How long do you have Health Insurance after leaving a job in UAE?

Health insurance is more than just a financial safety net — it’s a necessity, especially in a world where medical costs are constantly rising. The UAE has made it mandatory for all residents to have this type of insurance. Employers are required to provide health coverage to their employees — in Abu Dhabi, this extends to their dependents as well. 

Most residents rely on these employer-sponsored plans for coverage, but what happens when you leave your job? Does your medical insurance continue or does it end immediately? If it does continue, how long does it stay active? And if it doesn’t, how much time do you have to arrange new coverage? 

In this blog, we will explore what happens to your health insurance after leaving a job in the UAE and what options you have to stay protected.

When Does My Health Insurance Expire After Leaving My Job?

Is it the day your colleagues threw you the farewell bash or the day you dropped your resignation email? The exact date and time can only be told by your HR representative. 

With that said, the general idea is that you lose your health insurance privileges either on your last day at work or on the last working day of the month you leave your job. The last day at work will be the one when you complete all the resignation formalities and get the relieving letter. The date mentioned in that letter will be considered your last day at work. 

All employers set these guidelines beforehand and usually make the information available to all employees. You can simply read the company handbook, if there is one, or ask the concerned HR of the department.

Will My Health Insurance Stay the Same If I Change Jobs?

If you have secured a new job, your health coverage will change along with your employer. In the UAE, health insurance is directly linked to your residency visa, which, in turn, is tied to your employer. 

Here’s what you need to know — 

1. Visa Cancellation Means Insurance Cancellation: When you leave your current job, your employer will cancel your residency visa. Since your medical insurance is linked to your visa, it will also be cancelled once your employment ends.
2. Your New Employer Provides a Different Plan: Each employer is responsible for providing health cover to their employees. However, they choose their own insurance provider and plan, which means your new job will come with a different health insurance policy. Even if you stay with the same company for years, your employer may change insurers or plans annually. This means your coverage can change from year to year.
3. Expect a Possible Coverage Gap: There may be a waiting period before your new employer’s insurance becomes active. For continuous health coverage, you can obtain an individual health plan until your new policy begins.

How to Bridge the Health Insurance Gap After Leaving My Job in the UAE?

Losing employer-provided health insurance can be a concern, but there are several ways to stay covered in the UAE after leaving your job. 

Here are the key options you can consider — 

1. Individual Health Insurance Plans: If you are no longer covered by your employer’s insurance, the best option is to buy an individual health insurance plan. These policies are available from various insurance providers in the UAE and come with different levels of coverage — from basic to comprehensive. You can choose a plan that fits your budget and medical needs. It is advisable to compare multiple providers before making a decision. Click here to get started!
2. Government-Backed Health Programs (For Emiratis): For UAE nationals, there are government-backed health insurance programs such as ‘Thiqa’ in Abu Dhabi, which provides comprehensive coverage. If you are an Emirati, check with the relevant health authorities to see if you qualify for such benefits.
3. Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) for Low-Income Residents: For individuals earning a lower salary (usually below AED 4,000 per month), Dubai offers the Essential Benefits Plan (EBP) — this is an affordable insurance option to provide basic healthcare coverage. It is a good option if you are looking for minimal but necessary health protection.
4. Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance from a New Job: If you are moving to a new job soon, your new employer will likely provide medical insurance. However, there may be a waiting period before your new coverage starts, so it is essential to check the policy details in advance.

Minimum Health Insurance Coverage During Employment in the UAE

In the UAE, health insurance is mandatory for all residents, allowing you convenient access to essential medical services. Employers play a significant role in providing this coverage, with specific requirements varying across emirates.​

1. Abu Dhabi: Employers are responsible for providing health insurance to their employees and their families, which includes one spouse and up to three children under 18 years old
2. Dubai

• Employers must provide medical insurance coverage for their employees
• Additionally, sponsors are required to secure insurance for their resident dependents. 

Scope of Coverage

The health coverage typically includes —

1. In-patient Services: Such as tests, diagnosis, treatment, surgery, and emergency care
2. Out-patient Services: Including examinations, diagnostics, treatments by general practitioners, specialists, consultants, laboratory testing, radiology diagnostic services, physiotherapy, medicines, vaccines, immunisations, diabetes screening, and more
3. Maternity Services: Covering out-patient antenatal care, in-patient maternity, and more

Health Insurance is a Necessity—Make Sure You Have the Best One!

Losing or changing a job in the UAE doesn’t mean you have to be left without health insurance. While employer-provided coverage ends with your job, there are plenty of ways to stay protected. 

Before making any career move, it’s important to understand when your employer’s insurance will end and when your new coverage will begin. If there’s a gap, taking proactive steps will ensure you remain covered. Platforms like Policybazaar.ae can help you compare and find the best health insurance options tailored to your needs.

Medical insurance isn’t just mandatory in the UAE — it’s your safety net. Make informed decisions, stay insured, and protect your health, no matter where your career takes you!

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