Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The UAE has rolled out a nationwide low-cost health insurance program for private sector workers and domestic staff, making affordable healthcare accessible to all employees across the country. This initiative, which became mandatory on January 1, extends healthcare coverage to employees in all emirates, including Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. Previously, mandatory health insurance was limited to Abu Dhabi and Dubai. According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), this comprehensive scheme ensures that all employers provide their workers with adequate insurance coverage as part of residency visa requirements. Policies begin at an annual cost of Dh320, offering a budget-friendly solution for healthcare needs. The insurance plan includes coverage for chronic illnesses, outpatient and inpatient care, and prescribed medications. Co-payment options have been structured to ensure affordability, with a 20 percent cap on costs for inpatient services and a 25 percent cap for outpatient visits. The scheme covers individuals aged 1 to 64, while those over 64 are required to complete a medical disclosure form. Dependents of insured workers can also benefit from similar packages, enabling families to receive necessary medical attention. Employers are obligated to secure health coverage for their workers before authorities can issue or renew residency visas. Failure to comply may result in penalties, as seen in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, where fines range from Dh300 to Dh500 per month per uninsured employee. The insurance program allows workers to access services at seven hospitals, 46 clinics, and 45 pharmacies across the UAE. Packages are available through platforms like DubaiCare Network, making enrollment simple and efficient. ICA/Expat Media
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