UAE announces new basic health insurance for private sector employees, domestic workers from January 1
Who is eligible, how can you apply, what is the cost and the coverage?
Dubai: A new basic health insurance scheme for private sector employees and domestic workers was announced today, covering the UAE's entire workforce across the emirates.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) said that the scheme will come into effect from January 1, 2025.
While mandatory health insurance has already been implemented in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the new scheme will extend coverage to private sector workers in Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, ensuring that 100 per cent of the UAE's workforce is covered by insurance.
Who is eligible?
The new health insurance policy is a prerequisite for issuing or renewing residency permits for its employees.
However, the mandate does not apply to employees with work permits issued before January 1, 2024 that remain valid, and will only become mandatory when their residency permits are due for renewal.
How can you get it?
The newly introduced insurance package is available through the DubaiCare Network. Employers can either purchase the new insurance package via the DubaiCare Network, or any other product from accredited insurance companies through various channels, including the Insurance Pool website and smart application, as well as business service centres across the country.
What is the policy cost and coverage?
MOHRE said the package will be provided at a competitive price with nominal treatment costs.
The policy is valid for two years, and the second-year premium can be refunded if the visa is cancelled. The basic insurance package costs Dh320 per year, with no waiting period for workers suffering from chronic illnesses. It covers individuals aged one to 64 years, while those over this age must complete a medical disclosure form and attach recent medical reports.
The package covers treatment expenses with a 20 per cent co-payment for inpatient care (i.e. patients hospitalised for medical treatment or surgeries). The insured pays a maximum of Dh500 per visit with an annual cap of Dh1,000, including medications. Beyond these limits, the insurance company covers 100 per cent of treatment costs.
With regard to outpatient care (patients requiring medical visits, diagnostic tests, or minor procedures that do not necessitate a hospital stay), the co-payment is 25 per cent, where the insured pays a maximum of Dh100 per visit. No co-payment is required for follow-up visits for the same condition within seven days, while co-payments for medications are capped at 30 per cent, with an annual cap of Dh1,500.
The network includes seven hospitals, 46 clinics and medical centres and 45 pharmacies.
What about dependents?
Dependents from the worker’s family can access the same benefits and pricing, as specified in the insurance policy.
The initiative has been launched in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) based on a Cabinet decision.
What is the aim of the new policy?
The initiative has been launched in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) based on a Cabinet decision.
According to Khalil Al Khoori, Undersecretary of Labour Market and Emiratisation Operations at MoHRE, “The Health Insurance Scheme reflects the UAE’s commitment to extending the comprehensive protection system to all workers across the labour market, ensuring a decent life for all by providing access to high-quality healthcare services for private sector employees and domestic workers.”
He said, “It forms part of a comprehensive vision to expand the integrated social protection umbrella, which includes the Worker Protection Programme, Unemployment Insurance Scheme, and the voluntary alternative end-of-service benefits system known as the ‘Savings Scheme’. These efforts reinforce the commitment to providing a secure, healthy work environment and improving quality of life for all workers.”
“The new Health Insurance Scheme will also have a notable positive impact on the competitiveness of the country’s labour market, improving performance on key indicators related to quality of life, protection of rights, and social and healthcare security. It is also expected to benefit workers and employers by reducing the financial costs associated with medical treatment and unpaid sick leave uninsured workers typically need to take.”
Is health insurance a must for residency in all emirates now?
Major General Saeed Salem Balhas Al Shamsi, Acting Director-General of ICP, said the ICP will be establishing an electronic link with various ministries, government entities and private sector institutions – particularly in the insurance industry. It will verify that workers in the private and business sectors, as well as domestic workers, are covered by insurance before issuing residencies. The idea is to protect workers’ rights and ensure they get access to healthcare. “This is one of their basic rights, mandated by laws regulating the UAE labour market,” said Major General Al Shamsi.
The approval of the health insurance system reflects the UAE’s humanitarian commitment, reaffirming its dedication to upholding international human rights conventions and providing healthcare to all residents, he added.
How will UAE’s healthcare system be impacted?
Dr. Mohammed Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Health and Prevention, said, “The initiative enhances the outcomes of the ‘Riayati’ platform, the integrated digital healthcare system that forms part of the National Unified Medical Record (NUMR) and Population Health Management projects. Including these groups under insurance coverage serves to expand our national health database, making it more comprehensive and accurate, thereby enhancing our capabilities for health research, strategic planning and more efficient resource allocation. These efforts contribute towards the integrated development of the healthcare sector, boosting its competitiveness and alignment with the UAE’s goals and priorities.”