Coronavirus Update for Employers in the UAE
Asinta’s UAE Partner, Nexus, provided this coronavirus update for employers in the UAE.
The United Arab Emirates has confirmed several cases of COVID-19. The Ministry of Education closed all schools for four weeks beginning March 8, 2020.
According to Nexus, global workforce managers should also know that:
- The UAE’s Ministry of Health urged its citizens and residents to avoid travel due to the current coronavirus outbreak.
- If a person tests positive, quarantine procedures are applicable.
- Airport screenings for coronavirus infection are in place in Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports
Health and evacuation insurance
- Receiving treatment for coronavirus in the UAE is free regardless of insurance.
- All Dubai Health Authority (DHA) licensed health facilities treat coronavirus cases as emergencies.
- Employer-sponsored coverage continues as described in policy documents. However, it is subject to change if the World Health Organization (WHO) declares COVID-19 a pandemic.
- Health plans do not cover outpatient or consumable medical supplies (e.g. masks, gloves, hand sanitizer).
- Evacuation costs are not covered if the if the sole purpose of the evacuation is to extract from a COVID-19 situation.
Other helpful resources
- UAE Ministry of Health & Prevention
- UAE National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority
This coronavirus update for employers in the UAE is one of a series dedicated to helping global workforce managers navigate the evolving challenges brought on by COVID-19. Expect regular articles such as this from the Asinta Partnership as the global impact of the coronavirus unfolds.