Is ILOE insurance mandatory for all workers in Dubai?

Yes, every private-sector employee on a work visa must hold valid ILOE cover; government and domestic staff are exempt.

How long does ILOE pay benefits after job loss?

You receive 60 % of your basic salary for a maximum of three months while you search for new employment.

Can my employer deduct ILOE from my salary?

No, the fee is paid directly by you via the MOHRE portal; it is not an employer expense.

What happens if I forget to renew ILOE?

Your visa renewal at GDRFA will be blocked until you settle the outstanding premium.

Do I need ILOE if I hold a freelance visa?

No, ILOE is not required for freelance or self-sponsored visas; only standard employment visas fall under the scheme.

How to Apply for ILOE Insurance in Dubai 2026

Quick answer

Apply online via the MOHRE portal or the MOHRE app: pay AED 60 per year for employees earning AED 16,000 or less, or AED 120 per year for higher earners. You must hold a valid UAE work visa and Emirates ID. Once paid, coverage starts immediately and lasts 12 months.

Why ILOE Insurance Matters for Expats in Dubai

ILOE (Involuntary Loss of Employment) insurance protects you if your employer terminates your contract without cause. It pays 60 % of your basic salary for up to three months, giving you time to find new work without financial panic. In 2026 the scheme remains mandatory for all private-sector workers under UAE Labour Law.

Who Needs to Get ILOE Insurance?

All private-sector employees sponsored on a UAE work visa.
Both unlimited and limited contracts are covered.
Domestic workers, freelancers on a freelance visa, and government staff are exempt.

Cost of ILOE Insurance in Dubai 2026

The annual premium is fixed and collected with your visa or residency renewal:

AED 60 per year – basic salary AED 16,000 or less.
AED 120 per year – basic salary above AED 16,000.

Payment is made online; no cash option exists at MOHRE centres.

Documents You Need Before Applying

Valid Emirates ID (front and back scan).
Passport copy with valid residence visa page.
Work contract or offer letter showing basic salary.
Active mobile number linked to UAE SIM.
Debit or credit card for online payment.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for ILOE Insurance in Dubai

Step 1 – Download or Open the Portal

Visit the MOHRE website (MOHRE.gov.ae) or open the “MOHRE” app on your phone. Both English and Arabic interfaces are available.

Step 2 – Create or Log In to Your Account

Use your Emirates ID number and mobile number registered with ICP. If you are a new user, verify via an OTP sent to your UAE SIM.

Step 3 – Navigate to ILOE Service

From the dashboard, select “Insurance Services” then “ILOE Unemployment Insurance.” The system auto-checks your visa status.

Step 4 – Review Salary Data

Your basic salary is pulled from your work contract on file. Confirm the figure; if it is wrong, contact your PRO or HR before paying.

Step 5 – Pay the Premium

Choose your plan (AED 60 or AED 120). Pay with any Visa or MasterCard. You receive an instant digital policy certificate via email and in the app.

Step 6 – Keep Proof of Payment

Save the PDF certificate. You may need it when renewing your visa or claiming benefits later.

Common Mistakes Expats Make

Forgetting to pay before visa renewal, causing a block at GDRFA.
Assuming the employer pays; the cost is always on the employee.
Using an expired Emirates ID; the portal will reject payment.
Entering the wrong passport number, leading to claim rejection.

Tips to Avoid Claim Problems

Keep your Emirates ID and visa valid at all times.
Notify MOHRE within 30 days if you lose your job; late claims are denied.
Update your mobile number so claim SMS alerts reach you.
Store the policy PDF in cloud storage for easy access abroad.

ILOE vs Other Insurances – Quick Comparison

Feature	ILOE	Health Insurance (DHA)	Life Insurance
Mandatory?	Yes	Yes	No
Premium 2026	AED 60–120/yr	AED 700–3,000/yr	Variable
Benefit	60 % salary, 3 months	Medical cover	Death benefit

Renewing or Cancelling ILOE

The policy auto-renews when you renew your residence visa. If you leave the UAE permanently, coverage ends on your visa cancellation date; no refund is issued for remaining months.

Key takeaway

ILOE is inexpensive, takes five minutes online, and provides vital income protection. Pay the correct fee on time, keep digital copies of every document, and notify MOHRE quickly if you lose your job. Doing these three things ensures you stay compliant and covered throughout your Dubai stay.