Travel insurance policies in the UAE do not cover pre-existing medical conditions, according to industry executives. Therefore, tourists are advised to opt for specialized health insurance policies that provide coverage for their specific health issues. Faisal Abbas, the vice president of Continental Group, emphasized that travel insurance policies only cover emergency medical expenses, usually starting from Dh200,000. Avinash Babur, the CEO of Insurancemarket.ae, reiterated that pre-existing conditions are universally excluded from coverage in standard inbound travel insurance policies.
Tourists with pre-existing conditions have limited options as standard travel insurance policies do not cover these conditions. They may need to seek specialized health insurance that includes coverage for their specific health issues, which can be arranged through international health insurance providers or specialized plans from their home country. The cost for these specialized policies can vary widely based on the severity and nature of the pre-existing condition, as well as the overall coverage limits of the policy. It is essential for tourists to consult with insurance providers in their home country to ensure that the coverage meets their specific needs.
Inbound UAE tourists can expect travel insurance premiums to vary based on the duration of their stay. Premiums start at Dh45 for trips up to a month and can go up to Dh200. For longer stays exceeding a month, premiums start at Dh80 and can reach up to Dh300. The cost of travel insurance for tourists above the age of 70 is 3 to 4 times higher than for younger individuals. Demand for inbound travel insurance is growing, with a 10% increase observed between the first and second quarters of 2024, particularly during the UAE’s summer months.
It is crucial for tourists planning to visit the UAE to purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, accidents, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances. Given the exclusion of pre-existing conditions in standard policies, those with existing health issues should consider securing a specialized policy that addresses their specific medical needs. Moin ur Rehman, the executive director of Unitrust Insurance Broker, emphasized the importance of having comprehensive travel insurance to avoid financial trouble due to high hospitalization costs in the UAE. Ultimately, visitors should have comprehensive health insurance from their home countries that includes elective treatments and pre-existing conditions.
