Viral WhatsApp messages warn of a 25% health insurance increase in 2026, but officials and industry experts say no confirmed policy changes currently support claims of an imminent premium spike.
WhatsApp Claims Under Scrutiny: Are UAE Health Insurance Premiums Set to Spike in 2026
UAE residents have recently been unsettled by a wave of WhatsApp messages and emails claiming that health insurance premiums will rise sharply—by as much as 18 to 25 per cent—from January 1, 2026. These messages have triggered anxiety among individuals and families, with many fearing a sudden and unavoidable jump in healthcare costs.
However, insurance professionals say the reality is far less dramatic than the viral claims suggest. According to industry experts, there is no nationwide or automatic increase planned for health insurance premiums at the start of 2026. Instead, pricing in the UAE health insurance market is determined on a case-by-case basis.
“There is no across-the-board 18 to 25 per cent hike scheduled for January 2026,” said Toshita Chauhan, chief business officer for general insurance at Policybazaar.ae. She explained that health insurance premiums are personalised and influenced by multiple factors, including a policyholder’s age, medical history, level of coverage, claims record, and the timing of renewal. “Premiums are not revised simply because a new calendar year begins. For the majority of residents, prices are expected to remain largely stable in the near term.”
While insurers have pushed back against the idea of a universal price surge, experts warn that fear-driven reactions could unintentionally lead to higher expenses for residents. Making rushed decisions—such as postponing renewals or switching to inadequate coverage—may create financial and medical risks.
“The real concern isn’t a sudden nationwide increase,” Chauhan added. “The bigger risk is people panicking and either delaying renewal or opting for cheaper plans with insufficient coverage. This can result in loss of access to hospitals, emergency services, or chronic care treatment, which becomes extremely costly when medical needs arise.”
Specialists note that health insurance costs in 2026 will continue to vary significantly depending on individual circumstances. Factors such as age, emirate of residence, type of insurance plan, hospital network, past claims, and whether coverage is employer-sponsored or privately purchased all play a role in determining pricing.
Medical inflation exists, but it is not spiralling
Addressing concerns about rising healthcare costs, Anas Mistareehi, CEO of eSanad, said that while medical inflation is a genuine issue both globally and regionally, the actual figures are far lower than those circulating online. “Healthcare inflation is currently estimated at around four to eight per cent,” he said. “Insurers are adjusting premiums in line with these realities rather than imposing sudden double-digit increases.”
Mistareehi also highlighted that competition within the UAE insurance market is helping keep prices under control. In some cases, insurers are offering improved benefits or more competitive pricing to retain customers, rather than raising premiums aggressively.
Importantly, residents who qualify for the UAE’s basic health insurance plan will not be affected by any increase. “The basic plan remains fixed at Dh320 per year, as confirmed by authorities,” Mistareehi noted, offering reassurance to lower-income residents.
Who may feel the impact most?
Although many residents may see little or no change in premiums, certain groups are more likely to experience increases. Families and senior citizens typically face higher costs due to more frequent healthcare usage and greater medical needs.
Industry estimates suggest that even a moderate increase of around 10 per cent can add up over time. A single adult might pay an additional Dh250 to Dh600 annually. For a family of four, the increase could range between Dh1,200 and Dh2,500. Seniors, depending on their health conditions and coverage requirements, could see premiums rise by Dh1,600 to Dh4,000 or more.
“Insurance pricing reflects how often healthcare services are used and the level of benefits selected,” Mistareehi explained. “That’s why older residents and families tend to feel the effects more strongly than younger individuals.”
Renewals in early 2026: what residents should know
Residents whose health insurance policies expire in January or February 2026 may encounter updated pricing if insurers revise plans at the start of the year. While there is no guaranteed way to lock in current rates, experts strongly recommend preparing well in advance.
Begin the renewal process before the end of the year, request quotes early, and compare multiple options,” Mistareehi advised. “Leaving renewals to the last minute limits choices and increases the risk of unexpected costs.”
Hidden expenses to watch out for
Even when premium increases are modest, policyholders may feel the impact through changes in out-of-pocket expenses. These can include higher co-payments, reduced outpatient limits, pharmacy caps, or adjustments to hospital networks.
“People usually notice changes first during outpatient visits—doctor consultations, diagnostic tests, and pharmacy purchases,” Mistareehi said. Such costs can quickly add up and strain household budgets.
Experts also caution that higher out-of-pocket expenses may discourage residents from seeking timely medical care. Delaying non-urgent treatments or preventive check-ups can lead to more serious health problems later, ultimately increasing overall healthcare costs and pushing premiums higher in the long run.
Common mistakes residents make
Insurance providers agree that one of the most costly mistakes residents make is choosing a health insurance plan based solely on price. Low-cost plans often come with limited hospital access, high co-payments, and low coverage caps, which can result in thousands of dirhams in unexpected expenses.
“The cheapest option is not always the most economical in the long run,” Mistareehi said. “Understanding the benefits, exclusions, and network coverage is essential.”
The consensus from industry experts is clear: residents should avoid panic, plan ahead, review their coverage carefully, and make informed decisions.
“Health insurance is no longer just an annual purchase,” Mistareehi concluded. “It’s an ongoing healthcare and financial commitment. Thoughtful planning and early preparation can make a significant difference.”
