Lost Your Job? How to Secure Your UAE Unemployment Benefits

For millions of private sector employees in the UAE, the Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) scheme serves as a critical financial safety net. However, a growing number of expatriates are finding themselves vulnerable because they are either unaware of their coverage status or have allowed their policies to lapse.
Financial Support During Job Transitions
The ILOE scheme is designed to support workers who lose their jobs for reasons other than resignation or disciplinary action. If you qualify, you can receive 60 percent of your average basic salary, calculated from the six months immediately preceding your job loss. This support is available for a maximum period of three months.
Understanding the Tiers and Payouts
The amount you receive and the cost of your premium depend on your salary level:
- Category A: For employees with a basic salary of AED 16,000 or less. The monthly premium is AED 5 plus VAT, and