The UAE has taken a major step to protect employees’ well-being with the introduction of UAE’s worker health insurance. Starting January 2025, all private-sector and domestic workers across the Northern Emirates — Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah — must have basic medical coverage provided by their employers.
Who Provides the Insurance
Employers are legally required to purchase and maintain this coverage. The insurance must be active when applying for or renewing residency permits. The policy is available through the DubaiCare Network by Dubai Insurance.
Who Is Exempt
This new rule applies only to workers in the Northern Emirates. Abu Dhabi and Dubai already have mandatory health insurance systems, so the new scheme doesn’t change coverage in those emirates.
Family Coverage
Workers can extend their insurance to include dependents like spouses and children. To apply, the sponsor must provide Emirates IDs, passports, and proof of active worker insurance. Dependents above 64 may need additional medical documents or reports.
What’s Covered
The UAE’s worker health insurance offers wide-ranging benefits designed to make healthcare affordable and accessible:
- Inpatient care: 20% co-payment capped at Dh500 per visit and Dh1,000 per year. The insurer covers the rest.
- Outpatient care: 25% co-payment, capped at Dh100 per visit. Follow-ups within seven days are free.
- Chronic conditions: Coverage begins immediately with no waiting period.
- Medicines: Covered up to Dh1,500 annually, with a 30% co-payment.
- Physiotherapy: Up to six sessions covered (requires prior approval).
- Laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures: 25% co-payment.
- Telehealth: Included for convenient remote consultations.
Exclusions
Some treatments are not part of the basic plan. These include:
- Maternity care
- Dental and vision treatment
- Cosmetic or obesity-related procedures
- Mental health treatment (except in emergencies)
- Smoking cessation programs
Why This Policy Matters
This initiative improves healthcare access for thousands of low-income workers and helps prevent untreated conditions. It aligns with the UAE’s broader goal of ensuring quality healthcare for all residents. By offering standardized coverage, it also reduces the financial strain of medical costs for both workers and employers.
How to Get Coverage
Employers must register their workers on the DubaiCare platform. Once approved, employees receive an insurance card or digital ID, which grants access to registered hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Workers can also track coverage and claims online.
This reform makes healthcare more reliable, affordable, and consistent for every employee — a major milestone in worker welfare.
Need help understanding health insurance rules or applying for worker coverage? Contact AR Associates for expert guidance and smooth documentation support.
