The United Arab Emirates plans to roll out universal health coverage in 2023, which should be seen in the context of previous reforms on long-term resident visas, including for retirees.
Image Credit: Shutterstock
As the United Arab Emirates and Gulf States seek ways to attract and retain more talent, these countries need to implement initiatives that help their residents develop a better sense of security and security. I have. Compulsory health insurance and universal health care are essential standards for developed countries and the right thing to do.
In welfare states, such as most European countries, the cost of providing universal coverage is borne by the government and paid for from tax revenues. The demographic combination of her GCC countries, where foreigners make up the majority of the population, and the lack of an income tax make the region different from European welfare states.
In 2013, Dubai passed a law requiring all residents of the emirate to have health insurance. To do this, the government has linked this with the issuance of employment and residence visas. However, this was limited to Dubai residents.
The UAE government’s latest decision to make health insurance compulsory for all residents by 2023 will go a long way in creating a universal healthcare ecosystem. It also strengthens the country’s reputation as an ideal place to live, work and do business.
health insurance payments
With this, the UAE has once again taken a leading role in promoting the health and well-being of its citizens and residents. One question remains. Who pays for health insurance premiums? When Dubai launched his scheme in 2013, it required employers or sponsors to pay for health insurance. This was seen as an additional cost burden for employers.
But all companies bear the cost and are used to it by now. The same model could be replicated across the country. Alternatively, provisions can be made to share costs between the insured and the sponsor or employer in special cases. This flexibility will help ensure universal health coverage for all.
The United Arab Emirates recently launched a retirement visa scheme to allow people to live in the country after completing their careers. You don’t need a typical sponsor or employer for this. Retirees over the age of 55 can apply for a five-year long-stay visa.
Incentives for Retirees
Mandatory health insurance helps retirees live more safely in the UAE. The United Arab Emirates has taken the initiative to offer long-term stays to foreigners by introducing a 10-year golden visa scheme, mandatory health insurance and long-lasting unemployment insurance in addition to retirement benefits. . How to expand the social safety net, especially for foreign professionals.
As the UAE becomes a developed country, social and economic reforms need to be introduced to benefit the employees and professionals living and working in the UAE. This is the same way the West benefits from universal health coverage.
The UAE’s recent investment, business, immigration and labor market reforms are attracting more professionals, investors and entrepreneurs, but the introduction of more reforms will keep people around longer. With mandatory health insurance, the UAE is heading in that direction.
