UAE Insurance Guides: Health, Motor & ILOE Unemployment Insurance
Insurance in the UAE is mandatory in key areas: health cover for residents, third-party motor insurance for drivers, and ILOE for employees.
Health insurance is mandatory across the UAE — Abu Dhabi and Dubai run their own schemes, and the five northern emirates are covered by the federal Basic Health Insurance Scheme since 1 January 2025 — with employers generally providing cover for employees and sponsors arranging cover for dependants. Motor insurance is mandatory for every registered vehicle — third-party cover is the legal minimum, with comprehensive cover optional. The ILOE scheme insures most employees against involuntary job loss for a small monthly premium. Our guides explain what each policy must cover, how to compare providers, how to claim, and what to do when a claim is rejected.
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Health insurance is mandatory in the UAE. From 1 January 2025, the federal Basic Health Insurance Scheme covers private-sector employees and domestic workers in Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain. Employers must buy it before a residency permit can be issued or renewed (MOHRE). The Basic Scheme costs AED 320/year. Dubai has its own Essential Benefits Plan (EBP). Abu Dhabi has its own scheme. Check their current terms with DHA / DOH.
6 steps · Varies — confirm with employer/insurer; Basic Scheme tied to residency permit issuance/renewal · Federal Basic Scheme: AED 320/year; other plans vary — confirm with insurer2026-Latest
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions and essential rules for insurance in United Arab Emirates.
Is health insurance mandatory in the UAE?
Yes. Health insurance is mandatory across the UAE. Abu Dhabi and Dubai run their own schemes. In the five northern emirates, the federal Basic Health Insurance Scheme applies since 1 January 2025, with employers required to cover private-sector employees and domestic workers. Sponsors generally arrange cover for dependants; minimum benefit levels are set by the health authority.
What motor insurance do I need in the UAE?
Third-party liability insurance is the legal minimum for every registered vehicle. Comprehensive cover adds protection for your own vehicle against accidents, theft, and fire. Compare excess, agency vs non-agency repair, and roadside assistance.
What is ILOE and how much does it cost?
ILOE (Involuntary Loss of Employment) insurance pays a limited monthly benefit if you lose your job. Premiums depend on your salary band. Most private and federal sector employees must subscribe. Enrol early to avoid fines.
How do I claim on UAE insurance?
Notify your insurer as soon as possible, gather the required documents (police report for motor claims, medical reports for health claims), and submit through the insurer's app or portal. Keep copies of everything and note claim reference numbers.
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