- The best travel insurance plans for Dubai
- Is it currently safe to travel to Dubai?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Dubai?
- Why you need travel insurance for Dubai
- What travel insurance for Dubai should cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Dubai
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Dubai
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Dubai?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Dubai: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Dubai covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel incidents.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for Australians but is strongly recommended by the Australian government.
3. Healthcare cost: A hospital stay in Dubai can easily exceed AUD $1,000 per night for tourists.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Dubai typically costs between AUD $30 and AUD $80.
5. Good to know: Be aware of strict local laws in the UAE, which differ greatly from Australia.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analysing 41 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Dubai.
The best travel insurance plans for Dubai
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.6M AUD | A comprehensive choice for safe travel to Dubai. - high medical limit - strong repatriation cover - modern emergency support |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.6M AUD | Good for short or family holidays in Dubai. - 24/7 medical hotline - cancellation cover - simple no-deductible terms |
| Tourist Card | 810k AUD | Practical for sightseeing in Dubai with solid core protection. - good hospital cover - emergency return - attractive pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | 1.1M AUD | Balanced policy for various travellers. - covers repatriation - hospital and outpatient care - broad geographical coverage |
| Globe Partner | 490k AUD | Suitable for international stays to Dubai. - essential overseas medical - repatriation - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | 810k AUD | Affordable for short visits to Dubai. - basic but adequate medical cover - fast claims - moderate ceiling |
- high medical limit
- strong repatriation cover
- modern emergency support
- 24/7 medical hotline
- cancellation cover
- simple no-deductible terms
- good hospital cover
- emergency return
- attractive pricing
- covers repatriation
- hospital and outpatient care
- broad geographical coverage
- essential overseas medical
- repatriation
- civil liability
- basic but adequate medical cover
- fast claims
- moderate ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Dubai?
As of June 2025, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Dubai due to ongoing security concerns in the Middle East. Travel is not officially discouraged for Dubai, but vigilance is required at all times.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: the risk of terrorism remains present, with public areas such as malls, hotels and transport hubs considered possible targets. Security measures can increase without notice, and there have been sudden airspace closures in the region.
- Health risks: recent flooding has led to outbreaks of waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid. Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever have been reported, and medical care may require large upfront payments, especially in private hospitals.
- Legal constraints: laws in the UAE differ significantly from those in Australia. For example, public displays of affection can result in fines or arrest, and certain medications are strictly controlled, requiring official approval for import.
- Cultural norms: modest dress is required in public, particularly in Sharjah and Ajman, with shoulders and knees covered. Behaviours acceptable in Australia, such as swearing or rude gestures, may lead to penalties in Dubai.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Dubai.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Dubai?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for Australian citizens to enter Dubai.
Australians receive a free visa on arrival for stays up to 30 days, and there is no legal obligation to show proof of travel insurance at the border. However, healthcare in Dubai can be very expensive, and private hospitals often require payment up front.
While not compulsory, the Australian government strongly recommends travel insurance to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation in case of accident, illness, or other incidents. This ensures you will not face high costs or administrative complications in case of a health emergency.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Dubai. This high percentage is due to the expensive private health system, unpredictable health risks, and security context in the region.
Why you need travel insurance for Dubai
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Dubai.
In Dubai, foreigners are mainly treated in high-standard private hospitals such as American Hospital Dubai or Mediclinic City Hospital. Public hospitals in Dubai are generally reserved for UAE residents and do not offer subsidised rates for tourists, so medical costs in private clinics can be extremely high for Australians.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Australia in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Dubai.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at American Hospital Dubai | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | AED 22,000 (AUD 9,100) | up to AED 370,000 (AUD 153,000) |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | AED 14,000 (AUD 5,800) | up to AED 370,000 (AUD 153,000) |
| I need to be repatriated | AED 65,000 (AUD 27,000) | up to AED 370,000 (AUD 153,000) |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | AED 35,000 (AUD 14,500) | up to AED 370,000 (AUD 153,000) |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What travel insurance for Dubai should cover
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Dubai.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers doctor visits, hospitalisation, diagnostic tests, and urgent treatment. We recommend at least AUD 150,000 coverage due to Dubai’s expensive private hospitals. |
| 🚑 Emergency evacuation and repatriation | Covers transport to Australia in case of serious illness or accident. Opt for at least AUD 150,000 in coverage. |
| 💊 Medication expenses | Reimburses prescribed medicines and vaccines needed during your stay. Choose plans with pharmacy cover up to AUD 1,500 minimum. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation and curtailment | Reimburses non-refundable costs if you cancel or cut short the trip. At least AUD 10,000 recommended for flights and hotels. |
| 🏨 Quarantine or trip disruption | Covers extra accommodation or rebooking costs due to quarantine or major disruption. Minimum AUD 2,000 suggested. |
| 🎒 Baggage and personal items | Covers loss, theft or delay of luggage and valuables. Aim for AUD 3,000 or more in cover. |
| 👨⚖️ Personal liability | Protection in case you cause accidental damage or injury. We recommend at least AUD 1,000,000. |
| 📞 24/7 assistance | Offers a support line for emergencies and claims. Confirmation of 24/7 multilingual help is essential. |
We recommend at least AUD 150,000 coverage due to Dubai’s expensive private hospitals.
Opt for at least AUD 150,000 in coverage.
Choose plans with pharmacy cover up to AUD 1,500 minimum.
At least AUD 10,000 recommended for flights and hotels.
Minimum AUD 2,000 suggested.
Aim for AUD 3,000 or more in cover.
We recommend at least AUD 1,000,000.
Confirmation of 24/7 multilingual help is essential.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often covers little, with many exclusions and low limits. Choosing a reputable insurer with comprehensive cover is much safer. Compare leading options with HelloSafe and easily subscribe online for instant insurance certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Dubai
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | AUD 40 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | AUD 77 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | AUD 110 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | AUD 180 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance policy depends on several key factors: your age, the length of your trip, your destination, the level of cover you choose, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Keeping these in mind is vital to find the right cover for your trip and avoid any nasty surprises.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to Dubai
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Dubai while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Medical costs in Dubai’s private hospitals can be very high. Inadequate coverage could leave you exposed to expensive bills. | Choose only the coverage you realistically need and compare offers with similar medical limits before buying. |
| 📅 Trip duration | Insurance premiums rise with longer stays. Over-insuring for unnecessary days can inflate the cost. | Buy insurance only for the exact dates of your stay in Dubai to avoid paying extra for unused coverage. |
| 👨👩👧 Travellers included | Individual, couple or family coverage impacts the premium. Group policies can be more affordable for families. | For lower cost, choose a family or couple policy if travelling together rather than insuring each person separately. |
| 🧑 Age of traveller | Some insurers raise prices with age, especially after 60. Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. | Compare policies between insurers if you or your co-travellers are over 60, as some charge higher rates than others. |
| 📑 Exclusions and deductibles | Higher deductibles generally lower premiums but can cost more if you need care in Dubai. | Opt for a slightly higher deductible if you are comfortable with some risk to enjoy a lower upfront price. |
| 🏷️ Comparing providers | Costs can vary by over 50% for the same coverage. Comparing avoids overpaying for similar guarantees. | Always request quotes from several insurers before booking to secure the best value for your needs. |
| 🖥️ Online-only insurers | Online providers often offer lower premiums due to reduced administration. | Use reputable online-only travel insurers for Dubai as premiums can be lower than traditional travel agencies. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Dubai?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your current coverage, such as public or private health insurance or credit card insurance, will cover you in Dubai. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Dubai? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare) | Never | No coverage for emergency healthcare, no access to public or private hospitals, no medical evacuation | Travel insurance offers up to AUD 500,000-1,000,000 for medical expenses and emergency evacuation, plus direct billing. |
| Private health insurance (Bupa, Medibank, NIB) | Limited coverage | Sometimes partial reimbursement post-trip, AUD 5,000–20,000 limit, excludes direct payment, no evacuation | Travel insurance can pay AUD 500,000+ for hospital care or air ambulance, includes 24/7 on-ground assistance. |
| Classic credit card (ANZ First, Westpac Low Rate, CBA Low Fee) | Limited coverage | Overseas medical expenses up to AUD 20,000, no hospital choice, no trip cancellation, basic delays or loss | Travel insurance offers up to AUD 1,000,000 for health costs, repatriation, trip interruption, and covers all family members. |
| Premium credit card (ANZ Platinum, NAB Signature, Westpac Black) | Limited coverage | Medical costs up to AUD 60,000–150,000, minimal baggage delay, very strict eligibility and restrictions | Travel insurance covers up to AUD 1,000,000+ for illness, lost luggage, all flights, and comprehensive repatriation with fewer limits. |
Example
After a mosquito bite in Dubai, Liam developed severe dengue fever, requiring intensive care. The hospital bill hit AU$25,000. His CommBank Platinum card's complimentary insurance had a AU$24,000 shortfall after the excess and limits, and his private health insurance didn't cover him overseas, leaving him with a massive unexpected debt.
Expert advice
Your credit card or private health insurance might not cover you if you have to cut your trip short for a family emergency. Always read the fine print to avoid nasty surprises overseas. To be safe and for peace of mind, it's always best to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Dubai?
Australian citizens do not need to apply for a visa before travelling to Dubai. A free 30-day multiple-entry visa is granted on arrival at the airport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you enter. Emergency passports are not accepted for travel to Dubai.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Dubai?
To purchase travel insurance for Dubai, start by comparing different plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the details for exclusions and cover limits that apply in Dubai, including medical, baggage, and liability risks. Once you’ve chosen, buy online and you will receive your insurance certificate instantly.
What should travel insurance for Dubai typically cover?
Comprehensive travel insurance for Dubai should cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, personal liability, lost or stolen baggage, and trip cancellation. Make sure your policy also provides coverage for sports or activities you plan to do. Review exclusions relevant to Dubai, including pre-existing conditions and travel to nearby high-risk regions.
Are medical costs expensive for travellers in Dubai?
Medical treatment in Dubai’s private hospitals is of a high standard, but costs can be substantial if you are uninsured. Payment is usually required upfront, and a normal hospital stay can easily exceed AUD 10,000. Adequate insurance is strongly advised to avoid expensive out-of-pocket payments in case of emergencies.
When should I buy travel insurance for my trip to Dubai?
You should buy travel insurance as soon as you book your flights or accommodation. Early purchase means you are protected against unexpected cancellations, delays, or emergencies before and during your trip. Buying insurance well in advance gives the best value and widest protection for your travels to Dubai.
Is my credit card insurance enough for a trip to Dubai?
Credit card travel insurance may offer basic protection, but it usually comes with low limits and many exclusions. The coverage may not extend to activities such as quad biking or local medical evacuation. For comprehensive coverage, always check the policy terms or purchase additional dedicated travel insurance for Dubai.
Do I need a visa to travel to Dubai?
Australian citizens do not need to apply for a visa before travelling to Dubai. A free 30-day multiple-entry visa is granted on arrival at the airport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you enter. Emergency passports are not accepted for travel to Dubai.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Dubai?
To purchase travel insurance for Dubai, start by comparing different plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the details for exclusions and cover limits that apply in Dubai, including medical, baggage, and liability risks. Once you’ve chosen, buy online and you will receive your insurance certificate instantly.
What should travel insurance for Dubai typically cover?
Comprehensive travel insurance for Dubai should cover medical expenses, emergency evacuation, personal liability, lost or stolen baggage, and trip cancellation. Make sure your policy also provides coverage for sports or activities you plan to do. Review exclusions relevant to Dubai, including pre-existing conditions and travel to nearby high-risk regions.
Are medical costs expensive for travellers in Dubai?
Medical treatment in Dubai’s private hospitals is of a high standard, but costs can be substantial if you are uninsured. Payment is usually required upfront, and a normal hospital stay can easily exceed AUD 10,000. Adequate insurance is strongly advised to avoid expensive out-of-pocket payments in case of emergencies.
When should I buy travel insurance for my trip to Dubai?
You should buy travel insurance as soon as you book your flights or accommodation. Early purchase means you are protected against unexpected cancellations, delays, or emergencies before and during your trip. Buying insurance well in advance gives the best value and widest protection for your travels to Dubai.
Is my credit card insurance enough for a trip to Dubai?
Credit card travel insurance may offer basic protection, but it usually comes with low limits and many exclusions. The coverage may not extend to activities such as quad biking or local medical evacuation. For comprehensive coverage, always check the policy terms or purchase additional dedicated travel insurance for Dubai.
