Why you need health Insurance and How to choose the Best Health Insurance in UAE

⏱️ 6 minutes read



Why you need health Insurance


Health insurance is essential in today’s world, especially in a country like the UAE where medical expenses can be significantly high. It not only provides financial protection during unexpected health emergencies but also ensures access to quality healthcare services without the burden of out-of-pocket costs. In cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, health insurance is mandatory by law, making it a legal requirement for residents and employees. With a good insurance plan, individuals and families can benefit from cashless treatments at top hospitals, coverage for routine checkups, surgeries, maternity care, and even pre- and post-hospitalization expenses. More importantly, health insurance offers peace of mind—knowing that in times of medical need, you and your loved ones are protected both physically and financially.

Why One Should Have a Health Insurance Policy


Considering these growing expenses, it can be financially draining for an individual or family to manage healthcare costs on their own. That’s where health insurance becomes essential, providing financial protection from sudden and large medical bills.

While it’s mandatory to have health insurance for all residents as per UAE law, many still opt for the cheapest plans without understanding what’s covered—and what’s not.

This often leads to paying up to 65% more during emergencies because the plan didn’t offer real support when it was most needed.

The Smart Way to Choose the Best Health Insurance in UAE in 2025


Instead of relying on outdated information or marketing gimmicks, use platforms like InsuranceHub.ae, which simplifies your search by digitally comparing quotes from top providers like Daman, Cigna, Sukoon, GIG Gulf, MetLife, and Takaful Emarat.


Key Features to Look for in a Good Health Insurance Plan:


1. Claim Settlement Ratio


This reflects how reliably an insurer settles claims. A 90% ratio means that out of 100 claims, 90 were paid successfully. Choose insurers with high claim settlement ratios to ensure your claims are honored smoothly.


2. Network of Partnered Hospitals


Uncertainty is the norm in healthcare. Choose a provider with a vast, cashless hospital network so that you or your family can get treatment without hassle. Daman and MetLife, for example, offer thousands of approved healthcare centers across the Emirates.


3. Pre- and Post-Hospitalization Coverage


Choose a plan that includes doctor visits, lab tests, and medication costs before and after admission. Sukoon and GIG Gulf offer highly customizable plans that cover such costs extensively.


4. No Claim Bonus (NCB)


Plans like those offered by Cigna and Sukoon often provide NCBs, which increase your coverage amount each year you don’t make a claim—at no extra cost.


5. Cost vs Value


Don’t just look for the cheapest plan. Instead, compare premiums, benefits, co-pays, and network coverage side-by-side using tools like InsuranceHub.ae, which can help you save up to 40% annually by comparing across multiple insurers.


 How to choose the Best Health Insurance in UAE


1. InsuranceHub.ae


InsuranceHub.ae is a UAE-based comparison platform that helps individuals, families, and businesses find the best health insurance plans from leading providers. With access to expert advisors and tailored quotes, it’s ideal for anyone seeking transparent, affordable, and hassle-free health coverage.


2. Daman Health Insurance


As Abu Dhabi’s primary health insurer and a government-backed entity, Daman is renowned for its extensive UAE-wide medical network and reliability. It offers a wide range of plans for individuals, families, and corporates, supported by a user-friendly digital platform and mobile app for seamless access and claims.



3. Sukoon Insurance (formerly Oman Insurance)


Sukoon combines long-standing industry credibility with flexible and Shariah-compliant (Takaful) plans. Known for its financial stability and wide provider network, it serves diverse clients—from individuals to corporates—while offering customisable plans that suit varied budgets and healthcare needs.


4. Cigna Insurance

Cigna

is a global health services leader offering robust international and UAE-specific plans. Designed for expats and frequent travellers, it provides worldwide medical access, strong wellness benefits, and a tech-savvy platform for managing policies and claims across borders.



5. GIG Gulf (formerly AXA Gulf)


GIG Gulf builds on AXA’s legacy with comprehensive and flexible health insurance plans tailored to both individuals and businesses. Its focus on customer-centric service, vast provider network, and options for international coverage make it a reliable choice for expats and families.



6. MetLife Health Insurance


MetLife offers globally recognised health insurance with a strong emphasis on preventive care and wellness. With flexible plan designs and international reach, it is well-suited for expats, families, and professionals seeking both local and global healthcare access with added wellbeing features.



7. Takaful Emarat


Takaful Emarat is a Shariah-compliant health insurance provider offering affordable and ethical health coverage. With a cooperative model and a focus on accessibility, it caters to individuals and SMEs looking for comprehensive care aligned with Islamic finance principles



Key Features and Strengths:

Provider

Key Strengths

Notable Features

InsuranceHub.ae

- Compare top UAE insurers instantly
- Licensed expert advice
- Up to 40% savings

✔ 100% online process
✔ Central Bank-licensed advisors
✔ High Google rating (4.7 stars)

Daman

- Government-backed stability
- 3,000+ provider network
- Mobile-first experience

✔ Digital insurance card
✔ Chronic disease programs
✔ Customisable add-ons (dental, optical, etc.)

Sukoon Insurance

- Shariah-compliant (Takaful) options
- Strong UAE network
- 24/7 telehealth

✔ Custom plans with maternity, dental, optical
✔ Smooth claims process
✔ App-based policy management

Cigna

- Ideal for expats & global coverage
- Focus on wellness & mental health

✔ 1.5M+ global providers
✔ Preventive & mental health coverage
✔ DHA-compliant plans available

GIG Gulf

- AXA legacy with strong UAE presence
- Flexible international and family plans

✔ Dental/maternity add-ons
✔ Teleconsultations
✔ 24/7 support
✔ Emergency worldwide cover

MetLife

- International access with wellness focus
- Tailored plan options

✔ Preventive care & health checkups
✔ Virtual doctor access
✔ Wellness programs and lifestyle support

Takaful Emarat

- Ethical, affordable Islamic insurance
- Basic to full-feature plans

✔ Shariah-compliant structure
✔ Budget-friendly pricing
✔ Inpatient, outpatient, maternity & dental options



Making Your Final Choice: Securing the Right Health Plan


Choosing the right health insurance in the UAE can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it becomes a smart investment in your well-being. Providers like Daman, Cigna, and Takaful Emarat offer options for every need—from local coverage to global plans and Shariah-compliant benefits.


Quick Checklist to Choose the Best Plan:


  • Define Your Needs: Do you need maternity cover, chronic condition care, or a wide hospital network? Match your needs to providers like GIG Gulf or Sukoon.
  • Evaluate Health Insurance Cost: Don’t just focus on the premium. Look at deductibles, co-pays, and annual limits to understand the total health insurance cost.
  • Check Hospital Network: Ensure your preferred clinics or doctors are within the insurer's network. MetLife and Daman are strong in this area.
  • Plan for the Future: Choose a flexible plan that lets you add dependents or upgrade coverage without high penalties.

Final Thought:


The best plan gives you peace of mind and financial protection. Ready to compare? Use InsuranceHub.ae to explore top-rated options and get personalised health insurance cost estimates in minutes.