How to Claim UAE Unemployment Insurance (ILOE): Step-by-Step Guide and Eligibility Criteria

Maryam Pervez -

Claiming job loss insurance benefits in the UAE can be a complex process if you're unaware of the requirements and steps involved. The UAE's Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) insurance scheme, mandatory for all employees, provides financial support to public and private sector workers who lose their jobs.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand how to claim these benefits.

Understanding ILOE Eligibility

To be eligible for ILOE benefits, employees must meet the following criteria:

  1. Subscription Period: You must be subscribed to the unemployment insurance scheme for at least 12 consecutive months, with no interruptions longer than three consecutive months.
  2. Timely Premium Payments: All insurance premiums must be paid on time.
  3. Non-Resignation: The reason for unemployment must not be due to resignation. The termination letter from your employer must state 'termination.'
  4. No Disciplinary Dismissal: You must not be dismissed for disciplinary reasons under UAE labor laws.
  5. Claim Submission: Submit your claim within 30 days from the termination date or settlement of a labor complaint referred to the judiciary.
  6. No Absconding Complaints: You must not have any existing complaints related to absence from work.
  7. No Fraud: There must be no fraud or deceit involved in your claim.
  8. Legal Presence in UAE: You must be legally present in the UAE at the time of the claim.
  9. Exclusion Conditions: The loss of employment should not result from events like war, pollution, or government actions leading to employer insolvency.

Required Documents

To claim ILOE benefits, you will need:

  • Dismissal Document: Indicating the date and reason for unemployment.
  • Employer Undertaking: For a final judicial ruling in case of a labor lawsuit.
  • Emirates ID Copy
  • Certificate of Insurance Copy
  • Work Permit Cancellation Document
  • Visa Cancellation Document
  • Employment Contract Copy
  • IBAN Certificate
  • Valid UAE Mobile Number
  • Supporting Documents: As requested by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

Claim Submission Process

  1. Ensure Contract Cancellation: Confirm your labor contract is cancelled by your employer.
  2. Submit Claim Form: Fill out and submit the claim form to ILOE within 30 days of termination.
  3. Attach Documents: Ensure all required documents are attached in PDF format.
  4. Verification and Payment: Dubai Insurance Company will verify the claim and process the payment within two weeks, provided all eligibility criteria are met.

Steps After Filing a Claim

Once you file a claim, the insurer will process the documents. You may need to provide a 'travel report' to confirm your presence in the UAE, which can be obtained through GDRFA or the Amer center, or via the Dubai NOW app.

Compensation Details

The ILOE scheme is divided into two categories:

  • Category 1: For those with a basic salary of Dh16,000 or below, with a premium of Dh5 per month and a maximum monthly compensation of Dh10,000.
  • Category 2: For those with a basic salary exceeding Dh16,000, with a premium of Dh10 per month and a monthly compensation cap of Dh20,000.

Compensation is provided for up to three months from the date of unemployment for each claim, provided the termination was not for disciplinary reasons and the employee did not resign.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate the ILOE claim process with greater ease and ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

News Source: Khaleej Times