- The Best adventure Travel Insurance Plans
- What is adventure travel insurance?
- How much does adventure travel insurance cost?
- What does adventure travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of adventure travel insurance
- Why take out adventure travel insurance?
- How to Choose the Right adventure Travel Insurance
- Do my current insurance policies cover adventure travel insurance?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
adventure travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Adventure travel insurance covers high-risk activities and sports that standard travel insurance policies typically exclude.
2. Price: For a one-week trip to Europe, expect to pay between 280 and 420 AED for this insurance.
3. Coverage: It typically covers medical emergencies, rescue, and equipment, but excludes pre-existing conditions and professional sports competitions.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: UAE bank cards and health plans like DHA or ADNIC rarely cover high-risk adventure activities abroad.
5. Tips: Verify your specific activities are listed and check for high medical evacuation and search and rescue limits.
6. Other useful info: In the UAE, adventure coverage is often an add-on to a standard travel insurance policy.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the UAE, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best adventure travel insurance.
The Best adventure Travel Insurance Plans
Here is a selection of the best adventure travel insurance plans for UAE residents in 2025.
These insurers are chosen for their high medical coverage limits, low deductibles and simplified conditions, providing robust support for trips involving high-risk sports and activities.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 740,000 AED | 185 AED |
|
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 462,500 AED | 185 AED |
|
| Tourist Card | 555,000 AED | 370 AED |
|
| World Travel | 740,000 AED | 275 AED |
|
| Globe Partner | 370,000 AED | 185 AED |
|
| Globe Traveller | 462,500 AED | 185 AED |
|
- Wide range of adventure sports included.
- Comprehensive equipment protection.
- 24/7 rescue and support hotline.
- Fast digital claims process.
- Coverage for organised group activities.
- Multilingual emergency response.
- Search and rescue benefit.
- Equipment reimbursement provided.
- Upfront payment for medical costs.
- Helicopter rescue coverage.
- WhatsApp and mobile app support.
- Specialist in extreme sports trips.
- High limits for search and rescue operations.
- Professional guide coverage.
- Wide acceptance for sports visas.
- Multilingual assistance service.
- Quick settlement of claims.
- Covers most amateur and club sports.
- Equipment damage included.
- Direct line for emergency help.
- Designed for longer adventure trips.
- Local and international activity coverage.
- Premium stability for older travelers.
- 24/7 global support access.
The best adventure travel insurance depends on your activities and destinations. Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find and subscribe to the option that fits your needs.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat is adventure travel insurance?
Adventure travel insurance is specialized coverage for UAE residents who participate in high-risk activities or extreme sports while traveling.
This insurance protects against financial losses from accidents, injuries, emergency evacuation, or equipment damage during activities such as desert safaris, mountain climbing, scuba diving, or skiing.
Adventure travel insurance is essential because standard travel insurance usually excludes these high-risk activities and may not cover related incidents.
It is sometimes called extreme sports or high-risk activity insurance and is distinct from regular travel insurance due to its focus on adventure exposure.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out adventure travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in the United Arab Emirates:
- When you practice extreme sports like skiing, diving, or mountaineering.
- If your trip involves remote areas with limited medical access.
- For activities requiring potential search and rescue operations, like trekking.
- When traveling with expensive or specialized sports equipment.
- If your standard UAE insurance excludes high-risk activities.
- When joining an organized adventure tour or expedition abroad.
How much does adventure travel insurance cost?
On average, adventure travel insurance costs between 5% and 8% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost (AED) | Indicative price per person (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week of skiing and snowboarding in the Alps | 5,000 | 280 to 420 |
| 2 weeks trekking and mountaineering in Nepal | 8,500 | 520 to 780 |
| 10 days of bungee jumping and rafting in New Zealand | 6,500 | 380 to 570 |
| 3 weeks multi-activity adventure tour in South America | 12,000 | 650 to 980 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your adventure travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: the cost increases with each additional day spent abroad.
- destination: trips to remote areas or high-cost medical regions raise the premium.
- traveller’s age: older travelers typically pay a higher rate.
- level of coverage: policies with broader adventure activity lists, higher medical and evacuation limits, or lower deductibles cost more.
- selected options: extra coverage for adventure equipment, search and rescue, or specific extreme sports increases the price.
What does adventure travel insurance cover?
Adventure travel insurance is designed for UAE residents who plan to participate in high-risk activities or extreme sports during their trips. It extends standard travel coverage to address specific risks faced while engaging in adventures both within the UAE and abroad.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Reimburses non-refundable adventure trip costs cancelled for covered reasons. | Choose a minimum AED 7,500 cover, with deductible not over AED 100. Change of mind, poorly documented reasons, and pre-existing health issues are not covered. |
| 🧗 Activity-specific cover | Protection for injuries or accidents during listed adventure sports and activities. | Coverage should match your chosen activities, ideally AED 185,000+, and low deductibles. Unlicensed operators and professional competitions are almost always excluded. |
| 🎒 Adventure equipment cover | Compensation for damaged, lost, or stolen sports equipment during your trip. | At least AED 7,500 cover is advised, avoid deductibles above AED 100. Negligent storage and normal wear and tear are excluded. |
| 🚁 Emergency evacuation | Pays for rescue, including helicopter or ambulance evacuation from difficult terrain. | Look for a minimum of AED 185,000 cover and low deductible. Self-inflicted injuries, illegal activities, and non-medical evacuations are excluded. |
| 🏥 Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Covers urgent treatment for injuries or illness during adventure activities. | No less than AED 250,000 cover, deductible under AED 100. Injuries from alcohol, drugs, or training for professional sports are excluded. |
| 🚑 Search and rescue | Covers costs if a search operation is needed for your rescue in remote locations. | A minimum of AED 18,500 cover is wise, low deductible recommended. Negligent actions, false alarms, and unnecessary rescue costs are excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental treatment | Pays for urgent dental care due to accidents linked to adventure activities. | AED 1,850+ recommended, low deductible important. Routine dental care and cosmetic or planned procedures are excluded. |
| 🧍♂️ Personal accident | Lump sum for permanent disability or accidental death from a covered sport. | At least AED 37,000 is essential, zero deductible is best. Professional competitions and suicide are excluded. |
| 🪪 Personal liability | Pays compensation for accidental injury or damage you cause during adventure activities. | At least AED 100,000 cover with deductible below AED 200. Damage to rented equipment, intentional acts, and business-related incidents are excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refunds for unused travel bookings if adventure is cut short due to a covered risk. | AED 5,000 minimum advisable, keep deductible below AED 100. Excludes voluntary returns or non-serious reasons. |
Change of mind, poorly documented reasons, and pre-existing health issues are not covered.
Unlicensed operators and professional competitions are almost always excluded.
Negligent storage and normal wear and tear are excluded.
Self-inflicted injuries, illegal activities, and non-medical evacuations are excluded.
Injuries from alcohol, drugs, or training for professional sports are excluded.
Negligent actions, false alarms, and unnecessary rescue costs are excluded.
Routine dental care and cosmetic or planned procedures are excluded.
Professional competitions and suicide are excluded.
Damage to rented equipment, intentional acts, and business-related incidents are excluded.
Excludes voluntary returns or non-serious reasons.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the adventure travel insurance best suited to your activities and destination, easily compare plans on HelloSafe.
The conditions of adventure travel insurance
Adventure travel insurance applies only when specific conditions are followed before and during your high-risk activities and trips.
- Timing of purchase: you must buy the policy before leaving the UAE and before starting any adventure activities.
- Residency status: coverage is available to UAE residents and may require proof of residency at the time of application.
- Declared activities: all planned adventure sports and activities must be declared and explicitly included in the policy.
- Trip duration and coverage period: insurance is valid only for the exact dates stated in your contract and not beyond the permitted trip length.
- Certified operators: activities must be conducted with licensed, professional operators for coverage to apply.
- Medical and health declaration: you must disclose known medical conditions, as some insurers exclude high-risk applicants.
- Geographic and activity limits: travel to prohibited destinations or participation in unlisted or professional-level activities is excluded.
- Claim documentation: all claims for accidents, equipment loss, or evacuation require original supporting documents such as receipts, activity waivers, and medical reports.
Watch out!
A common mistake for UAE travellers is assuming their premium credit card insurance covers adventure sports. Most of these policies explicitly exclude activities like skiing, diving, or mountaineering. Always purchase a dedicated adventure policy to ensure you're truly covered for your high-risk activities.
Why take out adventure travel insurance?
An adventure trip often exposes travelers to higher risks and unexpected incidents, which can lead to expensive medical emergencies in foreign countries.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to 100%, according to policy |
| Medical repatriation |
| Typically full cost if medically necessary |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to 100% within benefit limit |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Usually full reimbursement |
| Consultation and treatment for intestinal infection |
| Up to policy maximum |
- Europe: AED 1,100
- North America: AED 2,200
- Asia: AED 550
- Europe: AED 37,000
- North America: AED 55,500
- Asia: AED 27,750
- Europe: AED 27,750
- North America: AED 74,000
- Asia: AED 11,100
- Europe: AED 1,850
- North America: AED 3,700
- Asia: AED 920
- Europe: AED 740
- North America: AED 1,480
- Asia: AED 370
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
Adventure travel insurance may include additional valuable benefits such as search and rescue, cover for adventure equipment, trip cancellation, personal accident, and emergency evacuation. These guarantees are especially useful for active travelers in high-risk environments.
Good to know
Your standard or bank insurance won't cover a skiing accident or mountain rescue. Avoid unexpected bills of over AED 55,000 for helicopter rescue or repatriation. A specialized policy from an insurer like Mondialcare ensures your adventure remains a positive memory, not a financial burden.
How to Choose the Right adventure Travel Insurance
Coverage for adventure travel insurance varies widely depending on reimbursement ceilings, excluded activities, and medical limits. For UAE residents, comparing these criteria ensures your insurance matches the risks of your planned adventure activities.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Adventure activities cause more severe injuries, leading to high medical and evacuation costs. | For trips involving risk, choose at least AED 370,000 for medical and evacuation coverage. |
| 📉 Deductible | High deductibles can impact access to urgent medical care after a serious adventure accident. | Keep deductibles low, especially when engaging in activities with a higher accident rate. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Specific activities, professional competitions, and operator licensing affect your cover. | Read terms closely and disclose all activities to ensure valid adventure activity cover. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Some insurers exclude travelers over a certain age from adventure activity coverage. | Check upper age limits and senior rules before buying adventure insurance for your trip. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Solo, family, or group adventure travel affects coverage needs, especially for equipment. | Families or groups should look for policies including group rescue, equipment, and liability. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Adventure policies may only cover trips within certain durations, often up to 30 or 90 days. | Verify your insurance period covers the entire adventure trip without gaps or restrictions. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Remote or high-altitude areas may increase evacuation and medical expenses. | Select policies with worldwide or remote region rescue coverage for all planned areas. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Standard UAE health or bank card insurance rarely covers adventure or extreme sports risks. | Do not rely on general health or card insurance for adventure travel outside the UAE. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Risk exposure varies by sport, and not all activities are automatically covered. | Explicitly check each planned adventure activity is included in your policy coverage. |
Do my current insurance policies cover adventure travel insurance?
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurance plans, such as credit card insurance or public health insurance, can provide you with adventure travel insurance, but unfortunately this is often not enough.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Adventure travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Dubai Health Authority) | Never | Emergency treatment in UAE or limited GCC, max: AED 37,000. No overseas adventure sports, evacuation, search and rescue, or equipment coverage for high-risk travel. | Travel insurance provides up to AED 740,000 for medical, rescue, and covers a wide range of adventure activities everywhere. |
| Private health insurance (ADNIC, AXA Gulf) | Almost Never | Basic emergency medical abroad, max: AED 18,500–55,500, no extreme sports. No search and rescue, no equipment cover, no high-risk accident or remote evacuation benefits for adventure activities. | Travel insurance covers all major adventure sports and emergencies up to AED 740,000, including rescue and gear replacement. |
| Classic credit card (Emirates NBD Standard, ADCB Classic) | Never | Basic medical and accident cover, max: AED 14,800–18,500. No adventure equipment, search and rescue, evacuation, or high-risk sports coverage, even for short trips. | Travel insurance reimburses up to AED 740,000 for adventure emergencies, accidents, rescue, and personal equipment worldwide. |
| Premium credit card (FAB World Elite, HSBC Premier) | Limited coverage | Standard medical, accident, and baggage, some evacuation, max: AED 27,750–55,500. No mountain rescue, activity-specific cover, or gear protection for adventure trips abroad. | Travel insurance ensures up to AED 740,000 reimbursement for adventure risks, including search and rescue, gear, and evacuation. |
No overseas adventure sports, evacuation, search and rescue, or equipment coverage for high-risk travel.
No search and rescue, no equipment cover, no high-risk accident or remote evacuation benefits for adventure activities.
No adventure equipment, search and rescue, evacuation, or high-risk sports coverage, even for short trips.
No mountain rescue, activity-specific cover, or gear protection for adventure trips abroad.
Expert advice
Be aware that bank cards and health insurance often exclude trip interruptions for family emergencies. Read your policy's conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to the trip.
FAQ
Is adventure travel insurance mandatory?
Adventure travel insurance is mandatory when traveling to countries or booking tours that specifically require proof of coverage for high-risk activities, such as mountaineering expeditions in Nepal or specialized ski resorts in Europe. Even when not compulsory, it is highly recommended, as standard policies often exclude extreme sports. For example, a desert safari with dune bashing could lead to costly injuries not covered by regular travel insurance.
When is it recommended to purchase adventure travel insurance?
The best time to purchase adventure travel insurance is immediately after booking your adventure trip or activities. Early purchase ensures you are covered in case of last-minute cancellations, medical emergencies, or equipment loss before your departure, helping you avoid unexpected expenses and giving you peace of mind.
How do I purchase adventure travel insurance?
Start by comparing specialist policies on HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the best match for your activities. Carefully check guarantees and exclusions, making sure all your planned adventure sports are covered. Then, purchase your policy securely online and receive your insurance certificate instantly by email.
Can I purchase adventure travel insurance after booking my activities?
Yes, you can still purchase adventure travel insurance after booking your activities, provided you do so before you start your trip. However, it is best to arrange coverage as soon as possible to benefit from trip cancellation and pre-existing medical cover, as well as to avoid missing out on options due to insurer restrictions.
How do I make a claim with adventure travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance hotline or submit your claim online. Provide all necessary documents, such as medical reports, receipts, or police statements for equipment loss. Most UAE insurers offer swift digital claims processes for adventure policies, making it easier to get reimbursed quickly abroad.
Does adventure travel insurance cover rescue and evacuation?
Comprehensive adventure travel insurance will cover rescue operations and emergency medical evacuation, including helicopter rescues in remote locations such as mountains or deserts. Always check the policy to ensure coverage limits are sufficient for your destinations and that exclusions do not apply to the specific activities you plan.
Is rented or personal sports equipment covered under adventure travel insurance?
Many adventure travel insurance policies include cover for lost, stolen, or damaged sports equipment, whether rented or owned, subject to specified limits. To ensure your gear is protected, review your policy’s equipment coverage carefully and keep all rental or purchase receipts in case you need to make a claim.
Is adventure travel insurance mandatory?
Adventure travel insurance is mandatory when traveling to countries or booking tours that specifically require proof of coverage for high-risk activities, such as mountaineering expeditions in Nepal or specialized ski resorts in Europe. Even when not compulsory, it is highly recommended, as standard policies often exclude extreme sports. For example, a desert safari with dune bashing could lead to costly injuries not covered by regular travel insurance.
When is it recommended to purchase adventure travel insurance?
The best time to purchase adventure travel insurance is immediately after booking your adventure trip or activities. Early purchase ensures you are covered in case of last-minute cancellations, medical emergencies, or equipment loss before your departure, helping you avoid unexpected expenses and giving you peace of mind.
How do I purchase adventure travel insurance?
Start by comparing specialist policies on HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the best match for your activities. Carefully check guarantees and exclusions, making sure all your planned adventure sports are covered. Then, purchase your policy securely online and receive your insurance certificate instantly by email.
Can I purchase adventure travel insurance after booking my activities?
Yes, you can still purchase adventure travel insurance after booking your activities, provided you do so before you start your trip. However, it is best to arrange coverage as soon as possible to benefit from trip cancellation and pre-existing medical cover, as well as to avoid missing out on options due to insurer restrictions.
How do I make a claim with adventure travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance hotline or submit your claim online. Provide all necessary documents, such as medical reports, receipts, or police statements for equipment loss. Most UAE insurers offer swift digital claims processes for adventure policies, making it easier to get reimbursed quickly abroad.
Does adventure travel insurance cover rescue and evacuation?
Comprehensive adventure travel insurance will cover rescue operations and emergency medical evacuation, including helicopter rescues in remote locations such as mountains or deserts. Always check the policy to ensure coverage limits are sufficient for your destinations and that exclusions do not apply to the specific activities you plan.
Is rented or personal sports equipment covered under adventure travel insurance?
Many adventure travel insurance policies include cover for lost, stolen, or damaged sports equipment, whether rented or owned, subject to specified limits. To ensure your gear is protected, review your policy’s equipment coverage carefully and keep all rental or purchase receipts in case you need to make a claim.
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