- The best domestic travel insurance plans
- What is domestic travel insurance?
- The price of domestic travel insurance
- What domestic travel insurance covers
- The conditions of domestic travel insurance
- Why take out domestic travel insurance?
- How to choose the right domestic travel insurance
- domestic Travel Insurance Coverage Under Your Current Policies
- FAQ
- On the same topic
domestic travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Domestic travel insurance covers unexpected events like medical emergencies and cancellations for trips within the UAE.
2. Price: A one-week domestic policy in the UAE typically costs between 50 and 150 AED per person.
3. Coverage: It typically covers medical emergencies and trip cancellation but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk adventure sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Bank cards and local health insurance (DHA, Daman) offer limited protection, often excluding trip cancellation costs.
5. Tips: Check for specific coverage like desert safari activities, heat-related illnesses, and emergency evacuation from remote areas.
6. Other useful info: Some insurers now offer coverage for extreme weather events and provide claims support via WhatsApp and apps.
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 UAE, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best domestic travel insurance.
The best domestic travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best domestic travel insurance plans available for residents of the UAE in 2025. These policies are among the best due to their high coverage limits, low deductibles and simplified terms, ensuring strong protection for domestic trips.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 91,750 AED | 275 AED |
|
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 91,750 AED | 275 AED |
|
| Tourist Card | 55,050 AED | 550 AED |
|
| World Travel | 73,400 AED | 367 AED |
|
| Globe Partner | 66,420 AED | 440 AED |
|
| Globe Traveller | 55,050 AED | 440 AED |
|
- Wide coverage for adventure sports.
- Fast digital claim process.
- Free emergency medical assistance.
- Covers trip cancellation and lost baggage.
- 24/7 multilingual support.
- Mobile app for policy management.
- Medical repatriation covered.
- Early reimbursement on accepted claims.
- WhatsApp assistance included.
- Coverage for adventure activities.
- Quick compensation for delays.
- Practical for local families.
- Upfront medical payment guarantee.
- Local hospital network.
- Coverage for extreme weather emergencies.
- Pre-travel information hotline.
- Digital claim submission.
- Support for evacuation in remote areas.
- Phone assistance available.
- Policy valid for all emirates.
- Long trip coverage up to 6 months.
- No premium increase based on age.
- Arabic and English hotline.
- Flexible extension option.
The best domestic travel insurance depends on your personal needs and trip type. You can use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find and subscribe to the plan that suits you best directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat is domestic travel insurance?
Domestic travel insurance is coverage that protects individuals while traveling within the United Arab Emirates.
It provides financial support for unexpected incidents such as medical emergencies, trip cancellation, or loss of baggage during journeys across the UAE’s seven emirates.
This insurance is tailored for both residents and visitors exploring destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the northern emirates.
Domestic insurance is sometimes confused with international plans, but it is limited to travel within UAE borders. It may also be called local travel insurance.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out domestic travel insurance is especially relevant if you are traveling within the United Arab Emirates:
- when your health plan has limited coverage in another emirate
- for adventure activities like desert safaris or mountain hiking
- if traveling to remote areas like Liwa or Hajar Mountains
- when you book expensive or non-refundable stays and activities
- during extreme weather seasons for heat-related emergencies or disruptions
- in case of any pre-existing medical condition, even if minor
- if you are carrying expensive equipment like cameras or drones
The price of domestic travel insurance
On average, domestic travel insurance costs between 2% and 4% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost (AED) | Indicative price per person (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| 3-day city break in Abu Dhabi | 1,000 | 20 to 40 |
| 5-day family getaway to Fujairah | 3,500 | 60 to 120 |
| 7-day adventure in Ras Al Khaimah mountains | 2,500 | 40 to 80 |
| 10-day multi-emirate road trip | 4,800 | 80 to 160 |
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 domestic travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: longer stays and more travel days increase the insurance cost.
- destination: trips to remote or high-activity regions, such as deserts or mountains, may cost more.
- traveller’s age: older travelers can expect slightly higher premiums.
- level of coverage: comprehensive plans or coverage for adventure sports raise the price.
- selected options: adding coverage for valuables, specific activities, or medical conditions increases the total premium.
What domestic travel insurance covers
Domestic travel insurance protects travelers from unexpected events during trips within the United Arab Emirates.
It offers financial protection for UAE residents and tourists exploring different emirates, including coverage specifically for local travel risks.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refund for prepaid trip costs if you cancel for a covered reason before leaving. | At least AED 5,000 cover is recommended. Deductibles should not exceed AED 100. Pre-existing medical problems, change of mind, and work obligations are usually excluded. |
| 🛫 Missed departure | Pays extra transport if you miss your flight, bus, or train due to covered events. | Choose AED 1,000 minimum with no deductible. Cover is excluded for delays without proof or personal lateness. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Compensation if your journey is delayed beyond a set time threshold. | Look for compensation of AED 200+ after 4 hours, with no deductible. Shorter delays or lack of documentation are not covered. |
| 🎒 Baggage loss or theft | Key guarantee. Protection for your luggage against loss, theft, or damage during your trip. | At least AED 2,000 cover. Deductibles above AED 50 should be avoided. Excludes valuables above AED 500, unattended items, and cash. |
| 🏥 Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays for emergency medical care following accident or illness in the UAE. | Minimum AED 25,000 cover with deductible below AED 100 is best. Routine treatment and pre-existing conditions are not covered. |
| 🚑 Emergency evacuation | Cost of ambulance or transport to the nearest hospital in medical emergencies. | Look for at least AED 25,000 cover, with low deductible. Evacuation for non-emergency or elective procedures is excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Pays for urgent dental work due to pain or accident on your trip. | AED 700 minimum is recommended, deductible should be below AED 30. Routine, orthodontic or cosmetic dental care is not covered. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refund for unused bookings if you must end your trip early due to emergencies. | A minimum of AED 10,000 cover is advised, with deductible under AED 50. Early returns for minor issues, work, or voluntary reasons are excluded. |
| 🪪 Personal liability | Covers accidental injury to another person or property damage during your trip. | At least AED 100,000 cover. Deductibles should not exceed AED 150. Intentional damage, professional work, and incidents involving family are excluded. |
| 🏜️ Adventure sports | Protection for medical costs and accidents during adventure activities in the UAE. | No less than AED 15,000 cover, deductible below AED 100 is advised. Professional competitions, unlicensed activities, and some extreme sports are excluded. |
Pre-existing medical problems, change of mind, and work obligations are usually excluded.
Cover is excluded for delays without proof or personal lateness.
Shorter delays or lack of documentation are not covered.
Excludes valuables above AED 500, unattended items, and cash.
Routine treatment and pre-existing conditions are not covered.
Evacuation for non-emergency or elective procedures is excluded.
Routine, orthodontic or cosmetic dental care is not covered.
Early returns for minor issues, work, or voluntary reasons are excluded.
Intentional damage, professional work, and incidents involving family are excluded.
Professional competitions, unlicensed activities, and some extreme sports are excluded.
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 domestic travel insurance best suited to your journey within the UAE, easily compare plans on HelloSafe.
The conditions of domestic travel insurance
Domestic travel insurance is valid only if certain essential conditions are respected by travelers within the UAE.
- Timing of purchase: the policy must be bought before the start of your trip inside the UAE.
- Residency or visitor status: you must be a UAE resident or an officially registered visitor eligible under the insurer’s terms.
- Trip duration limit: the insurance is valid only for the exact period stated in your contract, usually with a maximum trip duration.
- No ongoing travel: coverage cannot be purchased after your journey has already started.
- Declared destinations: all emirates and intended activities must be declared, especially if visiting remote or high-risk regions.
- Incident notification: any insured event, such as a medical emergency or theft, must be reported to the insurer promptly as per contract.
- Supporting documentation: valid claims require original bills, police or hospital reports, or other acceptable proof.
- Pre-existing conditions disclosure: known health conditions must be declared prior to cover, or related claims may be rejected.
Watch out!
A common mistake is assuming your bank card's travel insurance is sufficient for domestic trips in the UAE. Most credit card policies offer very limited or no coverage for travel within the country. Always verify the fine print; you likely need a dedicated domestic policy for proper protection.
Why take out domestic travel insurance?
Unexpected incidents can happen during a domestic trip and may result in significant costs, especially for medical emergencies or evacuation in remote areas.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost in Northern Emirates (AED) | Average cost in Dubai/Abu Dhabi (AED) | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) | 800 to 1,200 | 1,500 to 2,500 | Up to 100% within the plan limit |
| Medical repatriation within UAE | 5,000 to 12,000 | 8,000 to 18,000 | Generally covered up to full cost |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization | 25,000 to 40,000 | 45,000 to 75,000 | Up to 100% of policy coverage |
| Stitches after a fall | 600 to 900 | 1,200 to 2,000 | Up to full benefit amount |
| Consultation and treatment for intestinal infection | 500 to 800 | 1,000 to 1,800 | Reimbursed up to full policy value |
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.
Besides medical expenses, domestic travel insurance can offer other valuable protections: trip cancellation, lost or delayed luggage, personal accident, adventure sports, personal liability, and emergency evacuation. These guarantees provide added security when travelling across the UAE.
Good to know
Why take out Exploring the Hajar Mountains or the Liwa Desert? Your standard insurance might not cover adventure sports or emergency evacuation. Helicopter rescue can cost over AED 30,000. Secure your trip with specialized domestic insurance from providers like ACS to travel worry-free across the Emirates.
How to choose the right domestic travel insurance
Not all domestic travel insurance plans in the UAE offer the same coverage, limits, or exclusions. It is important to compare specific criteria before you buy, to make sure the plan matches your needs and travel profile.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Medical emergencies, evacuation, or lost baggage can become expensive even within the UAE. | Seek a limit of at least AED 25,000 for medical and check other categories for adequacy. |
| 📉 Deductible | The amount you pay out of pocket for each claim affects your true protection. | Choose a low deductible, especially for medical and baggage, to lower your up-front costs. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Benefits may depend on booking dates, trip type, or policy activation timing. | Confirm that your cover period includes travel days and check for exclusions by policy type. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Coverage offered and premiums may change for seniors or younger travelers. | If traveling with seniors or children, check for age-specific rules, limits, or exclusions. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Family, solo, and group travelers may benefit from tailored options or bundled deals. | Families and groups should look for policies that offer shared coverage or discounts. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Some plans have maximum trip limits per journey, even for short local holidays. | Make sure your policy covers your actual trip days including extensions for trip delays. |
| 🏙️ Geographic area | Coverage may differ by emirate, city, or remote region within the UAE. | Confirm your policy is valid across all emirates, especially for remote or adventure trips. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Credit cards or health insurance could provide some limited protection for local travel. | Check what your health or bank insurance covers before adding a separate domestic plan. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Adventure sports and outdoor activities are often excluded by default. | To fully cover dune bashing, desert camping or mountain sports, opt for a policy with adventure benefits. |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Fast, online policy purchase and claims speed up your travel arrangements and potential claims. | Prefer insurers with online services and digital claims for ease and quick documentation. |
domestic Travel Insurance Coverage Under Your Current Policies
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurance plans, such as credit card insurance or your health cover, can provide you with domestic 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 | Domestic travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Dubai Health Authority) | Never | Emergency treatment in government hospitals, maximum: AED 18,350 per incident. No coverage for trip cancellation, baggage loss, adventure sports, or liability protection, which are key domestic travel needs. | Travel insurance covers up to AED 100,000, including cancellation, baggage, adventure, and legal benefits. |
| Private health insurance (Daman Health, AXA Gulf) | Almost Never | Medical emergencies nationwide, limits: AED 22,020–36,700 per claim, excludes non-medical events. No trip cancellation, baggage delay, adventure sports, or interruption coverage essential for domestic trips. | Travel insurance pays up to AED 100,000 for domestic risks, including lost baggage, sports, and liability. |
| Classic credit card (Emirates NBD Classic, ADCB Classic) | Never | Limited medical or delayed baggage outside UAE, up to: AED 3,670. No coverage for domestic medical, evacuation, trip changes, or adventure activities during UAE travel. | Travel insurance can reimburse up to AED 100,000 for all common domestic travel events and emergencies. |
| Premium credit card (FAB Premium, HSBC Premier) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical expenses, baggage, up to: AED 18,350–36,700 but with significant exclusions. Adventure activities, trip cancellation, family/group coverage, and evacuation are rarely included. | Travel insurance is designed for UAE trips, offering up to AED 100,000 and full coverage for all needs. |
No coverage for trip cancellation, baggage loss, adventure sports, or liability protection, which are key domestic travel needs.
No trip cancellation, baggage delay, adventure sports, or interruption coverage essential for domestic trips.
No coverage for domestic medical, evacuation, trip changes, or adventure activities during UAE travel.
Adventure activities, trip cancellation, family/group coverage, and evacuation are rarely included.
Expert advice
Many bank card and health insurance plans exclude key situations, such as trip interruption due to a relative's illness or death. Scrutinize your policy's terms 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 domestic travel insurance mandatory?
Domestic travel insurance is not legally mandatory for travel within the UAE, including trips between the emirates. However, it is strongly recommended, especially for adventure tourism, desert safaris, or trips to remote areas. For example, if you require emergency evacuation or costly medical care during a hiking trip in the Hajar Mountains, having insurance can be crucial for both financial protection and peace of mind.
When is it recommended to purchase domestic travel insurance?
It is best to purchase domestic travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. Early purchase ensures that you benefit from coverage for trip cancellations and emergencies before your journey begins. Obtaining coverage in advance allows you to compare more options and secure protection against unforeseen events during your entire travel period.
How do I purchase domestic travel insurance?
First, compare available plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform for the best match. Next, check all guarantees and exclusions, making sure coverage details fit your travel within the UAE. Then, purchase your chosen policy online in just a few steps. You will immediately receive your certificate by email for proof of coverage.
Can I purchase domestic travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can buy domestic travel insurance even after booking your trip or accommodations. However, it is advisable to purchase coverage as early as possible since some benefits—like trip cancellation protection—are only valid if the policy is purchased before any incidents occur.
How do I make a claim with domestic travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s claims department by phone, website, or mobile app, providing your policy number and evidence of your loss or expenses. Collect all relevant receipts and official documents, then submit them as instructed by your provider. Many UAE insurers offer fast claim processing and multi-language support.
Does domestic travel insurance cover adventure sports?
Many domestic travel insurance policies in the UAE offer optional add-ons for high-risk adventure activities like dune bashing, mountain hiking, or water sports. Always review your policy to ensure your intended activities are covered, as some extreme sports may be excluded or require an additional premium.
Is domestic travel insurance valid for all emirates?
Yes, domestic travel insurance is valid across all seven emirates, including remote desert and mountain destinations. Confirm that your plan covers the specific locations and activities in your itinerary, and ensure the coverage period matches your travel dates within the UAE.
Is domestic travel insurance mandatory?
Domestic travel insurance is not legally mandatory for travel within the UAE, including trips between the emirates. However, it is strongly recommended, especially for adventure tourism, desert safaris, or trips to remote areas. For example, if you require emergency evacuation or costly medical care during a hiking trip in the Hajar Mountains, having insurance can be crucial for both financial protection and peace of mind.
When is it recommended to purchase domestic travel insurance?
It is best to purchase domestic travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. Early purchase ensures that you benefit from coverage for trip cancellations and emergencies before your journey begins. Obtaining coverage in advance allows you to compare more options and secure protection against unforeseen events during your entire travel period.
How do I purchase domestic travel insurance?
First, compare available plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform for the best match. Next, check all guarantees and exclusions, making sure coverage details fit your travel within the UAE. Then, purchase your chosen policy online in just a few steps. You will immediately receive your certificate by email for proof of coverage.
Can I purchase domestic travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can buy domestic travel insurance even after booking your trip or accommodations. However, it is advisable to purchase coverage as early as possible since some benefits—like trip cancellation protection—are only valid if the policy is purchased before any incidents occur.
How do I make a claim with domestic travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s claims department by phone, website, or mobile app, providing your policy number and evidence of your loss or expenses. Collect all relevant receipts and official documents, then submit them as instructed by your provider. Many UAE insurers offer fast claim processing and multi-language support.
Does domestic travel insurance cover adventure sports?
Many domestic travel insurance policies in the UAE offer optional add-ons for high-risk adventure activities like dune bashing, mountain hiking, or water sports. Always review your policy to ensure your intended activities are covered, as some extreme sports may be excluded or require an additional premium.
Is domestic travel insurance valid for all emirates?
Yes, domestic travel insurance is valid across all seven emirates, including remote desert and mountain destinations. Confirm that your plan covers the specific locations and activities in your itinerary, and ensure the coverage period matches your travel dates within the UAE.
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