Daman - National Health Insurance Company

Background

Established in 2006, the National Health Insurance Company – Daman is the UAE's leading health insurer, providing comprehensive health insurance solutions to over three million members. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, Daman is a subsidiary of PureHealth, the UAE's largest integrated healthcare platform. The company's mission is to offer innovative insurance products and services, fostering partnerships with governments to achieve sustainable growth. Daman's vision emphasizes delivering high-quality healthcare services and cultivating a healthier community, aligning with the UAE's strategic objectives for a thriving, sustainable healthcare system.

Key Strategic Focus

Daman's strategic focus centers on four primary objectives:

1. Sustaining Government Partnerships: Continuing its extensive collaboration with government entities to design, implement, and monitor high-quality healthcare systems.

2. Expanding Insurance Footprint: Growing its product value proposition and increasing market share within and beyond health insurance.

3. Achieving Operational Excellence: Pursuing excellence across core and support functions to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.

4. Innovative Smart Solutions: Integrating state-of-the-art technology to lead the healthcare insurance sector in digital innovation.

Financials and Funding

Daman is a Public Joint Stock Company, with 100% ownership by PureHealth LLC. The company has achieved significant growth, expanding its membership base from 2.8 million to over three million in 2024. This growth reflects Daman's strong financial performance and its ability to attract and retain a large customer base.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Daman distinguishes itself through its commitment to technological innovation:

Digital Services: The company offers a diverse range of digital services, including the "Hayakom Thiqa digital branch services," enabling members to access the entire portfolio of services online.

Cardless Insurance: In 2017, Daman linked insurance policies to members' Emirates ID numbers, eliminating the need for separate insurance cards.

Disease Management Programs: Daman provides programs such as the Diabetes Management Program, offering nutritional and exercise advice, personal support, and educational resources to enrolled patients.

Leadership Team

Khaled Ateeq Al Dhaheri: Appointed as Chief Executive Officer in 2024, Al Dhaheri has been instrumental in driving Daman's strategic vision and operational excellence.

H.E. Khaled Bin Shaiban Almehairi: Serving as Chairman, Almehairi provides strategic oversight and leadership to the company.

Leadership Changes

In 2024, Khaled Ateeq Al Dhaheri was appointed as CEO, succeeding Hamad Al Mehyas. This leadership change aligns with Daman's strategic direction and commitment to innovation and growth.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The UAE health insurance market is experiencing significant growth, with the market size reaching USD 8.7 billion in 2024 and projected to reach USD 14.9 billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.1% during 2025-2033. This growth is driven by factors such as rising healthcare costs, increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases, and favorable government initiatives mandating health insurance coverage.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the UAE health insurance market include:

AXA Gulf Insurance: Offers a range of health insurance products and has partnered with Daman to launch a new Global Healthcare Plan, enhancing health benefits and international services to UAE residents.

Emirates Insurance Company: Provides comprehensive health insurance solutions and has a significant market presence in the UAE.

Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company (ADNIC): Offers various health insurance plans and has a strong foothold in the UAE market.

Oman Insurance Company: Provides a wide range of health insurance products and services, catering to both individuals and corporates.

These competitors focus on offering diverse health insurance products, leveraging technological advancements, and forming strategic partnerships to enhance their market positions.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Daman has engaged in significant collaborations to strengthen its market position:

AXA Partnership: In April 2024, Daman partnered with AXA to launch a new Global Healthcare Plan, offering enhanced health benefits and international services to UAE residents.

United Arab Emirates University Collaboration: In October 2022, Daman partnered with the United Arab Emirates University to organize scientific debates on sustainable development goals, reflecting its commitment to community engagement and education.

Operational Insights

Daman's strategic considerations include:

Market Position: As the largest health insurer in the UAE, Daman maintains a competitive edge through its extensive network of over 3,000 medical facilities and a membership base exceeding three million.

Technological Innovation: The company's focus on digital services, such as the "Hayakom Thiqa digital branch services," and initiatives like cardless insurance, positions it as a leader in health insurance innovation.

Customer-Centric Approach: Daman's commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences is evident through its 24/7 customer call center and personalized disease management programs.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Daman's strategic roadmap includes:

Expansion of Product Offerings: Developing new insurance products and services to cater to diverse customer needs and expanding beyond health insurance.

Geographical Expansion: Exploring opportunities to extend its services beyond the UAE, leveraging its expertise and partnerships.

Enhanced Digital Transformation: Continuing to invest in digital technologies to improve customer engagement, streamline operations, and offer innovative solutions.

Strengthening Government Partnerships: Maintaining and growing collaborations with government entities to support public health initiatives and programs.