The Best Travel Insurance Plans for United Arab Emirates in 2025
- The best travel insurance plans for UAE
- Is it currently safe to travel to UAE?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter</b> UAE?
- Why take out travel insurance for the UAE?
- What should travel insurance for UAE cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for UAE
- How to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to UAE
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in UAE?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for UAE: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for the UAE covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost personal belongings.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance is not mandatory for Australians but is strongly recommended due to high potential costs.
3. Healthcare cost: Healthcare is excellent but very expensive; a hospital stay can easily exceed AUD $1,000 per night.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for the UAE typically costs between AUD $40 and AUD $90.
5. Good to know: Be aware of the UAE's strict local laws, including those on dress code and public behaviour.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers 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 the UAE.
The best travel insurance plans for UAE
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | AUD 1M | Our recommendation for comprehensive travel to UAE. - very high medical cover - evacuation included - wide service network |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | AUD 1M | A robust choice with strong guarantees for all trips. - 24/7 medical helpline - repatriation cover - no excess fees |
| Tourist Card | AUD 500K | Practical contract with secure coverage for UAE. - reliable medical cover - international support - attractive rate |
| Travel Pass Monde | AUD 700K | Good value policy with robust global support. - solid hospital limit - repatriation cover - extensive area covered |
| Globe Partner | AUD 300K | A suitable solution for standard stays in UAE. - medical costs reimbursed - repatriation included - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | AUD 500K | Ideal for travellers on short or low-risk stays. - essential health guarantees - clear limits - efficient reimbursements |
- very high medical cover
- evacuation included
- wide service network
- 24/7 medical helpline
- repatriation cover
- no excess fees
- reliable medical cover
- international support
- attractive rate
- solid hospital limit
- repatriation cover
- extensive area covered
- medical costs reimbursed
- repatriation included
- civil liability
- essential health guarantees
- clear limits
- efficient reimbursements
Is it currently safe to travel to UAE?
As of June 2025, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in UAE, mainly due to the persistent threat of terrorism across the region.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: terrorist threats are ongoing in UAE, including in major urban centres like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Security measures can lead to incidents such as abrupt police checks or tightly controlled public gatherings.
- Health risks: there is an increased risk of communicable diseases after recent flooding, with sporadic cases of dengue and hepatitis A. Hospital care is good in major cities but can be costly, and no specific vaccinations are compulsory.
- Legal constraints: travellers must note strict laws, including a zero-tolerance policy on drugs, severe penalties for public displays of affection, and a ban on photographing government sites. Carrying certain prescription medications requires prior approval.
- Cultural norms: modest dress is required in public areas, particularly in Sharjah and Ajman, where covering shoulders and knees is strictly enforced. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in UAE.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter UAE?
No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for Australians entering UAE on a visa-on-arrival or short stay.
However, travel insurance is strongly recommended by both Australian and UAE authorities. Medical care in UAE’s private facilities can be extremely expensive, and your policy should cover emergency treatment, hospitalisation, and medical repatriation.
According to our data, 80% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to UAE. This high rate is explained by the expensive health system and the real costs travellers face even for minor incidents.
Why take out travel insurance for the UAE?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to UAE.
Medical costs in UAE are among the highest in the world. Non-residents usually need to use private hospitals such as American Hospital Dubai, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi or Mediclinic City Hospital in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Private care is very modern but can be extremely expensive and full payment is often required before treatment.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and repatriation to Australia in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in UAE.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at American Hospital Dubai | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalised 48 hours after contracting an infection | 12,000 AED (5,000 AUD) | Up to 500,000 AUD per trip |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 6,500 AED (2,700 AUD) | Up to 500,000 AUD per trip |
| I need to be repatriated | 90,000 AED (38,000 AUD) | Up to 500,000 AUD per trip |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 32,000 AED (13,500 AUD) | Up to 500,000 AUD per trip |
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 should travel insurance for UAE cover?
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for UAE.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital care, consultations, prescribed medicines, and emergency room services. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least AUD 500,000 for UAE. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation and repatriation | Pays for air ambulance, medical repatriation to Australia, and transport of remains if needed. Choose a limit of at least AUD 300,000. |
| 🏨 Hospitalisation | Covers room, tests, surgery and hospital stays in quality private clinics like American Hospital Dubai. A minimum of AUD 250,000 is advisable for inpatient costs. |
| 💊 Outpatient care and medication | Covers GP or specialist visits, x-rays, prescription medication, and urgent treatments. Pick a policy that covers up to AUD 50,000 for all outpatient services. |
| 🛄 Lost, damaged, or stolen baggage | Compensates for your lost, delayed, or stolen luggage and valuables. Aim for at least AUD 5,000 in baggage protection for Dubai. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation/interruption | Reimburses prepaid hotels, flights, and activities if you must cancel or interrupt your trip. We recommend at least AUD 10,000 for this coverage. |
| 🚗 Personal liability | Pays for your legal costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage property abroad. Select a policy providing a minimum of AUD 1,000,000 liability coverage. |
| ⏱️ Travel delay and missed connection | Offers money back for delays or missing a flight or cruise due to events beyond your control. Choose a limit of AUD 2,000 for trip delay or interruption benefits. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least AUD 500,000 for UAE.
Choose a limit of at least AUD 300,000.
A minimum of AUD 250,000 is advisable for inpatient costs.
Pick a policy that covers up to AUD 50,000 for all outpatient services.
Aim for at least AUD 5,000 in baggage protection for Dubai.
We recommend at least AUD 10,000 for this coverage.
Select a policy providing a minimum of AUD 1,000,000 liability coverage.
Choose a limit of AUD 2,000 for trip delay or interruption benefits.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often comes with low limits and many exclusions. For full protection, it is best to choose a trusted insurer with comprehensive coverage. Compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for UAE
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | AUD 45 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | AUD 80 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | AUD 120 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | AUD 260 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
G'day! When sorting your travel insurance for the UAE, the price will vary. Key factors include your age, the length of your stay, your chosen level of cover, any pre-existing medical conditions, and extras like cancellation cover. Keeping these in mind is crucial for finding the right policy to protect you from high medical costs and other travel mishaps.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to Pay Less for Your Travel Insurance to UAE
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to UAE while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🛫 Travel dates | Premiums depend on trip duration and season, especially during high-tourism periods in UAE. | Adjust your trip dates to avoid peak travel months, as insurance costs are often lower outside holidays and popular events. |
| 👥 Number of travellers | Group policies may attract discounts and family coverage can be more cost-effective for the UAE. | Opt for family or group policies if travelling with others, as these deals can lower individual rates for the same level of cover. |
| 🔞 Traveller's age | Age significantly impacts premium levels for UAE, especially under most global insurers. | If over 62, compare plans because Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, which may save you money. |
| ⚕️ Level of coverage | Basic care is expensive in UAE, but overinsuring for unnecessary add-ons increases your premium. | Choose only relevant coverage based on your activities in UAE, to avoid paying for extra features you do not need. |
| 📍 Destination specifics | Some areas in UAE present higher medical or legal risks, which can impact insurance rates. | Avoid high-risk regions as this can keep your premium lower, provided your travel plans allow flexibility in the UAE. |
| 🛒 Where you buy | Brokers, banks, and direct insurers offer different prices and online platforms in AU can lower costs. | Compare online platforms for discounts and better deals unavailable at traditional travel agencies or banks. |
| 🕒 Advance purchase | Early purchase ensures coverage for cancellations and can lock in cheaper deals for the UAE. | Purchase as soon as you book – waiting until the last minute often leads to higher premiums and less choice. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in UAE?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing insurance, such as your private health, public health, or even credit card coverage, can truly protect you during a trip to UAE. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient outside Australia. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in UAE? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare) | Never | No coverage outside Australia; excludes all medical care or emergency repatriation | Travel insurance covers up to AUD 1 million for medical care, repatriation, and 24/7 emergency assistance in the UAE. |
| Private health insurance (Bupa, Medibank, NIB) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical costs may be covered after return, generally excludes repatriation or evacuation | Travel insurance covers up to AUD 1 million for overseas medical expenses plus baggage, trip delay, and personal liability. |
| Classic credit card (ANZ First, Westpac Low Rate) | Limited coverage | Basic accident cover, possible medical under AUD 20,000, typically no baggage or trip cancellation | Travel insurance covers medical up to AUD 1 million, baggage losses, trip cancellation, and real local support. |
| Premium credit card (ANZ Platinum, NAB Signature, Westpac Altitude Black) | Limited coverage | Medical expenses up to AUD 140,000, limited for delays and loss; excess often applies | Travel insurance covers hospital fees and medical bills up to AUD 1 million, plus trip cancellation, without large excess. |
Example
During a Dubai stopover, a tourist's severe heatstroke resulted in a AU$45,000 ICU bill. Their NAB Platinum card's included insurance only paid AU$5,000. Without a dedicated travel policy, they faced a AU$40,000 debt for a common risk in the UAE's extreme heat, as health insurance isn't mandatory.
Expert advice
Don't assume your bank card or health fund covers you for everything, like trip cancellation for a family emergency. Read the policy details carefully to avoid costly surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to take out dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to UAE?
Australian passport holders do not need to arrange a visa before travelling to UAE. You will receive a free 30-day multiple-entry visa on arrival in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with a 10-day grace period. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. Emergency passports are not accepted, so ensure your travel documents are up to date.
How do I purchase travel insurance for UAE?
Start by comparing different plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the coverage limits and exclusions, paying attention to UAE-specific needs such as high medical costs and local law compliance. Buy your selected policy online and, once payment is complete, you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
What medical expenses are covered by travel insurance in the UAE?
A standard travel insurance policy for the UAE typically covers hospitalisation, surgery and emergency treatment, with limits often up to AUD 1,000,000 or more. Some policies also pay for medical repatriation if you need to return to Australia for care. Always check that pre-existing conditions or risky activities, such as extreme sports, are not excluded.
Are travel insurance policies for UAE valid for stopovers or multi-city trips?
Yes, most Australian-issued travel insurance policies for UAE allow coverage for stopovers and visits to multiple cities within the Emirates, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah. If your trip includes additional countries, select a multi-destination plan. Confirm the policy’s regional scope, as cover and limits may vary for each location visited.
How much does travel insurance for UAE typically cost for Australians?
Travel insurance pricing for UAE depends on your age, travel duration and level of cover, but short holiday plans usually range from AUD 70 to AUD 220 per person for two weeks. Higher premiums may apply for seniors or extended stays. Always consider extra options such as adventure sports or higher baggage limits if they suit your travel needs.
What should I look out for when selecting travel insurance for the UAE?
Check the medical coverage limit, particularly as private hospital costs in UAE can be very high. Look for cover for trip cancellation, baggage loss, and personal liability, with clear information about excluded activities. Review the policy’s requirements if bringing prescription medication, as the UAE enforces strict drug regulations, even for common medicines.
Do I need a visa to travel to UAE?
Australian passport holders do not need to arrange a visa before travelling to UAE. You will receive a free 30-day multiple-entry visa on arrival in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with a 10-day grace period. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. Emergency passports are not accepted, so ensure your travel documents are up to date.
How do I purchase travel insurance for UAE?
Start by comparing different plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the coverage limits and exclusions, paying attention to UAE-specific needs such as high medical costs and local law compliance. Buy your selected policy online and, once payment is complete, you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
What medical expenses are covered by travel insurance in the UAE?
A standard travel insurance policy for the UAE typically covers hospitalisation, surgery and emergency treatment, with limits often up to AUD 1,000,000 or more. Some policies also pay for medical repatriation if you need to return to Australia for care. Always check that pre-existing conditions or risky activities, such as extreme sports, are not excluded.
Are travel insurance policies for UAE valid for stopovers or multi-city trips?
Yes, most Australian-issued travel insurance policies for UAE allow coverage for stopovers and visits to multiple cities within the Emirates, such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah. If your trip includes additional countries, select a multi-destination plan. Confirm the policy’s regional scope, as cover and limits may vary for each location visited.
How much does travel insurance for UAE typically cost for Australians?
Travel insurance pricing for UAE depends on your age, travel duration and level of cover, but short holiday plans usually range from AUD 70 to AUD 220 per person for two weeks. Higher premiums may apply for seniors or extended stays. Always consider extra options such as adventure sports or higher baggage limits if they suit your travel needs.
What should I look out for when selecting travel insurance for the UAE?
Check the medical coverage limit, particularly as private hospital costs in UAE can be very high. Look for cover for trip cancellation, baggage loss, and personal liability, with clear information about excluded activities. Review the policy’s requirements if bringing prescription medication, as the UAE enforces strict drug regulations, even for common medicines.
