The unemployment system was launched in the UAE in January 2023. Both locals and foreigners must register in the system, regardless of if you are in the freehold zone, semi-governmental zone, or otherwise specified. Those who are exempted from registering in the system are: investors/company owners, domestic workers, minors (children under the age of 18), pensioners, and temporary workers.
The insurance program is made up of two categories. Category A is for workers earning up to AED 16K (USD 4.4K) monthly, and Category B is for those earning more than AED 16K (USD 4.4K) monthly. Those in Category A must pay an insurance fee of AED 5 (USD 1.4) per month, while those in Category B must pay AED 10 (USD 2.7) per month. Anyone caught missing a payment will be fined AED 200 (USD 54).
You can sign up for the insurance program on iloe.ae, on the app by the same name, or at any ATM, kiosk, business service center or exchange office. The unemployment insurance covers up to AED 60K (USD 16K). Only those who have had unemployment insurance for at least 12 months can receive compensation. Insurance pays for 3 months from the date of termination or until the insured has found a new job, depending on whichever happens first.
