US based UnitedHealthcare International has signed a new alliance with Dubai-based Al Sagr National Insurance to offer international insurance coverage to employers with employees in the Middle East.

The deal will provide local insurance cover UnitedHealthcare’s Global Solutions members located in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Qatar, Oman, Lebanon, Bahrain and Kuwait.

UnitedHealth Group Global Health president Simon Stevens said the firm was committed to addressing the challenges faced by its clients across the globe, by making seamless access to high quality health care easier.

"In the Middle East we are helping people to live healthier lives by working to prevent diabetes, modernize hospitals, and provide primary and emergency care. Providing comprehensive global health coverage for expatriates and employers is an important next step," Stevens added.

The new initiative will expand the insurer’s international capabilities and influences its global network of health care providers, and expertise with health information, technology and care management, in a step to enhance care quality and health outcomes.