Starting January 1, 2025, employers in the Northern Emirates must buy new health insurance policies to issue or renew visas, as announced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). This applies to employers in Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, making the policy mandatory for issuing or renewing residency permits.
However, employees with valid work permits issued before January 1, 2024, are exempt from this requirement until their residency permits come up for renewal.
A Step Towards Improved Worker Protection
Khalil Al Khoori, undersecretary for labour market and Emiratisation operations at MoHRE, described this initiative as a major milestone for the UAE’s labour market.
He highlighted that it is part of a broader plan to strengthen social protection, including programs like the Worker Protection Programme, Unemployment Insurance Scheme, and the Savings Scheme. These efforts aim to create a secure and healthy work environment while improving workers’ quality of life.
Affordable Coverage for Workers
The new basic health insurance plan starts at just Dh320 per year, making it more affordable compared to plans in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
According to Al Khoori, the scheme will positively impact the UAE labour market by enhancing quality of life, safeguarding workers’ rights, and reducing financial burdens related to medical treatment and unpaid sick leave.
Ensuring Healthcare Access for All
Major General Saeed Salem Balhas Al Shamsi, acting director-general of Identity and Foreigners Affairs at the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, emphasized that this health insurance scheme is essential to completing the UAE’s healthcare framework. It ensures healthcare access for all private sector employees and domestic workers, aligning with the country’s vision to uphold human rights and improve quality of life.
He added that the Federal Authority has collaborated with key partners to implement this plan effectively. By verifying insurance coverage before issuing residencies, the initiative protects workers’ rights and guarantees healthcare access, which is a basic legal requirement.
Boosting Healthcare and Productivity
Dr Mohammed Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Health and Prevention, stated that the scheme will not only enhance healthcare services for all groups but also strengthen early disease detection, improve health emergency preparedness, and support chronic disease prevention.
It will also contribute to sustainable development, boost productivity, and position the UAE as a global leader in labour market competitiveness.
