel health benefits for frequent travelers

Your plan should also be DHA-approved and backed by a licensed insurer in the UAE.

Top Medical Insurance Providers for Expats in Dubai in 2025

To help expats make informed decisions, we’ve reviewed the top insurance providers based on coverage, affordability, customer satisfaction, digital access, and regulatory compliance. Here's a breakdown of the leading options.

Shory – Best Overall for Expats

Shory is the UAE's top online insurance comparison site. Instead of having to approach each insurer individually, expats can compare instant quotes, coverage, and rates from multiple licensed insurers—in one place.

Shory's mobile-friendly website is simple to navigate, where you can compare, purchase, and download policies instantly. They partner with top providers such as ADNIC, Salama, and Orient and offer transparent plans for individuals, families, and freelancers.

Shory also offers 24/7 customer service, instant policy issuance, and multilingual support, making it the most convenient way for expats to buy insurance in Dubai.

ADNIC – Best for Comprehensive Local Coverage

Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC) is one of the most experienced insurers in the UAE. Its SmartCare and Shifa plans are DHA-compliant and are suitable for expats who desire big hospital networks, flexible add-ons, and low premiums.

ADNIC has digital claims services through its mobile app and English and Arabic customer support. It's suitable for expats who desire a traditional provider with decent market experience and stable service delivery.

Salama – Perfect for Shariah-Compliant Medical Insurance

Salama, or Islamic Arab Insurance Company, is a trusted name for Takaful-based health policies. It is a great choice for expats who seek ethical, Shariah-compliant insurance policies.

Salama policies provide cover for hospitalization, specialist consultations, maternity cover, and pre-existing condition coverage after the standard waiting period. Its cooperative model appeals to Muslim expats and those who prioritize ethical financial products.

Salama's plans are also available through Shory, with easy comparison available for digitally inclined customers.

Orient Insurance – Top for Corporate and Family Plans

Orient Insurance, part of Al-Futtaim Group, is highly reputed for its corporate plans but also provides cover for individuals and families. Orient provides several DHA-approved plans with varying levels of cover, including their top-selling Care series.

Their plans are known for high annual coverage limits, fast claims processing, and direct billing options across Dubai’s top hospitals. Expats with larger families or those seeking top-tier in-patient services will find Orient to be a dependable choice.

Daman – Best for Budget-Conscious Expats

Daman, or the National Health Insurance Company, is a well-known government-backed insurer. Although best known in Abu Dhabi, Daman has several plans that are suitable for expats in Dubai.

Daman's Essential Benefits Plan is DHA-compliant and ideal for low-income expats or domestic workers. Their online app simplifies approvals, claims, and navigation around hospitals, which is convenient for first-time expats unfamiliar with the local healthcare system.

Daman is ideal for those looking for affordability and basic compliance with optional add-ons.

How to Choose the Right Plan Based on Your Needs

No two expats have the same health profile or budget. Here’s how to evaluate the right medical insurance dubai for your situation:

If you’re a single expat, basic DHA-compliant plans with outpatient benefits may suffice.

If you’re moving to Dubai with family or dependents, consider maternity, pediatric, and dental coverage.

If you're a constant traveler, look for policies that include international coverage and repatriation services.

If you're a freelancer or remote employee, platforms like Shory allow you to compare and buy self-funded plans directly.

Always check the waiting periods for pre-existing conditions, the scope of covered treatments, and whether your preferred clinics or hospitals are within the insurer's direct billing network.

Why Shory Is the Best Option for Expats

Shory is more than a comparison site. It's a one-stop insurance platform designed especially for the UAE expat community. With rising medical costs and regulatory pressure, expats need transparency, speed, and trust. Shory offers all three.

Unlike broker-based systems, Shory allows users to:

Compare policies from top-rated insurers in real time

Clearly see coverage terms before they buy

Purchase and download a policy without delays or paperwork

Get real-time customer support in multiple languages

Renew or update plans in minutes

Shory also ensures that all featured providers are DHA-licensed, so you can rest easy and be on the right side of the law.

Final Thoughts

Searching for medical insurance in Dubai that's right for you may appear overwhelming, especially for new expats. But it needn't be, with the proper information and tools. Regardless of whether you require budget coverage, family benefits, or Takaful-compliant plans, there are plenty of quality options in the UAE insurance market.

Start your journey with a platform that simplifies the process—Shory. As Dubai’s leading insurance comparison site, it empowers expats to make informed, fast, and reliable choices, all from the comfort of their phone or laptop.

Health is your most valuable asset. Choose coverage that protects it without compromise.