- 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 take out travel insurance for Dubai?
- What Travel Insurance for Dubai Should Cover
- What is 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
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Dubai: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Dubai covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unexpected travel-related costs.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens but is highly recommended for financial protection.
3. Healthcare cost: Healthcare in Dubai is excellent but very expensive, costing over $1,000 per night for visitors.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Dubai typically costs between $30 and $70 for US travelers.
5. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers adventure activities like desert safaris or water sports if you plan them.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the United States, 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 | $1.1M USD | Our top pick for Dubai, with broad protection and high flexibility. - high medical ceiling - repatriation covered - well-detailed policy |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M USD | Strong support for Dubai trips, ensuring health cost protection and practical extras. - 24/7 helpline - trip cancellation - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $550k USD | Reliable choice for city travelers seeking essential medical cover. - good hospital coverage - fast emergency support - competitive price |
| Travel Pass Monde | $770k USD | Balanced solution with robust medical and practical incident coverage. - repatriation included - hospital expenses paid - wide destination scope |
| Globe Partner | $330k USD | Suitable for longer or multi-country stays, focused on core benefits. - overseas care covered - medical evacuation - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | $550k USD | Best for short or leisure trips to Dubai, with adequate limits and efficiency. - essential cover - simple claims process - capped medical ceiling |
- high medical ceiling
- repatriation covered
- well-detailed policy
- 24/7 helpline
- trip cancellation
- no deductible
- good hospital coverage
- fast emergency support
- competitive price
- repatriation included
- hospital expenses paid
- wide destination scope
- overseas care covered
- medical evacuation
- civil liability
- essential cover
- simple claims process
- capped medical ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Dubai?
As of June 2025, the U.S. Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Dubai due to persistent terrorism risks and strict local regulations.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: threats of terrorism and occasional missile or drone incidents persist, including in urban areas like Dubai Mall or Burj Khalifa. Large gatherings and popular tourist locations may be targets.
- Health risks: medical infrastructure is strong, but complex health emergencies may require evacuation. Air quality can deteriorate seasonally, posing risks for those with respiratory diseases.
- Legal constraints: Dubai enforces strict laws on drug possession, including residual amounts, and on social media use. Photographing military or government buildings can lead to serious penalties.
- Cultural norms: public displays of affection are restricted, and modest clothing is expected near religious areas. Drinking alcohol in public or during Ramadan is strictly prohibited.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the U.S. Department of State, 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 U.S. travelers entering Dubai for stays up to 30 days.
However, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance because health emergencies can be expensive, and U.S. Medicare is not accepted. Coverage for medical expenses, evacuation, and other incidents is important given regional risks and strict local laws.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Dubai owing to the high costs of medical care and heightened security environment.
Why take out travel insurance for Dubai?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Dubai.
Health care in Dubai is mainly provided through private clinics and hospitals, such as American Hospital Dubai and Mediclinic City Hospital. These facilities are modern and well-equipped but can charge high fees for consultations, tests, and treatment. Most travelers use private services, as public hospitals may be less accessible or have limited English support.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transportation, and emergency repatriation to the United States 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 | 16,000 AED (about 4,350 USD) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 8,500 AED (about 2,310 USD) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 125,000 AED (about 34,000 USD) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 38,000 AED (about 10,340 USD) | up to 100% |
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
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Pays for consultations, treatment, and medication after illness or accident. Recommended minimum reimbursement: 100,000 USD. |
| 🚑 Hospitalization | Covers hospital admission and medical procedures. Suggested coverage limit: 100,000 USD or more. |
| ✈️ Emergency evacuation | Covers air ambulance or transport to the US if you have a serious illness or injury. We recommend at least 150,000 USD. |
| 🧳 Lost baggage | Reimburses for loss, theft, or delay of luggage while traveling. We recommend: 1,500–2,500 USD. |
| 📅 Trip cancellation | Refunds pre-paid travel costs if you cancel for a covered reason. Coverage should equal the total value of your trip. |
| 🧾 Personal liability | Pays for damage or injury you cause unintentionally to others. Recommended minimum: 50,000 USD. |
| 🩺 Dental emergencies | Covers urgent dental care for pain or accident. Coverage limit: 1,000 USD. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Pays for meals and hotel if your trip is delayed for a covered reason. Recommended: 100 USD per day. |
Recommended minimum reimbursement: 100,000 USD.
Suggested coverage limit: 100,000 USD or more.
We recommend at least 150,000 USD.
We recommend: 1,500–2,500 USD.
Coverage should equal the total value of your trip.
Recommended minimum: 50,000 USD.
Coverage limit: 1,000 USD.
Recommended: 100 USD per day.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often has low maximum reimbursements and many coverage gaps. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer offering full coverage. Compare leading plans on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant proof of insurance.
What is the cost of travel insurance for Dubai?
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | 33 USD |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | 56 USD |
| 1 month | 35 years old | 80 USD |
| 1 month | 70 years old | 178 USD |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your policy will depend on several key factors, including your age, the duration of your stay, your destination, the level of coverage, and any optional add-ons like a 'cancel for any reason' benefit. It's essential to consider these variables to find a plan that provides adequate protection at a fair price.
💡 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 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 |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip duration | The cost of your premium depends on the length of your stay. Adjust dates to avoid overpayment. | Purchase insurance only for your actual travel dates so you do not pay extra for unnecessary coverage periods. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Dubai has quality healthcare, but emergency treatments can be costly if limits are too low. | Choose a policy with essential coverage and avoid extra features you do not need for a standard tourist visit. |
| 👨👩👦 Family/group plans | Many insurers offer group discounts, allowing families or groups to save compared to buying policies individually. | Select a group or family plan if traveling together for a lower price per person. |
| 🧑 Traveler's age | Premiums often increase with age, especially from 60. Rates can vary significantly by provider. | Check multiple offers as Heymondo does not increase prices for people over 62, making it a useful comparison. |
| 🌎 Multi-trip options | If traveling to Dubai more than once a year, an annual policy can be more economical. | Consider an annual multi-trip insurance if you plan multiple trips to Dubai during a twelve-month period. |
| 🚫 Deductible amount | A higher deductible reduces upfront cost, but means more out-of-pocket if you claim. | Pick a moderate deductible that balances a lower premium with what you can afford to pay during an emergency. |
| 🌐 Online purchase | Digital-first insurers often reduce administrative costs, resulting in better rates for travellers. | Buy your insurance online to benefit from lower administration fees and immediate policy delivery. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Dubai?
It is perfectly reasonable to question whether your American insurance—such as credit card insurance or U.S. public health programs—will cover you during a trip to Dubai. In most cases, coverage is limited or excludes key protections. Out-of-pocket costs abroad can be significant since U.S. Medicare does not apply. 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, Medicaid) | No, never | No benefits abroad, emergency and routine care not included | Travel insurance pays $100,000+ for overseas medical care and repatriation |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross, Aetna) | Yes, partly | May reimburse some urgent care with maximum limits up to $10,000, no evacuation or trip delay | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ and includes evacuation, trip delay, and more |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Citi Double Cash, Capital One Platinum) | Yes, partly | Medical up to $2,500–$5,000, no checked luggage, evacuation, or trip cancellation | Travel insurance includes $100,000+ in medical, as well as luggage and cancellation |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X) | Yes, partly | Medical up to $25,000–$50,000, limited trip delay/baggage loss, no extended hospital stay | Travel insurance reimburses $100,000+, trip cancellation, and 24/7 local assistance |
Example
During a desert safari in Dubai, Mark suffered a spinal injury. The emergency medical care and hospitalization cost $40,000. His American Express card's travel benefit only covered $10,000, and his US health plan deemed it 'out-of-network,' leaving him with a staggering $30,000 bill for his adventure gone wrong.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your current insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption for a relative’s illness or death, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to purchase a dedicated travel insurance policy tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Dubai?
No, U.S. citizens with a regular passport do not need a visa for tourist stays under 30 days in Dubai. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry. Make sure your passport does not have an “X” gender marker, as it will not be accepted in the UAE.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Dubai?
Start by comparing travel insurance options using the HelloSafe comparison tool to find the best price and coverage. Review policy guarantees and exclusions, paying special attention to what is relevant in Dubai, such as medical evacuation or personal liability. Purchase your selected policy online and you will receive a certificate for your records.
What specific risks should travel insurance cover for a trip to Dubai?
Travel insurance for Dubai should cover emergency medical care, evacuation, trip interruptions, and personal liability. Considering terrorism risks and strict local laws, it is also important to check the policy’s legal assistance options. Policies should specifically mention coverage in the United Arab Emirates.
Are healthcare services in Dubai expensive for travelers?
Healthcare in Dubai is of good quality but can be costly for uninsured travelers. An emergency room visit or brief hospitalization can easily exceed $500, and longer stays or specialized care often cost much more. Travel insurance can help manage and minimize these expenses.
Can I buy travel insurance for Dubai after starting my trip?
Travel insurance should ideally be purchased before your departure. Some insurers allow you to buy a policy after arriving, but coverage may be limited for pre-existing situations or early incidents. Always check start dates and coverage details when insuring yourself while already abroad.
What documentation is required to make a travel insurance claim in Dubai?
To make a claim, you usually need your insurance certificate, proof of travel, copies of medical or police reports, and original receipts for expenses. Your insurer will inform you if additional documents are necessary, and timely communication with the insurance company is essential for smooth claims processing.
Do I need a visa to travel to Dubai?
No, U.S. citizens with a regular passport do not need a visa for tourist stays under 30 days in Dubai. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry. Make sure your passport does not have an “X” gender marker, as it will not be accepted in the UAE.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Dubai?
Start by comparing travel insurance options using the HelloSafe comparison tool to find the best price and coverage. Review policy guarantees and exclusions, paying special attention to what is relevant in Dubai, such as medical evacuation or personal liability. Purchase your selected policy online and you will receive a certificate for your records.
What specific risks should travel insurance cover for a trip to Dubai?
Travel insurance for Dubai should cover emergency medical care, evacuation, trip interruptions, and personal liability. Considering terrorism risks and strict local laws, it is also important to check the policy’s legal assistance options. Policies should specifically mention coverage in the United Arab Emirates.
Are healthcare services in Dubai expensive for travelers?
Healthcare in Dubai is of good quality but can be costly for uninsured travelers. An emergency room visit or brief hospitalization can easily exceed $500, and longer stays or specialized care often cost much more. Travel insurance can help manage and minimize these expenses.
Can I buy travel insurance for Dubai after starting my trip?
Travel insurance should ideally be purchased before your departure. Some insurers allow you to buy a policy after arriving, but coverage may be limited for pre-existing situations or early incidents. Always check start dates and coverage details when insuring yourself while already abroad.
What documentation is required to make a travel insurance claim in Dubai?
To make a claim, you usually need your insurance certificate, proof of travel, copies of medical or police reports, and original receipts for expenses. Your insurer will inform you if additional documents are necessary, and timely communication with the insurance company is essential for smooth claims processing.
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