Insurance is a big part of life in the UAE — whether you’re living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or another emirate.
When I first arrived, I was lost between obligations, coverage options, and the differences between “basic” and “premium.”
It’s completely normal — the system is unique and very different from Europe.
This clear and friendly guide explains everything expats need to know:
- health insurance
- car insurance
- home insurance
- life insurance
- average prices
- recommended companies
- Health Insurance (Mandatory in the UAE)
Health insurance is mandatory for all residents.
Who must provide the insurance?
- Dubai: the employer must insure each employee
- Abu Dhabi: employer + family
- Free Zones: usually the employer, but not always
Average Prices 2025:
- Basic insurance: 800–1,500 AED/year
- Standard expat plan: 2,000–4,500 AED/year
- Premium plan: 6,000–18,000+ AED/year
What it usually covers:
- consultations
- emergencies
- medication
- hospitalization
What it usually doesn’t cover:
- dental (often optional)
- optical
- premium maternity (depends on the plan)
- Car Insurance (Mandatory)
If you drive in the UAE, you must have valid car insurance.
Types:
- Third-party (mandatory)
- Comprehensive (recommended)
Average Prices 2025:
- Small car: 1,200–1,600 AED/year
- SUV / 4×4: 1,800–3,000 AED/year
Coverage includes:
- accidents
- damages
- roadside assistance
- towing
Popular companies:
- AXA
- Orient Insurance
- RSA
- Oman Insurance
- Home Insurance (Optional but Recommended)
Many expats overlook this — but in Dubai, buildings do not cover your personal belongings.
Average Price:
200–600 AED/year
Coverage includes:
- fires
- water damage
- theft
- property damage
- liability protection
A small price for big peace of mind.
- Life Insurance (Optional for Expats)
Life insurance is often included in bank packages.
Why take one?
- family protection
- mortgage requirements
- accident coverage
Average Price:
150–500 AED/month depending on age and health.
- Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended)
Very useful if you travel frequently from Dubai.
Price:
30–80 AED per trip
or
200–600 AED per year (annual plan)
Coverage includes:
- cancelled flights
- lost luggage
- hospitalization abroad
- Best Insurance Companies (2025)
Health:
- Daman
- Aetna
- Cigna
- Oman Insurance
- AXA
Car:
- RSA
- AXA
- Orient
- Tokio Marine
Home:
- AXA
- RSA
- Oman Insurance
Life:
- Zurich
- MetLife
- Tips to Choose the Right Insurance
- Check the hospital network
- Review exclusions carefully
- Confirm medication reimbursement
- Compare prices with 2–3 brokers
- Don’t choose only based on price
- Common Mistakes Expats Make
- choosing a health plan that’s too basic
- ignoring maternity coverage
- not insuring their home
- not understanding annual limits
Conclusion
The insurance system in the UAE is very complete but you need to choose the right coverage based on your lifestyle.
With the right guidance, you can protect yourself effectively without overspending.
Find insurance brokers, medical providers, car insurance specialists, and financial advisors on The Expat Services Directory your trusted partner for living safely in Dubai.
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