Insurance and special needs therapy in the UAE: what to ask your provider

Insurance terminology can obscure more than it clarifies. Here are the specific questions worth asking before you commit to a therapy plan.

Is the therapy type covered at all?

Ask specifically about ABA, speech and language therapy, and occupational therapy — coverage frequently differs between them even within the same policy.

Is pre-approval required?

Many insurers require pre-approval, often tied to a formal diagnosis and a treatment plan from a licensed provider. Starting therapy without checking this can mean an unexpected bill.

Is there a session or annual cap?

Ask for the exact number, not a general answer — some policies cover a set number of sessions per year regardless of ongoing need.

Does the provider need to be on a panel?

Some insurers only reimburse for providers on an approved list. Confirm this before starting with a specific therapist, not after.

Keep records

Save assessment reports, invoices and session summaries as you go — claims are far easier with documentation ready than reconstructed after the fact.