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Hiring Your First Employee? Your 2026 Insurance Checklist for Dubai
February 12, 2026
7:26 PM
- Add-ons that Matter: Is “Common Law Liability” Worth the Extra Premium?
- The “70% Wage” Rule: How Loss of Income Payouts Actually Work in the UAE
- Workmen’s Comp vs. Employer’s Liability: Why You Need Both in 2026
- Repatriation Cover: Why This is the Most Critical Add-on for Industrial Employers
- Reporting Accidents: The 24-Hour Rule You Must Follow to Keep Your Policy Valid
From Founder to Employer
Congratulations! Your Dubai startup is growing, and you are ready to hire your first team member. But along with the excitement comes a set of serious legal responsibilities. In 2026, the UAE authorities have simplified the process of hiring, but they have also strictly enforced the “Insurance First” rule. At CoverB, we’ve created this checklist to help you move from a “solopreneur” to a protected employer in under 5 minutes.
1. The Statutory Requirement
Before your employee even sets foot in your office or starts their remote shift, you must have workmen compensation insurance uae in place. This isn’t just a suggestion; it is a requirement for your MOHRE work permit application. Your policy must cover the employee’s basic salary and medical expenses as per the 2026 Unified Labor Contract.
2. Matching Your Trade License
Your workmen compensation insurance policy must match the activity listed on your trade license. If you are licensed as a “Consultancy” but your employee is doing “Delivery” work, your coverage may be voided in the event of an accident. CoverB’s intelligent platform automatically checks your license activity to ensure your workmens compensation coverage is legally accurate.
3. Wage Protection System (WPS) Integration
Ensure your insurance provider is recognized by the MOHRE systems. When you process your first salary through WPS, the system will look for a valid insurance link. CoverB issues instant digital certificates that are recognized across all UAE jurisdictions, preventing any “Compliance Blocks” on your new employee’s visa.
4. The “Probation Period” Myth
A common mistake in 2026 is thinking employees don’t need insurance during their three or six-month probation. This is false. An injury on day one is just as costly as an injury in year five. Your workmen compensation insurance uae must cover the employee from the very first minute of their contract.
Conclusion: Start Your Journey Safely
Don’t let your first hire be your biggest risk. Visit https://coverb.ae/liability/workmens-compensation-insurance/ and let CoverB handle the paperwork while you focus on building your empire.
