The United Arab Emirates has taken a significant step towards ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage for all private sector employees and domestic workers with the introduction of a new basic health insurance scheme. This initiative, effective from January 1, 2025, aims to cover 100% of private sector workers in the Northern Emirates, including Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. This move aligns with existing mandates in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, thereby unifying healthcare coverage across the nation.
Failing to comply with the regulation may result in fines or penalties, similar to the enforcement framework already seen in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Companies should anticipate proactive enforcement measures, including inspections and audits by relevant authorities.
Key Features of the Health Insurance Scheme
Coverage and Eligibility
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- The insurance package is available to individuals aged 1 to 64. For those over 64, a medical disclosure form and recent medical reports are required.
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- The scheme is designed to eliminate waiting periods for workers suffering from chronic illnesses, ensuring immediate access to necessary healthcare services.
Financial Structure
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- The annual premium starts as low as Dh320.
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- Inpatient care involves a 20% co-payment up to a maximum of Dh500 per visit, with an annual cap of Dh1,000. Beyond these limits, the insurance covers 100% of treatment costs.
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- Outpatient care requires a 25% co-payment per visit, capped at Dh100. Follow-up visits within seven days for the same condition incur no additional charges. Medication co-payments are capped at 30%, with an annual limit of Dh1,500.
Healthcare Network
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- The basic plan includes access to seven hospitals, 46 clinics and medical centres, and 45 pharmacies across the Northern Emirates.
Dependents’ Benefits
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- Family members of workers can avail themselves of the same benefits and pricing outlined in the policy.
Implementation and Accessibility
Employers can purchase this new insurance package through various channels, such as the DubaiCare Network or other accredited insurance providers via the Insurance Pool website, smart applications, and business service centres nationwide. This accessibility underscores the UAE’s commitment to providing high-quality healthcare services to all private sector employees and domestic workers.
Legal Implications
The introduction of this scheme reflects a robust legal framework aimed at safeguarding workers’ rights to healthcare. By mandating comprehensive health coverage, the UAE reinforces its dedication to enhancing the quality of life for its workforce. Employers must comply with this new regulation by securing appropriate insurance coverage for their employees to avoid potential legal repercussions.
Khalil Al Khoori, undersecretary of the labour market and Emiratisation operations at Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE), emphasized that this initiative is part of the UAE’s broader strategy to ensure a decent life for all workers through access to high-quality healthcare services. This policy not only benefits employees but also strengthens the overall labor market by promoting health security and stability.
In conclusion, this new health insurance scheme is a testament to the UAE’s progressive approach in labour market reforms and worker welfare. It sets a precedent for comprehensive worker protection policies that other regions might look to emulate.
