Healthcare in the UAE offers a wide range of public and private providers. For newcomers, the challenge is usually knowing how the pieces fit together.

Start with your insurance

Health insurance is a requirement for residents in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and it’s often provided through an employer. Your policy shapes much of your healthcare experience, so it’s worth understanding early.

  • Which providers are in your network?
  • Do you need a referral or pre-approval for specialists, tests or procedures?
  • What co-payments or limits apply?

Your insurer or HR team is the right place to confirm the details of your cover.

Choosing providers

Consider location, network coverage, language, and any specific needs in your family, such as paediatrics, pregnancy care or an ongoing condition. It helps to register with a general practitioner or family medicine clinic before you need one.

Bring your records

If you or a family member has an ongoing condition, bring copies of recent reports, a medication list and any specialist letters from your home country. This helps new providers continue your care smoothly.

First steps checklist

In your first months

  • Understand your insurance network and approval process
  • Choose a family doctor or clinic near home
  • Organise medical records for each family member
  • Save emergency number 998 and your nearest emergency department
  • Identify specialists for any ongoing conditions

If you’d like help getting set up, our new-to-UAE navigation can guide you through the system.

This article offers general, non-clinical information only. It is not medical, legal or insurance advice. Always speak to your doctor or healthcare provider about clinical questions. In a medical emergency, call 998.