How to Claim and Grounds for Eligibility for Unemployment Insurance in the UAE
The UAE's Unemployment Insurance Scheme, also known as the Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) Scheme, provides financial support to employees who lose their jobs due to reasons beyond their control. Below is a guide on how to claim unemployment insurance and the grounds for eligibility:
To claim unemployment insurance benefits, employees must meet the following conditions:
Subscription PeriodMust have been subscribed to the scheme for at least 12 consecutive months without interruptions exceeding three months.
Payment of PremiumsAll insurance premiums must be paid on time according to the agreed payment plan.
Reason for Job LossThe job loss must be involuntary (e.g., layoffs or business closures).
Resignation or dismissal for disciplinary reasons disqualifies employees from claiming benefits.
Legal Stay in the UAEThe claimant must have a valid residency visa and remain in the UAE while applying for benefits.
Timely Claim SubmissionClaims must be submitted within 30 days of job loss or termination of the labor relationship.
No Absconding ReportsEmployees with absconding reports or fraudulent claims are not eligible.
Steps to Claim Unemployment Insurance
Gather Required Documents
Emirates IDTermination letter stating the reason for job loss.
Proof of salary (e.g., last six months’ payslips or bank statements).
Submit a ClaimVisit the ILOE portal, mobile app, or call center.
Log in using Emirates ID and mobile number.
Fill out the claim form, upload required documents, and provide bank details (IBAN).
Claim ProcessingOnce submitted, claims are reviewed by the insurance provider.
Approved claims are paid within a specified period.
Compensation DetailsCompensation is calculated at 60% of the employee’s basic salary:
Employees earning less than AED 16,000: Up to AED 10,000 per month.
Employees earning more than AED 16,000: Up to AED 20,000 per month.
Benefits are provided for a maximum of three months per claim.
ExclusionsResignation or dismissal due to misconduct.
Temporary or part-time workers, business owners, investors, domestic workers, and retirees receiving pensions.
Job losses caused by war, riots, terrorism, or natural disasters.
By adhering to these guidelines and submitting claims promptly, employees can access financial support during periods of unemployment.
In the UAE, under the Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) Scheme, the first unemployment insurance payment is typically received within 2 to 3 weeks after filing a claim, provided all required documents are submitted accurately and there are no disputes or additional verifications needed.