Health insurance cost UAE 2025 is essential for expats living in the UAE, but beneath the advertised premiums lie several hidden costs that can catch you off guard. Understanding these in 2025 is key to avoiding budget surprises and ensuring full coverage when you need it most.
One common hidden cost is the co-payment or co-insurance—a percentage of the medical bill you must pay out of pocket. Many expat plans advertise low premiums but come with high co-pays, especially for specialist visits or branded medications. Similarly, deductibles (the amount you pay before coverage kicks in) can vary significantly between policies.
Another cost to watch is out-of-network treatment. Choosing a doctor or clinic not in your insurer’s approved list can lead to full payment or partial reimbursement. Also, some policies exclude pre-existing conditions or have waiting periods for maternity, dental, or chronic care.
Annual benefit limits, coverage caps, and non-disclosed exclusions (like alternative therapies or mental health support) can further reduce what you thought was covered.
