Tourists visiting the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will soon be able to secure health insurance alongside their visa application, according to a recent announcement.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) revealed that this initiative is part of its “transformative projects” aimed at enhancing traveler safety. The new system is designed to streamline the process of obtaining health insurance by integrating it into a digital platform that will manage the pricing and issuance of coverage from leading insurance providers in the UAE.
Ramzi Ghurani, Managing Partner at Petra Insurance Brokers, emphasized the importance of this development. He stated, “Providing insurance coverage for all travelers ensures they are protected in the event of an unforeseen medical emergency. This approach also alleviates the financial burden on government and private hospitals, which would otherwise have to cover emergency costs for visitors.”
Ghurani also noted that many travelers are often unaware of the need for health insurance when abroad. “It’s surprising how many people overlook this aspect of their travel plans. For those more knowledgeable, it’s crucial to verify the extent of coverage provided and consider additional private insurance if a more comprehensive policy is desired.”
The new automated system will offer visitors a range of insurance options from various providers, catering to different travel needs. Additionally, the UAE Cabinet has recently expanded its mandatory employer-funded health insurance scheme to encompass the entire country, extending beyond Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
