What Counts as a Pre-existing Condition?
DHA defines it as any illness, injury, or congenital anomaly for which symptoms existed or medical advice/treatment was sought in the 12 months before the policy effective date. Common examples include:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Asthma or COPD
- Heart disease or past stents
- Thyroid disorders
- Cancer in remission
How Insurers Respond
| Insurer Approach | Waiting Period | Extra Premium Loading | Coverage Caps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard EBP | 6 months | None | AED 150 000 overall |
| Enhanced Plan A | Waived with continuous previous cover | 10 % – 25 % | Up to annual limit |
| Enhanced Plan B | 6 months | 15 % – 30 % | Pre-existing capped at AED 250 000 |
| Premium Plan | Waived | 0 % – 10 % | Unlimited |
InsuranceHub.ae continuously updates this matrix so you can filter carriers by waiting-period flexibility and loadings.
Practical Steps to Improve Approval Odds
1. Gather Medical Documentation
Compile recent lab reports, discharge summaries, and prescription lists. Up-to-date evidence of controlled metrics (e.g., HbA1c < 7 %) reassures underwriters and may cut premium loadings.
2. Disclose Honestly
Non-disclosure is considered fraud and can void future claims. DHA and Central Bank audits make data sharing easy, so transparency protects you.
3. Consider a Higher Deductible
Electing a modest outpatient deductible (AED 50-100) can offset premium surcharges. InsuranceHub’s quote engine lets you test deductible scenarios instantly.
4. Explore Condition-specific Riders
Some insurers offer disease-management add-ons—such as free glucometers and dietician consultations - that both improve outcomes and reduce long-term costs.
5. Use a Broker That Negotiates
Because InsuranceHub.ae funnels large group volumes, partner insurers sometimes grant underwriting exceptions -like partial waiting-period waivers- unavailable to walk-in applicants.
Myths Debunked
“Insurers will always reject me.” In reality, the DHA obliges insurers to offer at least basic cover to every legal resident. Rejection is rare; premium loading or waiting periods are more common.
“I can hide my illness and claim later.” Electronic medical records now sync across providers. Concealment leads to claim denial and policy cancellation.
“Premiums double if I have diabetes.” Loadings are usually 10-30 %, not 100 %, especially when the condition is well controlled.
The Bottom Line
Buying health insurance with pre-existing conditions in Dubai requires strategy, but legal protections and competitive insurers make it feasible. Honest disclosure, thorough documentation, and expert brokerage from InsuranceHub.ae together ensure you secure the coverage you deserve - without punitive costs or gaps when you need care most.
