The UAE has announced a basic health insurance package targeting private sector employees and domestic workers who lack existing coverage as part of the Health Insurance Scheme approved by the UAE Cabinet. The initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), will be implemented nationwide from January 1, 2025, in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, the Ministry of Health and Prevention, and several insurance providers.
The system, already mandatory in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, will extend to Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah, ensuring universal insurance coverage for workers in the UAE. Employers will be required to purchase health insurance as a prerequisite for issuing or renewing residency permits. However, employees with work permits issued before January 1, 2024, will only fall under the mandate when their residency permits are renewed.
Competitive pricing and coverage
The insurance package, priced at Dh320 annually, offers low-cost coverage with nominal treatment expenses for employers. The policy is valid for two years, with the second-year premium refundable if the visa is cancelled. It covers individuals aged 1 to 64, while those older must submit a medical disclosure form. Chronic illnesses are covered without a waiting period.
Inpatient care requires a 20% co-payment, capped at Dh500 per visit with an annual ceiling of Dh1,000, beyond which the insurer covers 100% of costs. Outpatient care involves a 25% co-payment, limited to Dh100 per visit, with follow-up visits for the same condition within seven days exempt from additional fees. Co-payments for medications are capped at 30%, with an annual limit of Dh1,500.
The DubaiCare Network, which administers the package, includes seven hospitals, 46 clinics, and 45 pharmacies. Workers’ dependents can access similar benefits under the same policy. Employers can purchase the insurance through the DubaiCare Network or other accredited providers via various channels, including the Insurance Pool website, smart applications and business service centres.
“The initiative represents another major milestone in the series of accomplishments seen across the UAE labour market,” said HE Khalil Al Khoori, Undersecretary of Labour Market and Emiratisation Operations at MoHRE. “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 Savings Scheme.”
The policy is expected to reduce medical treatment costs for employers and uninsured sick leave expenses while bolstering the UAE’s labour market competitiveness. It will also address healthcare accessibility and affordability issues, aligning with the UAE’s long-term goals of enhancing the quality of life and economic productivity.
“The system reflects our commitment to enhancing quality and developing a sustainable and inclusive healthcare system,” said HE Dr Mohammed Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Health and Prevention. “It expands insurance coverage to include groups previously not covered, providing them with access to high-quality health services.”
Dr Al Olama highlighted that the initiative enhances the UAE’s “Riayati” platform, a digital healthcare system forming part of the National Unified Medical Record (NUMR). By incorporating additional groups into the database, the scheme improves the accuracy of national health data, supports strategic planning and optimises resource allocation.
Implementation and compliance
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security will oversee the integration of the insurance requirement into residency issuance and renewal processes. “This essential step aligns with the wise leadership’s vision to enhance the community’s quality of life, uphold human rights, and ensure healthcare access for all,” said HE Major General Saeed Salem Balhas Al Shamsi, Acting Director-General of the Authority.
