Relocating to Dubai, Sharjah, or even beyond the UAE’s borders does not mean you must forgo quality medical cover. The big question many newcomers ask is simple: Can I buy an Abu Dhabi-regulated health plan if I don’t actually live there? The short answer is yes—under the right circumstances. This guide explains how, outlines your options, and shows how insurancehub.ae can streamline the process.
Understanding Abu Dhabi’s Thiqa and Basic Plans
Abu Dhabi operates a two-tier framework: the Thiqa program for UAE nationals and the Basic Plan for lower-income expatriates earning under AED 5,000 monthly. If you do not hold an Abu Dhabi residency visa, you cannot enrol in Thiqa, but some insurers still extend Basic-equivalent coverage to residents of other emirates—provided your employer or sponsor registers the policy through an Abu Dhabi branch.
Option 1: UAE-Wide Private Health Plans
Most international insurers—Cigna, Sukoon, GIG Gulf—sell UAE-wide products licensed by the Central Bank. These plans meet or exceed Abu Dhabi minimum benefits (inpatient, outpatient, maternity, emergency) and can be purchased by Dubai or Sharjah residents. Premiums start around AED 1,800 per adult, rising with age and add-ons.
Option 2: Expatriate Plans via InsuranceHub.ae
Insurancehub.ae partners with 50+ insurers to offer expatriate-focused policies that mirror Abu Dhabi benefits but provide nationwide hospital networks. Typical features include:
- Annual limits of AED 150,000–AED 500,000.
- Co-payments capped at 20 % per visit.
- Direct billing at major facilities like Mediclinic and NMC.
Option 3: International Health Insurance
Frequent flyers and digital nomads often prefer worldwide cover. Insurers such as Allianz and Bupa Global allow UAE policy issuance without an Abu Dhabi visa. Expect higher premiums (USD 2,500+ per year) but global hospital access.
Key Eligibility Requirements
- Valid UAE entry or residence visa (any emirate).
- Passport copy and Emirates ID (or application slip).
- Completed medical declaration; pre-existing conditions may attract waiting periods.
Step-by-Step Application Through InsuranceHub.ae
- Visit insurancehub.ae and choose Health → Individual.
- Enter your emirate, age, and basic details to generate instant quotes.
- Compare benefits side by side—look for maternity, dental, and chronic illness cover.
- Upload documents; an advisor verifies compliance with Abu Dhabi or federal laws.
- Pay securely online and receive your e-card within 24 hours.
You do not need to reside in the capital to access Abu Dhabi-level medical protection. By leveraging the comparison tools and licensed advice at insurancehub.ae, expatriates across the UAE—and even GCC visitors—can secure flexible, affordable health insurance in a matter of hours. Stay protected wherever you live.
