madyones Emirati citizens receive free healthcare via public facilities managed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), expats and residents require private health insurance
Health services in Dubai are provided by both public and private sectors, ensuring comprehensive and high-quality healthcare for residents, citizens, and visitors. Public sector healthcare services are mainly provided by Dubai Health via its vast network that includes 6 hospitals, 26 health centers and 20 medical fitness centers.
Healthcare Regulator
Dubai Health Authority (DHA) provides complete oversight of the regulation and governance of the healthcare sector within the emirate of Dubai by designing health policies, strategies and standards for developing, regulating, licensing and monitoring the provision of healthcare services provided by the public and private healthcare facilities.
DHA mandate also includes governing and managing health insurance, health investment, and health tourism services. Furthermore, DHA is responsible for Preventive Medicine and Occupational Health and Safety and setting the Medical Education Strategy in Dubai and regulating the provision of medical education, clinical research and trials.
For emergencies and urgent patient transfers, you can call Ambulance on 998 24/7.
Health Insurance
According to Law No 11 of 2013 Concerning Health Insurance in the Emirate of Dubai (“Dubai Health Law”), Health insurance in Dubai is a mandatory requirement. Employers in Dubai, including those in free zones, are responsible for providing health insurance to their employees. Sponsors are also required to extend health insurance coverage to dependents, such as spouses, children, and domestic workers. Read More.
ENAYA
Dubai citizens and government employees are eligible to get health insurance under ENAYA program. The Enaya Insurance Program is a healthcare scheme developed by the Government of Dubai to provide comprehensive health benefits to Dubai Government employees, their families, and Dubai citizens.
Other Insurance Packages
Private sector companies and family sponsors can get health insurance coverage for their dependents from insurance companies authorized by Dubai Health Authority. The insurance packages focus on inclusivity and compliance with Dubai’s health insurance law, guaranteeing accessible healthcare for all categories of residents.
To get an insurance coverage, the employer or sponsor will submit an application to an approved insurance company. The cost varies depending on the benefits they wish to receive.
Medical Fitness for Residence Visa
To obtain a residence visa in Dubai, applicants aged 18 and above are required to undergo a medical fitness test to ensure they are free from communicable diseases. These tests are conducted by medical fitness centers managed by Dubai Health.
Within Dubai Health, there are 23 medical fitness centers spread across the Emirate of Dubai and offering health checks for all those coming to the Emirate for work, residence or study.
To apply for the service, you must approach the nearest medical fitness center in Dubai to conduct tests and pay fees. Test results are typically available within 24 hours and are communicated via email and SMS.
Mental Health
As a part of Dubai Government efforts to provide high-quality mental healthcare service, Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has established comprehensive standards for mental health services, effective from February 2025. These standards apply to all DHA-licensed health facilities providing mental health services, including hospitals and outpatient clinics. The guidelines outline the required infrastructure to ensure patient and staff safety. The document ensures that patients receive care from competent and certified practitioners and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a charter of patients’ rights and responsibilities.
