UAE: Health insurance scheme becomes mandatory into effect
New scheme provides coverage for private sector employees and domestic workers across all Emirates
UAE Launches Mandatory Health Insurance for Workers
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has implemented a new basic health insurance scheme for private sector employees and domestic workers, effective from Wednesday, January 1.
The scheme, which was already implemented in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, is being expanded to the cities of Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.
On December 16, the Ministry of Human Resources and Immigration (MoHRE), in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), announced the scheme based on a cabinet decision.
Information about the new health insurance program
Coverage: The program is intended to insure uninsured domestic workers and employees of the private sector.
Eligibility: In order to grant or renew residency permits, employers must obtain insurance. Workers whose work permits were issued prior to January 1, 2024, will not be affected by this decision unless their residency permits are renewed.
Cost of insurance: The new health insurance plan has no waiting time for chronic illnesses and costs AED 320 per year.
Age of coverage: People between the ages of 1 and 64 are eligible for the insurance, and they must provide current medical records and a medical disclosure form.
Plan coverage
For inpatient care: This package covers treatment costs with a 20 percent co-payment for inpatients, with a maximum visit fee of AED 500 and an annual amount of AED 1,000, including medicines.
For outpatient care – it covers medical visits, diagnostic tests, minor procedures and minor procedures with a 25 percent co-payment, follow-up visits and a 30 percent co-payment for medicines, with an annual limit of AED 1,500.
Network: The health insurance network consists of seven hospitals, 46 clinics, medical centers and 45 pharmacies, which also provide the same benefits and prices to the worker’s family members.
Refund: The plan is valid for two years and a refund is available if a worker’s visa is cancelled.
How to get it: Employers are mandated to purchase insurance packages through the DubaiCare network or accredited insurance companies.
The process must be implemented through various channels such as the Insurance Pool website, smart applications and business service centers across the country.
