The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced a comprehensive basic health insurance package for private sector employees and domestic workers.
The scheme, effective from 1 January 2025, extends coverage to workers in Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. While health insurance is already mandatory in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, this expansion ensures that 100% of the UAE workforce is covered.
Employers must provide the new health insurance policy as a requirement to issue or renew residency permits. However, workers holding valid work permits before 1 January 2024 are exempt until their residency renewals become due.
How to apply
Employers can purchase the policy through DubaiCare Network, accredited insurance providers, or platforms like the Insurance Pool website and mobile applications.
Applications are also accepted at business service centres across the UAE, simplifying the process for all involved.
Coverage details: Cost and Benefits
Priced at Dh320 annually, the insurance policy offers affordable access to healthcare with a two-year validity. If an employee’s visa is cancelled, the second-year premium is refundable.
The coverage includes:
- Inpatient Care: 20% co-payment, capped at Dh500 per visit, with a Dh1,000 annual limit, including medications. Beyond this, treatment costs are fully covered.
- Outpatient Care: 25% co-payment, limited to Dh100 per visit. Follow-up visits for the same condition within seven days are free.
- Medications: Co-payments are 30%, capped at Dh1,500 annually.
Support for chronic patients
Unlike many insurance plans, there is no waiting period for workers suffering from chronic illnesses. This ensures immediate treatment access for all workers aged 1 to 64 years. Workers over 64 are required to submit medical reports and disclosures.
Extending benefits to dependents
The scheme allows dependents, including family members, to avail the same benefits and pricing. This inclusivity strengthens healthcare security for workers’ families while easing the financial burden on employers.
Why this policy matters
The initiative reflects the UAE's commitment to providing a secure and equitable healthcare system. Khalil Al Khoori, Undersecretary of Labour Market and Emiratisation Operations at MoHRE, emphasised that the policy enhances workers’ quality of life and reduces financial strain caused by medical costs or unpaid sick leaves.
Al Khoori stated, “The Health Insurance Scheme is a milestone in ensuring comprehensive protection for all workers while promoting a secure, healthy work environment.”
Major General Saeed Salem Balhas Al Shamsi, Acting Director-General of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP), further highlighted the role of the electronic verification system. Before issuing residency permits, the ICP will ensure that workers are insured – a step aimed at protecting their basic rights.
Tech integration for seamless coverage
The health scheme also supports advancements in the UAE’s Riayati platform, part of the National Unified Medical Record initiative. Dr. Mohammed Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Health and Prevention, noted that this integration will enhance health research, streamline strategic planning, and optimise resource allocation.
He added, “Including more groups under insurance coverage expands our national health database, supporting disease prevention and emergency preparedness.”
A win-win for Employers and Workers
The competitive cost of the policy reduces employers’ overall financial burden compared to footing the bill for uninsured workers’ medical treatment. Simultaneously, workers benefit from reliable access to medical care, enhancing workplace health and productivity.
With a network comprising seven hospitals, 46 clinics, and 45 pharmacies, insured workers will have wide-reaching access to healthcare facilities under the scheme.