New UAE Health Insurance Requirement for Employers Starting January 2025

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) in the UAE has introduced a new health insurance policy that will become mandatory for employers as part of the residency permit issuance and renewal process starting January 1, 2025. This policy aims to enhance healthcare coverage for workers across the UAE, ensuring access to essential medical services.

Who Does the New Rule Apply To?

The new health insurance requirement applies to:

1. Employers issuing new residency permits for their employees after January 1, 2025.

2. Employers renewing residency permits for their workers post-January 1, 2025.

For employees with valid work permits issued before this date, the new rule will only apply when their residency permits are due for renewal.

What Employers Need to Do

Employers must purchase the approved health insurance policy for their employees before applying for new residency permits or renewing existing ones. This step will now be a mandatory prerequisite for processing residency permits.

How to Obtain the New Insurance

From January 1, 2025, employers can explore and purchase the insurance packages through:

• The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) website.

• The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) website.

• The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) website.

These platforms will provide information about the various health insurance packages available to suit different requirements and budgets.

Why This Policy Is Important

This initiative is part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the welfare and healthcare standards for workers in the country. By mandating health insurance, the government aims to ensure that all employees, regardless of their job or income level, have access to adequate medical care.

Key Takeaways for Employers

• The policy is mandatory for all new residency permits and renewals starting January 1, 2025.

• Employers should plan ahead to comply with the regulation to avoid delays in residency permit processing.

• Employers are encouraged to visit the official government websites for detailed information and to choose the best insurance plans for their workforce.

For more information about the new health insurance policy, visit the official websites of MOHRE, ICP, and MOHAP.

This proactive step by the UAE government underscores its commitment to the well-being of the workforce, ensuring a healthier and more productive environment for all.