The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has introduced a cost-effective health insurance scheme designed for private sector employees and domestic workers, marking a significant step towards comprehensive healthcare coverage. Priced at AED 320 ($87) annually, the initiative aims to make quality medical care accessible while easing financial burdens on employers and improving workers’ well-being.
The newly announced health insurance package, which takes effect on January 1, 2025, applies to workers in Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Qaiwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah—regions previously not under mandatory insurance frameworks. This expansion complements existing mandatory systems in Abu Dhabi and Dubai and ensures 100% insurance coverage for workers across the UAE.
Details of the Health Insurance Scheme
The insurance, launched in coordination with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security and the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), provides a competitively priced policy to workers aged 1 to 64 years. For workers over 64, medical reports are required. The policy is valid for two years, with a refund option on the second year if a visa is cancelled.
Key benefits include:
- Inpatient care: A 20% co-payment capped at AED 500 ($136) per visit, with an annual maximum of AED 1,000 ($272). Beyond these limits, insurers cover 100% of costs.
- Outpatient care: A 25% co-payment per visit, capped at AED 100 ($27). Follow-up visits within seven days are exempt from co-payment.
- Medications: Co-payment capped at 30%, with an annual maximum of AED 1,500 ($408).
The DubaiCare Network will provide access to seven hospitals, 46 clinics, and 45 pharmacies, ensuring widespread coverage. Dependents of workers can also avail the same benefits.
Employers must purchase this insurance as a requirement for issuing or renewing residency permits. However, it does not apply to work permits issued before January 1, 2024, until their renewal.
Voices from UAE Leaders
Khalil Al Khoori, Undersecretary of Labour Market Operations at MoHRE, emphasised the initiative’s significance:
“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 further highlighted its role in reducing employers’ medical costs and enhancing the UAE’s labour market competitiveness.
Major General Saeed Salem Balhas Al Shamsi, Acting Director-General at the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, praised the scheme’s alignment with national objectives:
“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. It is set to boost productivity and support sustainable development while advancing the UAE’s leadership and global competitiveness.”
Dr. Mohammed Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary at MoHAP, stated:
“The system reflects our commitment at the Ministry of Health and Prevention to enhancing quality and developing a sustainable and inclusive healthcare system. Including these groups under insurance coverage serves to expand our national health database, making it more comprehensive and accurate.”
He added that the initiative enhances healthcare sustainability, expands disease prevention efforts, and strengthens the UAE’s health ecosystem.
Ease of Access and Employer Benefits
Employers can purchase the policy through the DubaiCare Network or any accredited insurance company. Platforms like the Insurance Pool website, mobile applications, and service centres will simplify policy purchases.
The scheme not only ensures medical access for uninsured workers but also reduces operational costs for businesses by offering affordable alternatives to high treatment expenses.
Conclusion
The UAE’s Health Insurance Scheme marks a transformative effort to guarantee healthcare access for all workers, fostering a robust, healthy, and productive workforce while enhancing economic competitiveness.
