No Health Insurance from Your Employer? Know What UAE Law Says

🛡️ Health insurance is not a privilege in the UAE — it’s a legal right. But what happens when your employer doesn’t provide it? Here’s everything you need to know.

🏥Is Health Insurance Mandatory in the UAE?

Yes! In the UAE, employers are legally required to provide health insurance for expat workers.

👉 This rule isn’t new for Dubai and Abu Dhabi — but since January 2025, it now applies across all Northern Emirates too:

1. Sharjah
2. Ajman
3. Umm Al Quwain
4. Ras Al Khaimah
5. Fujairah

⚖️ What Does the Law Say About Employer Duties?

Here’s what employers are legally bound to do –-

✅ Provide a valid medical insurance plan
✅ Pay for the full cost of the insurance
✅ Keep the insurance active during your entire job contract

🚨 What If Your Employer Ignores the Law?

Some workers still report being left uninsured. That’s a serious violation and it can affect your ability to visit doctors or get emergency care.

📝 A reader shared:

"I’ve been working for a year, but still no insurance. I can’t afford a clinic visit. Can I file a complaint?"

Yes, absolutely. And here’s how ⬇️

📝 How Can You File a Complaint Against Your Employer?

If your employer hasn’t insured you, you have the right to report it. Here’s what you can do — 

✅ Step-by-Step Guide

1. Try Talking First
   Sometimes it’s just a delay or oversight. Speak to HR or your manager.
2. If No Action, File a Complaint
   💻 Online:
   Go to mohre.gov.ae
   📱 App:
   Download the MOHRE app and submit your issue
   ☎️ Call:
   MOHRE Labour Claims Centre: 80084

⏱️ What Happens After You File a Complaint?

Once you submit the issue:

📅 Within 14 Days

• MOHRE tries to settle the dispute amicably

⚖️ If no agreement

• The case is sent to court
• MOHRE prepares a summary & recommendation

💸 What Penalties Do Employers Face?

If companies break the law, here’s what happens:

🔻 Fines

• AED 500 to AED 150,000
• Repeat offences = up to AED 500,000

📍 DHA (Dubai Health Authority) can

• Send official warnings
• Suspend business licences
• Cancel insurance permits
• Inform immigration for further action

🤔 Can DHA Help Too?

Yes! Especially in Dubai:

📲 DHA can take action if your employer doesn’t provide insurance.

📍 Also involved:

• Department of Health Abu Dhabi (DoH) for Abu Dhabi
• Local health authorities in Northern Emirates

📌 Quick Checklist: What Should You Do?

🔲 Confirm if your insurance is active
🔲 Talk to your employer
🔲 File a complaint with MOHRE if needed
🔲 Keep a record of all documents and emails
🔲 Monitor MOHRE or court updates

📚 FAQs: You Asked, We Answered!

Can my employer deduct insurance from my salary?

❌ No, employers must pay 100% of the insurance cost.

Can I get fined if I don’t have health insurance?

⚠️ No, the employer is fined, not the employee.

Is it only for expats or locals too?

This rule mainly applies to expat workers.

What if my contract is short-term?

The law still applies — all employees must be insured.

What happens if I change jobs?

Your new employer must provide coverage from Day 1.

Can I buy my insurance?

Yes, but it’s your employer’s duty too. 

🔚 Final Word

Health insurance is not optional in the UAE — it’s your right. If your employer fails to deliver, don’t stay silent. Use the tools and legal support available to protect your health and future.

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