10 things to consider beforehand
Travel insurance is a growing priority for residents in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), especially as international movement increases across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Whether for leisure, business, or religious travel, choosing the right policy requires careful evaluation of coverage, reliability, and service.
Union Insurance is among the most widely used providers in the UAE. It offers travel insurance plans that meet regulatory standards and are often tailored to meet the needs of individuals, families, and corporations. Policies typically include medical cover, emergency evacuation, and trip cancellation protection. The company is regulated within the UAE and serves customers through an expanding regional network.
Orient Insurance, under the Al-Futtaim Group, has a significant presence in the Gulf region. Its travel plans cover a wide range of scenarios, including delayed flights, lost baggage, and medical emergencies. It is one of the few UAE-based providers with strong underwriting support from major global reinsurers, which can impact claims efficiency and stability.
Oman Insurance, now rebranded as Sukoon Insurance, is another leading provider. It offers travel products suited to both outbound UAE travellers and inbound visitors. Coverage often includes hospitalisation, repatriation, and travel disruptions. Sukoon is also among the insurers that have incorporated Covid-19-related coverage into their offerings.
When buying travel insurance in the UAE, experts recommend reviewing several key aspects.
Medical coverage limits and exclusions are especially critical. Travellers should also examine how claims are processed, whether online support is available, and whether pre-existing conditions are covered. Regulatory oversight by the Central Bank of the UAE ensures that authorised insurers meet compliance standards, but consumers are still advised to read policy documents carefully.
With Dubai and Abu Dhabi serving as major international transit hubs, demand for flexible and region-specific policies continues to grow. As uncertainty around health, conflict, and natural disruptions remains part of global travel, UAE residents are increasingly seeking insurance options that balance cost with comprehensive coverage.
10 things to consider when booking travel insurance in the UAE
- Coverage for trip cancellations, delays, or interruptions to recover non-refundable expenses if plans change unexpectedly.
- Medical emergency cover, including hospitalisation, ambulance services, and repatriation.
- Policy inclusions and exclusions, such as adventure sports or pre-existing medical conditions, may not be covered.
- Destination-specific risks, like high medical costs or natural disasters, may influence the type of policy required.
- Claim settlement process and insurer reputation for timely, hassle-free payouts.
- Duration of the trip and whether the policy covers multiple countries or just one destination.
- Cost of the premium compared to the benefits provided, ensuring the policy is good value for money.
- Baggage loss or theft coverage, particularly for high-value items like electronics or personal documents.
- Assistance services, including 24/7 helplines, multilingual support, or app-based claim systems.
- Legitimacy of the insurer, ensuring the provider is licensed and recognised by local regulators.
Image: When buying travel insurance in the UAE, experts recommend reviewing several key aspects. Credit: Andrei Tanase
