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Repatriation Cover: Why This is the Most Critical Add-on for Industrial Employers
February 12, 2026
7:12 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
- Hiring Your First Employee? Your 2026 Insurance Checklist for Dubai
- Workmen’s Comp vs. Employer’s Liability: Why You Need Both in 2026
- Reporting Accidents: The 24-Hour Rule You Must Follow to Keep Your Policy Valid
The Logistics of the Unthinkable
In the industrial and construction hubs of 2026—from Jebel Ali to the expansion projects in Al Maktoum Airport—the workforce is largely expatriate. While every employer hopes for a safe workplace, they must prepare for the worst. If a worker passes away or suffers a life-altering injury that requires them to return to their home country, the cost of repatriation falls squarely on the employer. At CoverB, we ensure that your workmen compensation insurance policy includes this vital financial protection.
What Does Repatriation Actually Cost?
In 2026, the logistics of transporting an injured person or mortal remains have become increasingly complex and expensive. A standard repatriation can cost anywhere from AED 15,000 to AED 40,000, depending on the destination and the medical equipment required during the flight. Under Article 131 of the UAE Labor Law, the employer is legally obligated to bear these costs. Without a specialized rider from one of the top workmens compensation insurance companies, this expense can hit your business like an unguided missile.
Beyond Just a Flight Ticket
A comprehensive repatriation cover through CoverB does not just pay for a ticket. It covers:
- Medical Escorts: Professional doctors or nurses required to accompany a critically injured patient.
- Specialized Equipment: Oxygen tanks, stretchers, or monitoring devices needed on a commercial or private flight.
- Administrative Fees: Handling the complex paperwork with embassies, the Ministry of Health, and airlines.
- Mortal Remains: In the tragic event of a fatality, the dignified return of the employee to their family.
The 2026 Statutory Shift
The 2026 updates to the Unified Labor Policy have placed more scrutiny on how quickly these funds are released. Authorities now look for immediate action from employers. By having this cover integrated into your workmen compensation insurance uae, you ensure that the insurer takes the lead on logistics, allowing you to focus on supporting the affected team members and maintaining site morale.
Conclusion: Dignity in Transit
Repatriation is more than a legal duty; it’s a moral one. Visit https://coverb.ae/liability/workmens-compensation-insurance/ and let CoverB ensure that if the worst happens, you have the logistical and financial power to do the right thing.
