The United Arab Emirates is set to revolutionize healthcare access for private-sector and domestic workers across the nation with a new mandatory health insurance scheme starting January 1, 2025. This initiative will expand the coverage currently in place in Abu Dhabi and Dubai to all other emirates, including Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.
A Milestone in Nationwide Coverage
The program, introduced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), aims to provide uniform health insurance standards across the UAE, addressing a long-standing gap in the Northern Emirates where employer-provided health insurance was optional. This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to ensuring a decent quality of life for all workers by making high-quality healthcare accessible and affordable.
Khalil Al Khoori, the undersecretary of labour market and Emiratisation operations at MoHRE, highlighted the broader implications of the scheme. “This initiative strengthens the UAE’s labour market competitiveness, enhances workers’ quality of life, and reduces financial burdens associated with uninsured medical treatments,” he stated.
Key Features of the Insurance Scheme
Under the new plan, employers must secure health insurance as a prerequisite for issuing or renewing residency permits. However, the mandate does not apply to existing work permits until they are up for renewal.
The basic insurance package, available through the DubaiCare Network, is priced at just AED 320 per year. It includes:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Medical treatments with 20% co-payment for inpatient care, capped at AED 500 per visit, and AED 1,000 annually. Outpatient care requires a 25% co-payment, capped at AED 100 per visit.
- Medication Support: Co-payments for prescriptions are capped at 30%, with an annual limit of AED 1,500.
- Inclusive Benefits: Dependents can be included under the same plan at identical costs.
- No Waiting Period: Coverage begins immediately for workers with chronic illnesses.
A Broad Healthcare Network
The basic plan connects workers to an extensive healthcare network comprising seven hospitals, 46 clinics and medical centres, and 45 pharmacies. This ensures that workers across all emirates have easy access to medical services.
How It Benefits Employers and Workers
The scheme promises significant advantages for both employers and employees:
- For Workers: Access to affordable healthcare ensures better well-being and reduced financial strain during illnesses.
- For Employers: A healthier workforce, lower absenteeism due to untreated medical conditions, and reduced financial risk from uninsured sick leave.
Looking Ahead
By 2025, employers can choose between the DubaiCare Network or other accredited providers to purchase insurance packages through various channels, including the Insurance Pool website, smart applications, or business service centres.
This nationwide health insurance initiative represents a significant stride toward universal health coverage in the UAE. It underscores the nation’s dedication to safeguarding the welfare of all workers while reinforcing its global reputation as a leader in labour rights and healthcare accessibility.
With this program, the UAE not only addresses a critical need but also sets a benchmark for inclusive and forward-thinking policies in the region.
