All private sector employees and domestic workers in the UAE must now have basic health insurance. This new mandate applies to workers in Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, ensuring essential healthcare coverage for all employees.
Key Details of the New Health Insurance Policy
Who is Responsible for Providing Insurance?
Employers are required to purchase health insurance policies for their workers. This is necessary for issuing or renewing residency permits through the DubaiCare Network or other approved providers. Workers with valid permits issued before the policy’s implementation must be insured upon permit renewal.
Who is Excluded?
The policy applies specifically to workers in the Northern Emirates, excluding employees in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, where health insurance mandates already exist.
Benefits of Basic Health Insurance
- Pre-Existing Conditions
Coverage includes chronic diseases without a waiting period. - Inpatient Care
- 20% co-payment capped at Dh500 per visit and Dh1,000 annually.
- Costs above these limits are fully covered by the insurer.
- Outpatient Care
- 25% co-payment, up to Dh100 per visit.
- No co-payment for follow-ups within seven days for the same illness.
- Medicines and Treatments
- Inpatient tests and surgeries covered, with 20% co-insurance, capped annually.
- Outpatient tests and diagnoses covered, with 25% co-insurance per visit.
- Physiotherapy
- Up to six sessions covered (with prior approval).
- Drugs and Medications
- Covered up to Dh1,500 with 30% co-insurance.
- Telehealth Services
- Included in the basic plan.
Exclusions from the Policy
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Dental care
- Hearing and vision aids
- Smoking cessation programs
- Cosmetic procedures
- Weight control treatments
- Mental health services (except emergencies)
Coverage for Family Members
Workers can extend coverage to dependent family members with the same benefits. For dependents aged over 64, additional medical reports are required. Both the insured and the sponsor must provide relevant documents, including passports and Emirates IDs.
This policy ensures accessible and affordable healthcare for employees while outlining clear benefits and exclusions to promote health security across the UAE.