Ask Gulf News: How do I subscribe to ILOE? UAE’s Mandatory Unemployment Scheme
How unemployment insurance covers up to 60% of your basic salary for eligible workers
Dubai: Losing a job unexpectedly can be stressful, especially in a fast-paced economy like the UAE. To protect employees, the government introduced the Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) scheme, a mandatory unemployment insurance programme for both Emiratis and expatriates working in the private sector and federal government.
By paying a small monthly premium, workers gain access to financial support if they lose their jobs involuntarily, helping them cover essential expenses while searching for new employment.
How the ILOE Scheme Helps
Under Federal Decree Law No. 13 of 2022, eligible employees can receive up to 60 per cent of their average basic salary over the previous six months. Benefits are capped at three consecutive months per claim, and workers must have paid premiums for at least 12 consecutive months to qualify.
Introduced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) in 2022 and implemented in 2023, the ILOE scheme is administered by the Insurance Pool, managed by Dubai Insurance, which handles both subscriptions and claims.
The scheme is intended to provide a financial cushion during periods of unemployment, helping employees cover essential living expenses while seeking new work.
ILOE insurance premiums and compensation
The scheme has two categories based on basic salary:
Category A (Dh16,000 or below)
Premium: Dh5 + VAT per month
Compensation: Up to Dh10,000 per month for up to three months per claim
Category B (Above Dh16,000)
Premium: Dh10 + VAT per month
Compensation: Up to Dh20,000 per month for up to three months per claim
How to apply for ILOE
Employees can subscribe to the ILOE scheme online via the official website www.iloe.ae or through the ILOE mobile app at no additional cost.
Alternative subscription options include:
Exchange Centres: Al Ansari Exchange branches across the UAE (cash accepted)
MOHRE Business Centres: Registration via Tasheel and Tawjeeh centres
SMS for E& Customers: Send your Emirates ID to 2120 (e.g., ID 784XXXXXXXXXXXX to 2120)
Payment Kiosks: Upay and MBME Pay machines in supermarkets and malls
For UAE residents working in the private sector or federal government, the ILOE scheme provides a low-cost, insurance-style safety net. It ensures financial support during involuntary job loss, giving employees peace of mind and time to secure new employment.
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