Navigating Retirement in Dubai: Essential Insights on Health Insurance, Consultancy Opportunities, and Family Sponsorship
Dubai is becoming a popular destination for retirees, offering a five-year retirement visa for eligible individuals looking to make the city their long-term home. Whether you have spent years working in the UAE or are considering relocating for retirement, there are several practical matters to address before making the transition.
Is Health Insurance Mandatory?
A valid health insurance policy is essential for obtaining Dubai’s five-year retirement visa. Previously, if you worked in the UAE’s private sector, your employer would have covered your health insurance as mandated by UAE Labour Law. However, upon retirement, securing your own health insurance becomes your responsibility.
Dr. Abdul Wasay Mohammed, Senior Manager of Medical Claims at Watania Takaful Insurance Company, emphasizes the importance of starting this process early. He advises residents to compare policies well in advance of retirement, noting that obtaining health insurance is not an instantaneous process. Customization for individual needs may require multiple documents and possibly medical assessments before the application can be finalized.
Pre-existing Conditions
When applying for health insurance, retirees must complete a Medical Assessment Form (MAF), which includes 15 to 20 questions regarding their medical history, including any pre-existing conditions. Accurate disclosure of these conditions is crucial, as it influences the insurance company’s assessment of the application, the level of coverage available, and the premium costs. Dr. Mohammed also mentions that retirees with pre-existing conditions may need a report from their treating physician to provide additional information on necessary medications and any anticipated procedures.
How Much Does Health Insurance for a Retiree Cost?
The cost of health insurance for retirees can vary significantly based on factors such as age, medical history, hospital network requirements, and geographical coverage. Dr. Mohammed outlines indicative annual premiums that retirees might expect:
- Ages 60 to 65: Approximately AED 8,000 to AED 15,000
- Ages 65 to 70: Approximately AED 12,000 to AED 20,000
- Above 70: Approximately AED 18,000 to AED 35,000 or more
These figures represent estimated ranges, and actual premiums may differ based on individual circumstances. The costs mentioned are for one-year health insurance policies.
Can I Still Work if I Am on a Retirement Visa?
Retirees looking for a steady income have several options available. Ahmed El Naggar, Founder and Managing Partner of Elnaggar & Partners, explains that retirees can take on consultancy roles if they possess expertise in their field. However, securing a full-time job may present challenges.
An employment permit requires annual approval from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). In contrast, retirees can establish their own consulting businesses while on a retirement visa. However, they must obtain a freelance or service license, depending on the nature of the consulting services offered.
Can I Sponsor My Family on the Retirement Visa?
Retirees holding either a five-year retirement visa or a ten-year Golden Visa may sponsor certain family members. According to El Naggar, eligible family members include:
- Sons up to the age of 25
- Daughters of any age, provided they are unmarried
Additionally, retirees may sponsor their parents if they can demonstrate dependency. Although parents are not typically classified as dependents for family visa issuance, retirees can visit the immigration department to seek dependent status for their parents by providing a formal Consular Affidavit or Dependency Certificate from their home country’s consulate in Dubai.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-07-21 17:00:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk