In a landmark development, the UAE has introduced a basic health insurance program that promises comprehensive coverage for private sector employees and domestic workers in the Northern Emirates, with annual premiums starting at a modest Dh320. This initiative, effective from January 1, 2025, marks a significant step towards universal health coverage within the country.
Extensive Coverage for a Diverse Workforce
Designed to accommodate the healthcare needs of a diverse workforce, the new insurance plan extends its benefits to individuals from the age of 1 up to 64 years. Notably, the policy eliminates any waiting period for pre-existing or chronic conditions, ensuring immediate support for those in need. For individuals over the age of 64, a medical disclosure and recent health reports are required to qualify for coverage.
The insurance program will be implemented across Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, aligning these Emirates with the mandatory insurance systems already in place in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This expansion guarantees that every private sector worker in the UAE will have health insurance coverage.
Financial Terms and Accessibility
Under the new scheme, inpatient care will incur a 20% co-payment, with the insured's out-of-pocket expenses capped at Dh500 per visit and an annual maximum of Dh1,000, which includes medication costs. For outpatient services, a 25% co-payment applies, with a maximum of Dh100 per visit. Follow-up visits for the same condition within a week are exempt from additional co-payments, and medication co-payments are capped at 30%, not to exceed Dh1,500 annually.
The network for this basic plan includes seven hospitals, 46 clinics and medical centers, and 45 pharmacies, ensuring accessible healthcare facilities for all insured members. Moreover, dependents of the workers are also eligible for the same benefits and pricing structure as the primary insured, underlining the inclusive nature of this policy.
Procurement and Policy Details
Employers will be able to secure this insurance through the DubaiCare Network or via other accredited insurance providers through the Insurance Pool website, its smart application, or business service centers nationwide.
Khalil Al Khoori, the Undersecretary of Labour Market and Emiratisation Operations at the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), emphasized the government's dedication to the welfare of its workforce. "The health insurance scheme is a reflection of the UAE’s pledge to enhance the labor market's protection system, aiming to provide a decent life and access to high-quality healthcare services for all private sector employees and domestic workers," he stated.
This initiative not only aims to safeguard the health and well-being of the UAE’s workforce but also reflects the country's progressive approach to labor rights and healthcare accessibility.
