The enactment of Dubai's health insurance law, known as Law No. 11 of 2013, marked a significant milestone on January 1, 2014, mandating the adoption of medical insurance across the emirate. Under this legislation, both Emiratis and expatriates residing in Dubai, alongside their dependents, are obligated to possess health insurance coverage. The initiative stemmed from the ISAHD (Insurance System for Advancing Healthcare in Dubai) program led by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Since its implementation, this health insurance mandate has notably curtailed healthcare expenses related to routine medical check-ups, chronic disease management, emergency treatments, and various other medical services.
Consequences of Non-Compliance with Health Insurance Requirements in Dubai
In Dubai, adherence to health insurance requirements is compulsory for all residents, regardless of nationality. Dubai and Abu Dhabi stand as the only two emirates in the UAE with mandatory health insurance regulations. Failure to comply with these mandates may result in penalties imposed on individuals, employers, sponsors, or healthcare providers. Violators may face monthly fines ranging from AED 500 to AED 150,000, underscoring the seriousness of adhering to the directives outlined by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).
Employer Responsibilities and Employee Benefits
Dubai's medical insurance legislation places the onus on employers to furnish healthcare coverage for their workforce. The mandated basic health plan should feature an annual premium ranging from Dh 500 to Dh 700, offering a maximum coverage of Dh 150,000 per person annually. Importantly, the cost of insurance must be borne by the employer and cannot be deducted from employees' salaries. This regulation extends across all regions of the emirate, encompassing free-trade zones as well.
Provisions for Employee Dependents
While employers are tasked with providing health insurance for their employees, the responsibility does not extend to the dependents of employees. In cases where family members lack coverage through an employer, employees may opt for separate policies to safeguard their dependents' health. The cost of such coverage typically falls within the range of Dh 600 to Dh 6000.
Post-Implementation Obligations for Employers
In accordance with Dubai's mandatory health insurance law, employers must furnish a minimum level of health benefits to their employees, covering a spectrum of healthcare services including inpatient and outpatient treatments, emergency care, surgeries, medical tests, medications, and maternity services. Additionally, Dubai nationals may be entitled to additional preventive and therapeutic healthcare services. The basic health coverage plan, featuring an annual premium between Dh 500 to Dh 700 and a maximum coverage of Dh 150,000 per annum, must not be deducted from employees' salaries. Moreover, the renewal of employee visas hinges upon employers fulfilling health insurance coverage requirements, underscoring the imperative for universal compliance with the health insurance law.
Inclusions in Health Insurance Plans
All employees, regardless of nationality, are entitled to a minimum coverage encompassing general practitioner visits, emergency treatments, specialist referrals, as well as surgical, investigative, and maternity procedures. Enhanced insurance products may offer additional benefits such as dental care, optical services, broader network coverage, and higher annual maximums.
