Planning a trip to Dubai? One question travelers often ask is — Is travel insurance mandatory for a Dubai tourist visa?
In short, yes — travel insurance is required when applying for a UAE or Dubai tourist visa, especially for visitors applying from outside the UAE. The UAE government made this requirement to ensure all travelers are covered in case of medical emergencies, flight cancellations, or other travel-related issues.
What the Law Says (2025 Update)
The UAE authorities and most visa processing centers (like VFS Global and airlines such as Emirates, Fly Dubai, and Etihad) now require valid travel medical insurance for all short-term and tourist visa applicants.
Your insurance must cover:
Medical emergencies (minimum USD 30,000 recommended)
COVID-19 or infectious disease treatment (most plans include this)
Hospitalization and repatriation
Without valid insurance, your visa may get delayed or even rejected.
Who Needs Travel Insurance?
You must have travel insurance if:
You are applying for a Dubai tourist visa (14, 30, or 90 days).
You are entering Dubai on a visit or transit visa.
You are traveling from countries that require a pre-approved UAE visa.
However, citizens from visa-on-arrival countries (like the UK, EU, or the US) are not legally required to show travel insurance — but it’s strongly recommended.
-Why Travel Insurance Is Important
Dubai is known for its world-class healthcare — but it’s also expensive.
A single emergency visit can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Having travel insurance protects you from:
Unexpected medical costs
Lost luggage or flight cancellations
Emergency evacuation or trip interruption
Tip: Choose a plan that clearly mentions valid for UAE travel.
How Much Does Travel Insurance for Dubai Cost?
The cost depends on your stay duration and coverage type.
Stay Duration Average Cost Coverage Type
14 Days $10–$20 Basic medical coverage
30 Days $25–$40 Standard coverage
90 Days $50–$70 Extended + COVID coverage
You can easily buy plans online through airlines, visa agents, or companies like AXA, Alliance, or Orient Insurance.
Required Documents for Visa + Insurance
When applying for your Dubai tourist visa, make sure you have:
Passport copy (valid for 6 months)
Return flight ticket
Hotel booking / invitation letter
Travel insurance certificate (PDF copy)
Upload it during your visa application — most agencies accept soft copies.
Final Verdict
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for most Dubai tourist visas in 2025.
It not only protects you financially but also ensures a smooth visa approval process. Even if you belong to a visa-on-arrival country, getting coverage is a smart move for peace of mind.
