New Insurance policy in UAE to benifit the Lower Income groups

Dubai, June 11 (UNI) Low paid Indian employees and their dependents in the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi are set to gain from a new law on insurance policy approved by the government.

From July 1, all companies of a certain category would be obliged to take part in the health insurance scheme in the first phase that would benefit the lowest paid, an official said.

While in the first phase the insurance scheme would cover companies and institutions of over 1,000 employees, in the second phase beginning January 2007, companies employing less than 1,000 people would come under the insurance coverage.

All employers and sponsors are responsible for providing health insurance, and they would be liable to cover the medical costs for any employee if they are not covered, an official said.

More than half a million expatriates are expected to benefit out of the insurance scheme that will promote accessible, affordable and high quality health services in Abu Dhabi, he said.

The health insurance policy will replace the existing health card and will have to be obtained prior to renewal of visas, it was revealed.

As regards tourists and visitors, all people entering the UAE on travel visa should be covered by health insurance provided by their sponsor. In case of emergency, the sponsor would be responsible for the healthcare fees if the visitor is not covered, and there could be a financial penalty.

UNI XC PR HS1314