Is Annual Health Insurance Renewal Mandatory for Golden Visa Holders in Dubai

A reader from Dubai inquires whether it is compulsory for him to renew the health insurance for himself and his family every year.

Question: I am a Golden Visa holder in Dubai. Is it mandatory for me to renew the health insurance for myself and my family annually?

Answer: Based on Dubai’s health insurance regulations, the law clearly applies to all residents, including Golden Visa holders.

In Dubai, it is the responsibility of the sponsor to ensure health insurance coverage for individuals they sponsor, provided they are not covered by an employer.

This includes bearing the cost of the health insurance without charging the beneficiaries.

This requirement is specified in Article 11 of Law No. (11) of 2013, Concerning Health Insurance in the Emirate of Dubai.

The sponsor must:

Enroll the sponsored persons if they are not covered by an employer’s health insurance.

Bear the full cost of health insurance for the sponsored persons, without charging them.

Ensure the health insurance remains valid throughout the duration of their residence or visit.

Pay for emergency medical services if the sponsored person is without insurance.

Provide a health insurance card to the sponsored individuals.

Present a valid health insurance policy when renewing or issuing residence or visit permits for the sponsored persons.

Comply with other relevant DHA (Dubai Health Authority) regulations.

Therefore, even as a Golden Visa holder, you are required to obtain and renew health insurance for yourself and your family members in line with these legal obligations.