Abu Dhabi has introduced flexible health insurance options for entrepreneurs and investors that seek to live and work in the emirate, in response to the rising needs of the market and to elevate the emirate’s position as an attractive destination.

The insurance options are launched by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED).

The flexible health insurance policy benefits community members including expatriates residing in the emirate who work in the private sector, provided that their monthly income exceeds AED5,000. It also includes investors and holders of free business licenses, their families and their employees, as well as the family of the resident expatriate and their workers who are not covered by health insurance from the employer (governmental or private).

According to a statement from the Abu Dhabi Media Office, the insurance coverage can be availed for the costs of treatment services amounting to AED150,000 annually. Other insurance features include: 100% emergency coverage, 20% copay of the cost of all outpatient treatment services and 30% copay for medications. The programme also offers the possibility of upgrading insurance coverage according to the patient’s needs.

Dr. Mariam Al Mazrouei, Executive Director of Healthcare Payers Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said: "The insurance policy was initiated to provide a health insurance package that enhances competitiveness in the sector while attracting businesses in the private sector. This is in light of what Abu Dhabi represents as a leading destination for those wishing to develop their businesses in various fields, due to its advanced infrastructure and incentive measures."

Companies or individuals planning to subscribe to the 'flexible health insurance' policy must contact health insurance companies when the current health insurance policy is about to expire to obtain more details and apply to the 'flexible health insurance' if the eligibility conditions are met, DoH stated.

(Writing by Seban Scaria; editing by Daniel Luiz)

(seban.scaria@lseg.com)