An increasing number of UAE residents are buying travel insurance when travelling to their home countries. With higher medical expenses, flight issues, and risks of lost baggage, even familiar trips now require reliable protection and peace of mind.
Summer holidays are on! Just like India, many other countries also see a surge in travel during these months. The UAE is no different. While people in the UAE travel abroad almost every year, often to their home countries, a notable shift has been observed in recent years. There has been a noticeable increase in the number of people purchasing travel insurance. Studies and reports have reflected these evolving travel insurance habits in the UAE.
So, what is travel insurance, and why are UAE residents inclined towards it? Read on as we discuss all this and more.
Understanding Travel Insurance
Travel insurance comes under general insurance. It helps cover unexpected expenses that can arise while you're travelling. While travel insurance is available for both domestic and international travel, people generally opt for it when going to a foreign country. From missing a flight in Dubai to losing luggage in Mumbai or getting injured in Abu Dhabi, a comprehensive travel insurance plan will always come to your rescue. It can alleviate financial stress and provide you with the much-needed support when things go wrong on your trip.
While different travel insurance policies offer different coverage, generally, the following expenses are covered under a regular plan:
- Medical emergencies that may require hospitalisation
- Travel inconveniences
- Baggage-related troubles
- Loss of belongings
- Assistance and customer support.
Why More UAE Residents Opt for Travel Insurance When Visiting Their Home Country?
Travel insurance for UAE residents is becoming more important for several reasons. Analysts believe that this is due to a mix of practical concerns and changes in travel habits. Let’s take a look.
- People are becoming more aware.
Thanks to growing awareness, people are now more aware of unexpected risks, such as medical emergencies, flight delays, or baggage loss. Travellers today are more informed than ever before. They understand that while booking flights and hotels is important, preparing for what could go wrong is just as crucial. Rather than waiting for a disaster to happen, travellers prefer spending a little and securing themselves and their travel.
- Accidents can happen anywhere, anytime.
The trend is visible not only when people are going to a foreign land to explore and enjoy. Rather, even UAE residents and expats, when they go to their home country, ensure that they invest in suitable travel insurance. This is because accidents, flight cancellations, and other unexpected events can occur anywhere, at any time.
- Medical expenses are skyrocketing.
With global medical costs rising and travel disruptions becoming more common, insurance is no longer seen as an optional extra; it’s becoming a travel essential. Your travel insurance policy will typically cover you in case of hospitalisation.
- Travel insurance offers wide coverage.
Comprehensive travel insurance is an all-in-one plan that covers a wide range of travel-related issues. It typically includes 24/7 support to assist you in emergencies, whether you need a doctor, face a medical issue, or encounter a roadside problem. These plans typically offer reimbursement for cancelled or interrupted trips, flight delays, lost or delayed baggage, medical expenses, and even emergency evacuation if needed. It’s a convenient way to stay protected from multiple risks while travelling.
- An affordable way to safeguard yourself.
Getting hurt, falling ill, losing your passport, or causing damage to a third party can be worrisome enough. Imagine what would happen if this were to occur when you are far away from home. Apart from the mental trauma, all this can bring a big financial burden. Avoiding all this by paying a premium can often seem like a smart idea. Therefore, buying travel insurance for UAE residents is becoming popular.
- Buying travel insurance is easy.
Yes, buying travel insurance is crucial. However, the increasing number of people who feel inclined to do so can also be attributed to the ease and convenience of buying travel insurance online. It’s easier than ever to compare different plans online, read reviews, and find one that fits your travel needs and budget. Many platforms now allow users to buy a policy in just a few clicks, making the entire process hassle-free.
- Travel insurance is for everyone.
Whether you are travelling to your home country or going abroad for higher studies, whether you are a young entrepreneur or a senior citizen, travel insurance can be tailored to your specific needs. Most travel insurance plans allow customised coverage for individuals, families, and students.
To understand the types of travel insurance that you can opt for, read this detailed blog.
- Travellers want to travel in peace.
Travelling during the peak holiday season comes with its own set of challenges. These high-traffic periods often come with a higher chance of delays and cancellations. As a result, more expats and families are seeing the value in insuring their trips.
How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance?
It must be clear by now that travel insurance comes with a long list of benefits and advantages. However, when you set out to buy a policy, it might seem confusing at first. After all, there is a plethora of options available. Here’s how you can go ahead.
- Start by thinking about where you’re going and for how long. In many countries, having a travel insurance plan is mandatory.
- Counties in the USA and the UK, like those in other countries, have high medical costs, so it's essential to have strong health coverage.
- If you’re travelling to a place known for natural disasters or extreme weather conditions, you need to have adequate coverage for delays, trip interruptions, and cancellations.
- Keep in mind that generally, travel insurance plans don’t cover high-risk activities. If you have such a plan, please contact your insurer.
- Understand the policy documents carefully to understand the inclusions and exclusions of the policy.
- Finally, remember, a cheaper plan might sound good, but could leave you uncovered in key areas.
Conclusion
Planning a trip is always exciting, but it can also be unpredictable. Imagine being ready for your dream holiday, with bags packed and your mood set, only to face a flight delay or have your luggage misplaced. Just like that, things can go off track.
That’s why travel insurance is so important, especially if you're travelling to your home country from the UAE. If you are a UAE resident planning to visit India, whether for a short break or a longer trip, having coverage can save you from unexpected expenses and provide you with peace of mind throughout your journey. There are several options that are available; you can take your time and make an informed decision.
Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.
Disclaimer: The content above is presented for informational purposes as a paid advertisement. The Tribune does not take responsibility for the accuracy, validity, or reliability of the claims, offers, or information provided by the advertiser. Readers are advised to conduct their own independent research and exercise due diligence before making any decisions based on its contents and not go by mode and source of publication
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