Oman rolls out mandatory health insurance scheme 

Oman has begun rolling out its mandatory health insurance scheme (Dhamani) for private sector employees, expatriates and foreign visitors — more than 2 million people. The plan calls for employers to pay the health insurance premium. Other program details, including minimum coverage requirements, are outlined in a unified health insurance policy recently issued by the Capital Markets Authority under Resolution No 34 of 2019 (Arabic). Plans must cover inpatient care, emergency services, treatment of basic illnesses that hinder productivity and drugs prescribed by a Ministry of Health licensed doctor. Employers can also choose to cover pregnancy, birth, child health, and dental and eye care as optional benefits.

The scheme will be rolled out in phases after approval of the Council of Ministers.

Related Resources

• Resolution 34 of 2019 (Arabic) (Capital Markets Authority, 24 Mar 2019)
• Press Release (Capital Markets Authority, 1 Apr 2019)