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Health insurance requirements vary across emirates, but all Dubai Golden Visa applicants must have comprehensive, UAE-approved health insurance to receive their visa. The UAE Golden Visa allows foreigners to live, work, and study in Dubai for up to 10 years without a sponsor.
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Are you hoping to move to Dubai under the UAE’s coveted Golden Visa? Are you looking for health insurance that meets visa requirements? Are you unsure what those requirements are and how to find and compare top plans? This Pacific Prime article will answer these questions and more.
We’ll walk you through the health insurance requirements for Dubai’s Golden Visa, outline both public and private health insurance options that meet requirements, compare the best international health insurance plans for Dubai expats, and much more.
Keep reading to get started, or head directly to our free quote tool to start narrowing down the plans for you. If you want more information on the healthcare system or the cost of living in Dubai, check out our useful guides tailored to expats moving to the UAE.
Health Insurance Requirements for Dubai Golden Visa Holders
Dubai Golden Visa holder hopefuls must secure health insurance from a UAE-approved provider not just for themselves but also for any sponsored family members. Travel insurance does not meet the requirements. Insurance must be comprehensive and valid for at least one year with the option for renewal.
Let’s outline each of the health insurance requirements for Dubai’s Golden Visa Holders in more depth below:
Insurance Coverage Amounts Required in Dubai
Health insurance that fulfills Dubai’s Golden Visa requirements must be comprehensive: neither short-term nor travel insurance will suffice. The insurance must cover the cost of all emergency, inpatient, outpatient, and maternity care, with an annual limit of at least AED 150,000 (USD $40,838.55).
Benefits should also include coverage for pre-existing and chronic conditions and mental health services.
The Dubai Health Authority (DHA), along with the Dubai Health Insurance Corporation, oversees the health requirements for residents, including expats. All plans must be approved by the DHA, with official licenses required to provide care in the UAE.
Duration Required in Dubai
Dubai Golden Visa applicants must secure health insurance that is valid for at least one year from their application date while also being renewable: continuous coverage for the duration of your visa is required.
Who Must Be Covered in Dubai
Unlike some other emirates, Dubai’s Golden Visa health insurance requirements extend beyond the main applicant. Dubai Golden Visa holders must provide insurance coverage for all individuals under their sponsorship. This could include:
- The main applicant
- A spouse
- Children, regardless of age
- Parents, if sponsored under the Golden Visa
- Any other dependents included in the sponsorship
Applicants should note that many Dubai employers must enroll their staff in approved health insurance, but those employers are not required to cover their employee’s dependents. Most employer-sponsored coverage will not suffice for Dubai Golden Visa holders with dependents.
Public Health Insurance Options for Dubai Golden Visa Holders
Dubai Golden Visa holders may choose to meet their health insurance requirements through the country’s Basic Health Insurance Scheme, through insurance provided by their employer, or through international health insurance. International health insurance is generally the most popular option.
Public Insurance for Dubai Golden Visa Holders
As of 2025, Dubai’s Basic Health Insurance Scheme offers new options for meeting Golden Visa compliance. This government plan offers affordable, comprehensive benefits for private-sector employees up to age 64. Those over this age can submit a medical disclosure form with recent medical reports.
The Basic Health Insurance Scheme (AED 320) benefits include:
- Affordable Coverage: The cost of coverage starts at AED 320 per year (USD $87.12). This does not include taxes and fees.
- Inpatient Benefits: Inpatient care includes an annual maximum of AED 50,000 (USD $13,612.85) with a 20% copayment, which is capped at AED 500 (USD $136.13) per visit and AED 1,000 (USD $272.26) annually.
- Outpatient Benefits: Outpatient care includes an annual maximum of AED 10,000 (USD $2,722.57) with a 25% copayment, which is capped at AED 100 (USD $27.23) per visit. No copayment is required for follow-up appointments within seven days for the same medical issue.
- Medication Coverage: Medication benefits include a 30% copayment with a cap at AED 1,500 (USD $408.39) annually.
- Chronic Condition Coverage: Chronic conditions are covered immediately, with no waiting period.
- Coverage Network: Patients can get coverage at seven hospitals, 46 clinics, and 45 pharmacies.
Employer-Provided Insurance for Dubai Golden Visa Holders
Golden Visa applicants who will be employed by the UAE may be able to satisfy their insurance requirements through their employer’s mandatory health insurance. This coverage most likely does not extend to all your dependents, so those with families should choose separate private insurance.
Top Three International Health Insurance Providers for Dubai Golden Visa Holders
International health insurance is the best choice for expats moving to Dubai on the Golden Visa. It offers flexible, portable coverage, so patients can receive care not just in Dubai and the UAE, but worldwide. These plans are tailored to meet the unique needs of expats.
Some of the best international health insurance providers for expats in Dubai include Allianz, April International, and Cigna Global.
Allianz International Health Insurance for Dubai Golden Visa Holders
Allianz Insurance partners with Orient Insurance PJSC to offer comprehensive health insurance plans that satisfy DHA requirements and that meet varied lifestyle and budget needs for Dubai expats. Choose from the Dubai Elite, Dubai Prime, and Dubai Select individual plans.
Some of the main benefits included in these plans are outlined below:
| Dubai Select | Dubai Prime | Dubai Elite | |
| Maximum Plan Limit | USD $1,750,000 | USD $4,000,000 | USD $10,500,000 |
| Private Room | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Inpatient Care | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Oncology | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Pre-existing Conditions | USD $43,000 | USD $43,000 | USD $43,000 |
| Rehabilitation Treatment | USD $2,800 | USD $3,550 | USD $6,250 |
| Preventative Surgery | Not covered | Not covered | USD $40,000 |
| Accidental Death Benefit | Not covered | Not covered | USD $14,000 |
| Laser Eye Treatment | Not covered | Not covered | USD $1,350 |
Allianz also offers outpatient benefits in Dubai through their Pearl, Silver, and Gold individual Dubai plans. Some of benefits included in these plans are outlined below:
| Dubai Pearl | Dubai Silver | Dubai Gold | |
| Maximum Plan Limit | USD $51,000 | USD $61,700 | No limit |
| General Practitioner and Specialist Fees | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Prescriptions | USD $1,400 | Covered | Covered |
| Diagnostic Tests | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Psychiatry and Psychotherapy | 15 visits; maximum cost of USD $2,725 | 30 visits | 30 visits |
April International Global Health Insurance for Dubai Golden Visa Holders
April International partners with Salama to provide DHA-compliant health insurance plans to expats in Dubai. They offer four health insurance plan options: Core, Essential, Extensive, and Elite.
Some of the benefits offered across April International’s Dubai plans are:
| Core | Essential | Extensive | Elite | |
| Hospital and Surgery Annual Limit | USD $200,000 | USD $1,000,000 | USD $2,500,000 | USD $5,000,000 |
| Outpatient Care | USD $1,400 | Fully covered | Fully covered | Fully covered |
| Maternity (Optional) | Not available | USD $4,000 per pregnancy | USD $6,000 per pregnancy | USD $8,000 per pregnancy |
| Evacuation and Repatriation | Included up to USD $1,000,000 | Included up to USD $1,000,000 | Included up to USD $1,000,000 | Included up to USD $1,000,000 |
Cigna Global International Health Insurance for Dubai Golden Visa Holders
Cigna Global’s Cigna Healthguard plans are designed to meet DHA requirements for expats living in Dubai. With three categories—Regional, International, and International Plus—each Healthguard plan offers different benefits, but they all cover inpatient, outpatient, and cancer care.
Let’s outline some of the benefits of each tier in the Cigna’s Healthguard plan:
- Healthguard Regional Plan: The Regional plan covers care only in Gulf Cooperation Council countries, some Middle Eastern countries, and Asia (excluding Singapore, Hong Kong, and China). It offers an annual benefit maximum of AED 2,750,000 (USD $748,808.71).
- Healthguard International Plan: The International plan offers global coverage, including optional coverage in the US. US coverage comes with an increased premium. The annual benefit maximum for this plan is AED 7,350,000 (USD $2,001,361.47).
- Healthguard International Plus Plan: The International Plus plan is Cigna’s most comprehensive plan for expats in Dubai, boasting an unlimited annual benefit maximum. This plan also offers worldwide coverage with the choice to include coverage in the US.
How to Get a Dubai Golden Visa
Investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, scientists and researchers, outstanding students, those with specialized talents, and executive directors may consider a move to Dubai with the Golden Visa. Below we’ll outline qualifications and how to apply. Let’s get started.
Qualifications for Dubai’s Golden Visa
All Golden Visa applicants must have a valid passport with validity for at least six months, a colored passport-style photo, health insurance that meets requirements, and proof of a UAE address, such as a rental contract or title deed. Other requirements depend on the type of applicant.
- Real Estate Investors: Must provide at least one title deed for property with a value of at least AED 2,000,000 (USD $544,588.20) as well as a no objection certificate (NOC) from a bank for any mortgaged properties.
- Investors in Public Funds: Must provide proof of investment in UAE-approved funds, with investments being no less than AED 5,000,000 (USD $1,361,470.50), as well as a letter from the Federal Tax Authority stating an annual tax contribution of at least AED 250,000 (USD $68,073.52).
- Entrepreneurs: Must provide an approval letter from the MoE or ADGM authorizing potential innovative projects as well as proof of at least AED 500,000 (USD $136147.05) in annual business revenue.
- Skilled Professionals: Must provide an employment contract approved by the MOHRE, an attested bachelor’s degree, and a salary certificate of at least AED 30,000 a month.
- Scientists/Researchers: Must provide proof of a PhD or Master’s degree in approved STEM fields, as outlined by the UAE’s MoE. They must also provide proof of a scopus h-index of at least 20 or a field weighted citation index of at least one.
- Exceptional Students: Must provide a high school certificate proving a GPA exceeding 95% or proof of a university degree from a top 100 global institution, where the student maintains at least a 3.8 GPA.
- Creative Professionals: Must provide certification of UNESCO or regional awards for cultural achievement as well as a CV outlining the applicant’s works, exhibitions, or media recognition.
- Frontline Heroes: Must provide a certification from the UAE government proving that the applicant is coming for crisis assistance.
- Elite Specialists: Must provide a practicing license for applicable vocations, such as doctors and engineers. Other individuals must provide proof of employment in approved sectors.
- Family Sponsorship: Must provide either an attested marriage certificate for spouses, an attested birth certificate for children, or a consulate-certified proof of dependency for parents.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Dubai’s Golden Visa
To apply, gather the required documents, ensure you have proper health insurance, apply through ICP, and give any required biometrics data. Let’s outline the steps below:
- Gather the Necessary Documents
Prepare the required documents outlined above. Having several copies is advisable.
- Use Dubai’s ICP Website or App to Start Your Application
Navigate to Nomination Request for a new Golden Visa and begin a new request.
- If necessary, create an account with your Emirates Pass or UAE Pass.
- Enter the Required Personal Information
This section asks for your name, contact details, passport details, nationality, and future UAE place of residence.
- Apply According to Your Golden Visa Category
If necessary, also select any applicable subcategories within your application, such as real estate investors.
- Upload Required Documents
Upload your passport, eligibility documents, photos, and proof of health insurance as a PDF or JPG.
- Review and Submit Your Application
Verify all input data and submit your application. You should receive a confirmation message containing your request number. The ICP approval timeline is generally 5–15 days.
- Apply for an Entry Permit
If you are approved, you should next submit an application for entry. At this point you will be asked to pay AED 100 (USD $27.23).
- Complete Biometrics
Applicants will most likely be asked to complete a biometrics screening. This entails a medical screening including blood tests, a chest X-ray, and a physical assessment as well as a general biometrics gathering, such as fingerprints.
How to Choose Health Insurance for Your Dubai Golden Visa
To get insurance that fulfills Dubai’s requirements for Golden Visa holders, select a provider, request quotes, complete your health declaration, and receive your policy. Find a plan that offers the highest-quality coverage for your specific health needs while still fitting your budget.
Health history such as age and pre-existing conditions may affect cost of care, and more coverage likely means a higher premium. The factors that contribute to your health insurance costs are your premium, deductible, copay, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximum. We have described each term below:
- Premiums are the amount you pay each month for health insurance.
- Deductibles are the amount you pay before your insurance covers costs.
- Copays are the amount you pay for medical visits, like doctor’s visits.
- Coinsurance is the coverage percentage you pay once you have met your deductible.
- The out-of-pocket maximum is the total maximum amount you may pay for health care within a term.
Once you have selected a provider and plan, you will begin your health insurance application process, which includes a health declaration. In your declaration you will be asked to outline your health history, including any pre-existing or chronic conditions. Always be honest.
To simplify the process of selecting a plan, get help from a professional broker. Brokers are not employed by individual insurance companies, so they can offer you the right plan for you, plus they can use their expertise to get you the best price available.
Because brokers work for you, they can help you beyond the shopping process. They also can help you submit claims, ensure you meet Dubai’s healthcare guidelines, and understand the country’s healthcare system.
Why Choose A Dubai Golden Visa for Your Move
Expats who want to move to Dubai could benefit from a Golden Visa in several ways. The Golden Visa grants long-term residency in Dubai for up to 10 years without the need to reside in the country, 100% business ownership, no need for sponsorship, and the ability to sponsor family members.
If the main Golden Visa holder passes away anytime within the duration of their visa, family members are still permitted to stay in the UAE until the visa’s expiration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is health insurance required for a Golden Visa to Dubai?
Health insurance is mandatory for long-term visas in Dubai, including the Golden Visa. If you are bringing dependents with you, they must also have health insurance that meets Dubai’s standards.
How much is Dubai health insurance?
Dubai health insurance costs will depend on the level of coverage you seek and any copays and deductibles you select with your plan. Premiums are also affected by your age, gender, and health history.
What will happen if my insurance lapses once I’ve gotten my visa?
Letting your insurance lapse could create serious complications: you may not be able to renew your visa or successfully get future visas, you may face legal action for violating UAE residency requirements, you could experience high medical costs. Plan ahead to avoid lapses in coverage.
Conclusion
Private health insurance is essential for Dubai Golden Visa applicants—not only to meet requirements but also to ensure access to Dubai’s high-quality healthcare. International health insurance ensures policyholders can access treatment regardless of where they are in the UAE and worldwide.
Pacific Prime boasts over 25 years of experience providing quality insurance options for travelers and expats, including those who want to expand their family while living abroad. By contacting a broker from Pacific Prime, you’re sure to find the right plan for you.
Pacific Prime offers travel insurance policies and health insurance plans as well as benefit packages for inpatient, outpatient, maternity, and dental care, so world travelers are sure to find specialized plans for their needs.
Contact our expert advisors to get a free, no-obligation quote or impartial advice, and experience the best insurance can offer. For more information on Dubai, check out our other articles:
- Freelancer Visa in Dubai: Do You Need Health Insurance?
- Family Visa Sponsorship in Dubai: Health Insurance Rules and Costs
Serena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!).
Her previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.
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