Question 1

Which is better, Aetna International or Cigna?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your needs. Aetna International has 6,001 providers across 8 cities and offers 2 plans starting from AED 7,000/yr. Cigna has 9,074 providers across 8 cities with 3 plans from AED 3,500/yr. Choose Aetna International if you need strong coverage and established reputation. Choose Cigna if you prioritise a larger provider network, lower entry-level premiums, more plan tiers to choose from, more comprehensive coverage options.

Question 2

Is Aetna International cheaper than Cigna?

Accepted Answer

No, Cigna's entry-level plan starts from AED 3,500/yr, while Aetna International's cheapest plan begins at AED 7,000/yr. Pricing varies significantly by age, nationality, and plan tier, so obtain personalised quotes from both insurers.

Question 3

Which has a bigger network in Dubai, Aetna International or Cigna?

Accepted Answer

Cigna has a larger Dubai network with 4,984 providers, compared to Aetna International's 3,779 providers. Network sizes are based on the UAE Open Healthcare Directory data.

Question 4

Does Aetna International or Cigna cover dental?

Accepted Answer

Both insurers offer dental coverage on their enhanced and premium plans. Aetna International's dental sub-limit goes up to AED 12,000/yr, while Cigna offers up to AED 15,000/yr. Basic plans from both insurers typically exclude dental.

Question 5

Can I switch from Aetna International to Cigna?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can switch insurers during your policy renewal period. In the UAE, health insurance is typically renewed annually. When switching from Aetna International to Cigna (or vice versa), be aware of: (1) Pre-existing condition waiting periods may restart — check the new insurer's policy, (2) Maternity waiting periods usually reset, (3) Any ongoing treatment authorisations need to be re-submitted. Coordinate with your employer's HR department if on a group plan. Both Aetna International and Cigna have dedicated claims and onboarding teams to facilitate the transition.

Question 6

How do I compare Aetna International and Cigna plans?

Accepted Answer

Use the UAE Health Insurance Navigator on this page to compare Aetna International and Cigna side-by-side. Key factors to compare: (1) Annual premium — Aetna International starts from AED 7,000/yr, Cigna from AED 3,500/yr, (2) Network size — 6,001 vs 9,074 providers, (3) Coverage — dental, optical, maternity, and mental health inclusion, (4) Co-pay percentages, and (5) Provider availability in your city. Scroll down for the full comparison table.

Attribute	Aetna International	Cigna
Type	private	private
Founded	1853	1982
Headquarters	Dubai	Dubai
Regulators	DHA, HAAD	DHA, HAAD, MOHAP
Number of Plans	2	3
Premium Range	AED 7,000 – 36,000	AED 3,500 – 40,000
Total Network Size	6,001	9,074
Cities Covered	8	8
Dental	Yes	Yes
Optical	Yes	Yes
Maternity	Yes	Yes
Mental Health	Yes	Yes
International	Yes	Yes
Co-pay Range	0% – 20%	0% – 20%
Claims Phone	800-423862	800-244627

City	Aetna International	vs	Cigna
Dubai	3,779	vs	4,984
Abu Dhabi	1,252	vs	2,123
Sharjah	391	vs	965
Al Ain	221	vs	396
Ajman	146	vs	260
Ras Al Khaimah	116	vs	193
Fujairah	78	vs	119
Umm Al Quwain	18	vs	34

Aetna International vs Cigna

Aetna International

Cigna

Aetna International vs Cigna — At a Glance

Network Comparison by City

Aetna International Plans

Aetna Core Health

Aetna Premier

Cigna Plans

Cigna Essential Care

Cigna Global Health Options

Cigna Global Health Platinum

Verdict

Aetna International vs Cigna — FAQ

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