The National Health Insurance Company, Daman, sponsored the Canadian Business Council Abu Dhabi Event that was co-hosted by the German Business Council. The event discussed in detail the health insurance regulations that have been mandated recently by the Abu Dhabi government and their impact on both business owners and employees.
Speaking on the panel, Dr Michael Bitzer, CEO of Daman stated that “the new health insurance scheme is a step forward in providing a safe living environment to all Abu Dhabi residents and enhancing the standard of living in the capital, in order to cope with the rapid advancement that the country is witnessing in all aspects.” “We are proud to be a major player in this scheme, and will work hard to ensure that we provide the maximum service to all our members,” he added.
During the event, owners of the companies and establishments to which the law applies, exchanged their opinions and impressions about implementing the law and about the negative predictions that accompanied the new law, such as the fear from the financial burden by the owners, and the difficulties associated with applying relatively new procedures on all categories, nevertheless this law has positive impact in terms of boosting the economy, creating job opportunities and protecting the employee’s right.
Also speaking on the panel, Muwaffag A. Ghazi, CBC Chairman shed light on the numerous positive aspects related to the Health Insurance by saying “the implementation of the Health Insurance Scheme offers a new dimension for organizations to invest in the betterment of their workforce. Knowing that their
employers care about their wellbeing is a major motivation that will lead to higher productivity and stronger loyalty and commitment to the job. For employers this is a greatly positive return on their investment.”
The Canadian Business Council of Abu Dhabi is made up of a diverse group of business people representing Canadian and United Arab Emirates companies and organizations. With the aim to build and strengthen business ties in the region, the Council hosts and participates in a multitude of events and exhibitions that are held around the region
On the other hand, Daman has begun the registration procedure for all individuals and groups included in Phase II of the Health Insurance Scheme that commenced at the start of this year. Daman is currently registering applicants through its 4 branches located in different areas in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, as well as its head office.
Daman is the first and largest national health insurance company in the UAE and one of the 18 companies approved by GAHS to issue health insurance policies for expiates covered by the law. Daman aims to become one of the largest health insurance companies in the region.
The company provides various plans and insurance coverage solutions for customers and is currently offering 5 different plans which are: the Abu Dhabi Plan, the UAE Plan, the Regional Plan, the International Plan, and the Global Plan.
About National Health Insurance Company – Daman
The National Health Insurance Company – Daman, was established following the issuance of Decree No. 39-2005 by H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as a public joint stock company providing health insurance services in September 2005. Daman is the first and largest UAE-based public company specializing in the health insurance sector in the Emirates.
Shortly after its formation, Daman signed a partnership agreement with Munich Re due to its extensive experience in health insurance exceeding 125 years, hence naming it the strategic partner responsible for the establishment and operation of Daman
Daman provides health insurance coverage to all expatriates working and residing in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and is the exclusive provider of health insurance services for employees in the public sector in Abu Dhabi. In addition to the basic services stipulated in the Health Insurance Law, Daman also offers additional services that provide insurance coverage over a broader geographical base through its extensive network worldwide.
Daman has attracted highly experienced professionals locally and internationally to join its team, and expects to house a workforce of over 500 employees by the end of 2007.