Expats in Dubai: Accessing Public Hospitals with the DHA Card
May 8, 2025
Copy Link
Sources
14
Show Sources in Text
Navigating the healthcare system in a new country can feel overwhelming, and Dubai is no exception. While known for its excellent healthcare standards, expats often wonder about accessing public hospitals versus the many private options 
[1]
[3]
[7]. Dubai operates a dual healthcare system, with both public and private providers offering high-quality care [7]. Crucially, the ISAHD law mandates health insurance for all residents, ensuring everyone has access to necessary medical services 
[8]
[9].pdf&size=28)
[11]. This guide is here to clear up the confusion, explaining the role of the DHA Health Card and how expats can indeed access public hospitals, based on official regulations [1][7][3]. You'll learn how the health card works, how to register, the associated costs and benefits, and how it fits alongside your mandatory private insurance when considering public hospital care.
What is the DHA Health Card?
So, what exactly is this DHA Health Card? Historically, it was the main document needed for both UAE Nationals and expats to use government healthcare facilities (like DHA hospitals and clinics) at subsidized rates [1][3]. Think of it as the key to accessing the public system before mandatory private insurance became the norm for expatriates under Law No. 11 of 2013 [8][9]. While private insurance is now the primary requirement for expats, the health card system hasn't disappeared entirely [8][9]. It still exists, often managed under Emirates Health Services (EHS) or simply linked to your Emirates ID, and serves as a registration tool for the public system 
[2]
[5]
[12]. Having one can potentially grant access to services at subsidized rates compared to what you might pay without it or even through some private insurance plans[5][12][3]. Your Emirates ID itself is often used to access these services once you're registered, making things a bit more streamlined[12].
Getting a DHA Health Card: Eligibility, Process & Costs
Wondering if you can get a DHA Health Card? Good news – eligibility is quite broad. It includes UAE Citizens, GCC Nationals (whether residents or just visiting), and importantly, non-UAE resident expatriates [5]. Even newborns can be registered for a card [5]. The application process has largely moved online, typically through the EHS portal (though older systems might have used DHA portals directly), or sometimes via medical typing centers found across the emirate [2][5][12]. You'll usually log in using your UAE PASS or Emirates ID to start the process [5].
You'll need a few documents ready. Generally, this includes a valid Emirates ID (or your passport and visa copy if the EID is still being processed), passport details, your residence visa, passport-sized photos, and sometimes proof of your Dubai address, like a tenancy contract [1][2][5]
[14]. The steps are straightforward: fill out the application form online, upload your documents, and pay the necessary fees [5].
Speaking of fees, what's the cost? For expats, sources suggest a range, often cited between AED 100 and AED 320 per year, though fees can vary based on age and specific status [1][3][12]. It's worth noting that some general UAE information mentions much higher figures, but these likely refer to different circumstances or types of registration, not the basic access card [12]. For non-GCC expats, the card is typically valid for one year and needs renewal [5][12][3].
Benefits & Relevance of the Health Card for Expats Today
Okay, so you have mandatory private insurance. Why bother getting a DHA Health Card? The main draw is the potential access to healthcare services at subsidized rates within the government's network of hospitals and clinics (DHA/EHS facilities) [5]. Honestly, even with good private insurance, there might be situations where the health card proves useful [7][3]. Your private plan might have high co-pays or deductibles for certain treatments, or perhaps limitations or exclusions for specific services[7][3]. In these cases, using the public system with a health card could be significantly more affordable or provide access to care not covered by your basic private plan, like the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP)[7][3]. Think of the health card as your registration key for the public system – it allows you to schedule appointments and receive treatment there[12][3]. While it might be needed for accessing non-emergency services at public clinics, rest assured that emergency treatment itself is generally provided even if you don't have the card beforehand
[4][3].
How Expats Can Access Public Hospitals in Dubai
Let's get straight to the point: Yes, expats living in Dubai absolutely can use public hospitals and healthcare facilities run by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or Emirates Health Services (EHS) [1][7][3]. These include well-known facilities like Dubai Hospital and Rashid Hospital, which maintain high standards of care[1]
[13]. So, how does it work? Generally, you need to be registered in the public system, and obtaining the health card (or using your linked Emirates ID) is the usual way to do this[12][3]. This registration allows you to schedule appointments and access treatments within these public facilities[12][3].
Why might an expat choose a public hospital? Emergencies are a major reason; public hospitals like Rashid Hospital have excellent, highly regarded trauma centers
[10]. You might also seek treatment at a public facility for specialized care that's particularly strong there, or if it turns out to be more cost-effective than private options, especially if your insurance has limitations or high out-of-pocket costs for certain procedures[7][3]
[6]. The public system offers a valuable alternative or supplement to private care for the expat community [1][7].
Understanding the Costs for Expats in Public Hospitals
It's crucial to understand that while UAE Nationals receive healthcare in public facilities for free or at very low cost, this isn't the case for expats [4][7]. As an expatriate, you will be required to pay for the services you receive in public hospitals[4][7]. However, the costs are generally higher than what nationals pay but are often subsidized compared to the full charges you might encounter in the private sector, particularly if you use your health card[7][6]. The exact amount will depend on the specific medical service you need [7].
How does your mandatory private insurance fit in? Your insurance plan might cover treatment received in a public hospital, but this depends entirely on whether the public facility is included in your specific insurance network and the details of your coverage[1]. Even if your insurance does cover the treatment, be prepared for potential co-payments or deductibles, just as you might face in the private sector[1]. If you use a public hospital for a service that your private insurance doesn't cover, you'll typically pay the required fees out-of-pocket, potentially benefiting from the subsidized rate if you've registered with a health card[7][3].
Key Considerations: Public vs. Private for Expats
When deciding between public and private healthcare options in Dubai, expats should weigh a few factors. Rest assured, public hospitals in Dubai maintain high standards of medical care, comparable to international levels[1][13]. However, one common difference expats might notice is potentially longer waiting times for appointments or non-emergency procedures in the public system compared to private facilities[3]. While English is very widely spoken across Dubai's entire healthcare sector due to the diverse workforce, some expats might find navigating the administrative processes or communication slightly easier in the private sector, which often caters heavily to an international clientele[3][14]. Private facilities might also offer more luxurious amenities, though the core medical quality in public hospitals remains strong.
Emergency Access to Public Hospitals
What happens in an emergency? This is where the system truly shines in its accessibility. Emergency medical treatment at public hospitals is available to everyone in Dubai, regardless of residency status – this includes expats and tourists[10][3]. If you arrive at a public hospital emergency department without prior registration or a health card, don't worry. A provisional card might be issued on the spot to facilitate your emergency care registration if needed[3]. The priority is always to provide immediate, necessary care in urgent situations [10].
Try It for Free