The mandatory Unemployment Insurance Scheme of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was implemented on Sunday, January 1, 2023, with an additional grace period until October 1, 2023.
The programme is applicable to both Emirati and expatriate employees across both the public and private sectors.
What else do you need to know?
In the event of unemployment, the ILOE, a form of social security, will provide up to three months of compensation to labourers.
Sunday, January 1, 2023, marked the implementation of the ILOE scheme, and the grace period of six months was extended to October 1, 2023.
The Dubai Insurance website states that the programme is applicable to both Emirati and expatriate employees operating within the public and private sectors. Through the "Non-Registered in MOHRE" link, employees who work in free zones may also register.
The steps to enrol in the ILOE programme
By means of seven channels, including the Dubai Insurance website portal, visiting their local Al Ansari Exchange, or government business centres (Tawjeeh or Tasheel), all eligible employees are able to subscribe. Please ensure that your Emirates ID number and UAE mobile number are readily available.
What is the cost of the UAE unemployment insurance scheme?
In Category A, employees earning a minimum of Dhs16,000 per month are obligated to make a monthly insurance premium payment of Dhs5, amounting to Dhs60 annually.
Those in Category B, whose annual base salary surpasses Dhs16,000, are obligated to make a monthly payment of Dhs10, or Dhs120.
The premium payment options for employees are monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual. Please be advised that employees must pay the monthly premium for a minimum of 12 consecutive months in order to qualify for the benefits.
What will my compensation amount to?
The determination of compensation will be predicated on the remuneration of the individual. Its duration cannot exceed three months following the date of unemployment.
The compensation may amount to sixty percent of the remuneration of the employee. For instance:
Category A: The maximum monthly claim benefit is Dhs10,000.
Category B: The maximum monthly claim benefit is Dhs20,000.
What will occur if I fail to enrol?
In accordance with Cabinet Resolution No. 97 of 2022, non-subscribing UAE employees to the UAE unemployment insurance by the stipulated extension date of October 1 will incur a penalty of Dhs400 from the Ministry. Furthermore, in the event that the insured neglects to remit the prescribed insurance premiums for a period exceeding three months, they will be subject to a Dhs200 fine.
To ascertain the status of your fine, please consult the MoHRE's application, website, or business service centre.