ILOE insurance is a mandatory scheme for most UAE employees that provides up to 60% of your basic salary for three months if you lose your job involuntarily. This financial safety net, known formally as the , was introduced in 2023 to offer critical support during unexpected career changes Involuntary Loss of Employment insurance scheme
If you're working in the UAE's private sector or free zones, you must register for this scheme. Premiums start at just AED 5 monthly for those earning AED 16,000 or less. Failing to register by the deadline results in a AED 400 fine and makes you ineligible for unemployment benefits if you lose your job.
To qualify for ILOE benefits, you must have worked at least six months in your current position and paid premiums for 12 consecutive months. This makes timely registration crucial for your financial security.
In this article, we'll explain the ILOE registration process step by step, outline eligibility requirements and exemptions, detail payment options, and show you how to file a claim if you face involuntary job loss. Understanding this process ensures you're properly protected under this important workforce support initiative.
What is ILOE Insurance and Why It Matters
ILOE insurance is a significant addition to UAE's employee protection framework. Established under Federal Decree Law No. 13 of 2022, this scheme provides essential financial support for workers facing unexpected job loss. Understanding this program is important for all UAE employees.
Purpose of the scheme
The Involuntary Loss of Employment insurance scheme fulfills several key objectives within the UAE's economic vision. At its core, it provides financial stability during career transitions by offering per claim when employees lose their jobs involuntarily compensation for up to three consecutive months
This safety net helps workers maintain their standard of living while searching for new employment opportunities. The scheme does more than just protect individuals - it strengthens UAE's position as a leading global talent hub. By creating a more secure work environment, ILOE attracts international professionals while boosting the competitiveness of Emirati citizens in the job market.
The program also introduces a systematic approach to workforce protection through a database that manages insurance certificates and premium collections in real-time. This system allows for efficient processing of claims, ensuring support is available quickly when workers need it most.
Who it protects and how
ILOE insurance mainly covers employees in the private sector and federal government positions. Since January 2023, joining the scheme has become mandatory for almost all workers in these sectors. Both UAE nationals and resident expatriates are protected, creating a universal safety net across the workforce.
The protection works through a structured compensation system:
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Eligible employees receive monthly cash benefits equal to calculated from the six months before job loss 60% of their average basic salary
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Category A workers (earning basic salaries up to AED 16,000) can receive maximum benefits of AED 10,000 monthly
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Category B employees (earning above AED 16,000) qualify for up to AED 20,000 monthly
Despite the wide coverage, some groups are exempt from mandatory participation:
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Business owners and investors who manage their own companies
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Domestic workers and household staff
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Temporary contract employees
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Individuals under 18 years of age
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Retirees already receiving pensions who have joined new jobs
For claims approval, workers must have subscribed to the scheme for at least 12 consecutive months with regular premium payments. The unemployment must result from factors beyond the employee's control - resignations and disciplinary dismissals do not qualify for compensation.
Connection to UAE labor laws
The ILOE scheme is a natural progression in UAE's labor protection framework. Introduced through Federal Decree Law No. 13 of 2022, it builds upon existing regulations while strengthening the social safety net for employees.
This initiative aligns with UAE's broader goal of creating a balanced relationship between employers and employees. By establishing a dedicated insurance pool administered by , authorities have created a sustainable mechanism to protect workers when companies face financial difficulties.
The program works in harmony with UAE's Labor Law in the private sector (Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021). This connection ensures that employment protections work together across different aspects of working life - from active employment to transitions between jobs.
ILOE insurance fills an important gap in UAE's labor ecosystem, providing temporary financial support while maintaining the country's appeal in the global talent market.
Eligibility and Exemptions for ILOE Registration
Knowing who must register for ILOE insurance and who is exempt is essential for all UAE workers. Understanding these requirements helps you avoid penalties while ensuring you're properly covered under this unemployment protection scheme.
Who must register
ILOE insurance registration is mandatory for most employees working in the UAE. Since January 1, 2023, all private sector employees and federal government workers must subscribe to the scheme. This requirement applies to both UAE nationals and expatriate residents working in these sectors.
Employees working in free zones throughout the UAE must also register for the scheme. These workers need to select the 'Non-Registered in MOHRE' option when applying.
Employees whose visas are sponsored by their spouses or parents but who have valid work permits issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) must still subscribe to the ILOE scheme. This ensures all legitimate employment arrangements are covered.
Failing to register for ILOE insurance by the deadline results in a . More importantly, non-registration means you lose the financial safety net that this scheme provides during unexpected job loss AED 400 fine.
Who is exempt from the scheme
Despite the broad application of ILOE insurance, certain categories of workers are exempt from mandatory participation. These exemptions include:
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Investors or owners of companies they work at
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Domestic helpers and household staff
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Temporary contract workers (with contracts less than two years)
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Individuals under the age of 18
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Retirees who are entitled to a pension and have joined a new job
Those belonging to exempt categories cannot voluntarily subscribe to the scheme even if they wish to do so. The ILOE framework is specifically designed to cover employees in private, federal, and semi-government sectors rather than all working individuals.
Minimum employment and age requirements
To qualify for ILOE insurance benefits, you must meet several key criteria. First, you must be . This age range defines the primary workforce demographic covered by the scheme.between 18 and 59 years old
You must have been employed with your current organization for at least six months to become eligible for insurance benefits. For Golden Visa holders, having a Labor Card from your employing company is necessary for eligibility.
When claiming benefits after involuntary job loss, you must have subscribed to the scheme for at least twelve consecutive months. A brief interruption in subscription is permitted as long as it doesn't exceed three consecutive months.
The insurance only covers job losses resulting from employer decisions such as downsizing or economic impacts. Resignations or terminations due to disciplinary reasons do not qualify for compensation under the scheme.
Lastly, you must hold a valid UAE residence visa and be legally present in the United Arab Emirates at the time of claiming benefits. This requirement ensures that support goes to those who remain part of the UAE workforce during their transition between jobs.
How to Register for ILOE Insurance UAE in 2025
Registering for ILOE insurance in the UAE is a straightforward process in 2025. You'll need your Emirates ID and a UAE mobile number to complete your application. Let's go through the registration steps one by one.
Step 1: Visit the ILOE portal or app
The easiest way to register for ILOE insurance is through the official online channels:
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Access the official ILOE portal at and click on the "Subscribe/Renew Here" button www.iloe.ae
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Download the ILOE mobile app from Apple App Store or Google Play Store
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Alternatively, visit any Al Ansari Exchange branch in person or use their mobile app
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Head to the nearest Tawjeeh or Tasheel center for assisted registration
Step 2: Enter your Emirates ID and job details
Once you've accessed the portal or app:
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Under the "Individual" section, select your employment sector (Private sector, Federal Government employee, or Non-Registered in MOHRE for free zone workers)
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Enter your Emirates ID number or Unified ID Number (UID)
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Provide your UAE mobile number to receive a one-time password (OTP)
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Enter the OTP for verification and proceed
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The system will display your personal details automatically - verify this information is correct
Step 3: Choose your insurance category
The system automatically categorizes you based on your salary information:
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Category A: For employees with basic salaries up to AED 16,000
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Category B: For employees with basic salaries above AED 16,000
Next, select your subscription duration:
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Choose between a one-year or two-year subscription period
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For one-year subscriptions, select your preferred payment frequency: monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually
Step 4: Pay the premium
To complete your registration:
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Review the terms and conditions and check the acceptance box
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Click "Pay Now" and optionally enter your email address to receive the insurance certificate
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You'll be redirected to the secure payment gateway
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Enter your credit/debit card details and complete the transaction
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Verify the payment with the OTP sent to your registered mobile number
Step 5: Receive confirmation and policy details
Following successful payment:
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You'll receive a confirmation message on screen
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If you provided an email address, your insurance certificate will be sent to your inbox
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On the ILOE dashboard, you can view policy details and download your certificate anytime
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To access your certificate later, simply log in to the ILOE portal or app with your Emirates ID and OTP
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For statements or payment verification, use the "View Statement" option after logging in
Should you encounter any issues finding your information in the system, contact your HR department (for government employees) or submit a technical support ticket on the MOHRE website (for private sector employees).
Payment Plans and Channels for ILOE Dubai Insurance
The UAE's ILOE system offers multiple payment options to suit different financial preferences. Understanding these choices helps you maintain continuous coverage while avoiding penalties.
Monthly, quarterly, and annual options
ILOE insurance premiums are structured according to your basic salary level, with two distinct categories:
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Category A (basic salary up to AED 16,000):
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AED 5 per month
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AED 60 per year
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AED 120 for two years
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Category B (basic salary above AED 16,000):
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AED 10 per month
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AED 120 per year
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AED 240 for two years
You can choose from monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual payment schedules. The system now offers one-year or two-year policy periods. For multi-payment plans, the full VAT amount is added to your first installment.
Where to pay: app, website, exchange centers
ILOE premiums can be paid through various channels:
Direct Channels (free of additional service charges):
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ILOE Portal www.iloe.ae
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ILOE Mobile App (available for Apple and Android devices)
Other Channels (subject to additional service fees):
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Exchange centers like Al Ansari Exchange
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Business centers including Tawjeeh and Tasheel
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Banking channels (apps and ATM machines)
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Telecom companies' bills (DU and Etisalat)
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SMS services
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Payment kiosks and self-service terminals
Many employers offer the convenience of direct wage deduction, which can be arranged through your company's HR department.
Recent updates to payment methods
In 2025, several improvements have been implemented to make ILOE premium payments more accessible:
MOHRE has introduced ILOE Quick Pay, a streamlined service for rapid payment of premiums and fines without needing to log into an account. This system allows instant status checks and payments through a simplified interface.
The MOHRE mobile app now integrates ILOE Pay functionality, enabling on-the-go payments. For added security and convenience, the app supports UAE Pass login, verifying your identity automatically.
If you miss renewing within the deadline, a fine of AED 200 applies. This penalty can accumulate over time and potentially affect visa renewals and other government transactions, making timely payments particularly important.
To maintain eligibility for benefits, remember that 12 consecutive months of contributions are required before you can claim compensation for involuntary job loss.
How to File an ILOE Insurance Claim After Job Loss
If you lose your job involuntarily in the UAE, you can claim ILOE insurance benefits to help with financial stability during your transition period. The claim process is straightforward if you follow the proper steps and meet all requirements.
When and how to file a claim
You must submit your claim within 30 days from your employment termination date. This timeframe is strict – missing this deadline will invalidate your claim regardless of other qualifications. You can file through these official channels:
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ILOE portal www.iloe.ae
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ILOE mobile app
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ILOE call center (600599555)
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Other designated MOHRE channels
Claims are typically processed within two weeks, provided all your documents and information are correct and complete.
Documents required
To ensure a smooth claim process, prepare these essential documents:
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Termination letter clearly indicating involuntary dismissal (not resignation)
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Emirates ID for identity verification
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Travel report confirming your UAE residency status
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Canceled work permit documentation
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IBAN certificate for benefit transfer
Having accurate documentation ready before you start the claim process helps avoid delays and increases your chances of approval.
Compensation structure and duration
Once your claim is approved, you'll receive:
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Monthly compensation equal to 60% of your average basic salary from the six months before job loss
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Category A (basic salary up to AED 16,000): maximum AED 10,000 monthly
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Category B (basic salary above AED 16,000): maximum AED 20,000 monthly
Benefits continue for a maximum of three consecutive months per claim. Throughout your entire working life in the UAE, you cannot receive more than 12 monthly benefit payments in total, regardless of how many separate claims you submit.
Common reasons for claim rejection
Your claim may be rejected for these reasons:
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Voluntary resignation rather than involuntary termination
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Dismissal due to disciplinary reasons
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Insufficient contribution period (less than 12 consecutive months)
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Filing after the 30-day window
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Abscondment complaints against you
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No longer legally present in UAE
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Providing fraudulent information or fictitious employer details
The most important factor for approval is ensuring your termination was properly classified as involuntary. If you resigned or were dismissed for disciplinary reasons, you won't qualify for benefits under this scheme.
Conclusion
ILOE insurance is an essential financial safety net for UAE employees. This mandatory scheme provides up to 60% of your basic salary for three consecutive months if you lose your job involuntarily.
Registering by the deadline is critical as missing it leads to a AED 400 and makes you ineligible for unemployment benefits. The registration process through the ILOE portal, mobile app, or authorized centers is straightforward, making compliance simple for all eligible workers fine
The payment structure offers helpful flexibility, with contributions starting at just AED 5 monthly for Category A workers (those earning up to AED 16,000). You can choose monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual payment plans based on what works best for your financial situation.
When filing a claim, remember these key points:
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Submit your claim within 30 days of job loss
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Only involuntary terminations qualify for benefits
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You must have contributed for at least 12 consecutive months
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The maximum benefit period is three consecutive months per claim
ILOE insurance forms a key part of UAE's labor protection framework. for additional coverage options that can strengthen your financial safety net alongside ILOE protection.
Learn About Shory Insurance
Staying informed about your rights and responsibilities under this scheme helps you navigate employment transitions confidently. The peace of mind that comes from having temporary financial support during unexpected career changes makes ILOE insurance a valuable component of working life in the UAE.