- The best short term travel insurance plans
- What is short term travel insurance?
- The price of short term travel insurance
- What does short term travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of short term travel insurance
- Why take out short term travel insurance?
- How to choose the right short term travel insurance
- Does my current insurance cover short term travel insurance?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
short term travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Short-term travel insurance covers single trips, protecting you against unforeseen medical emergencies and travel-related financial losses.
2. Price: For a one-week trip to Europe, expect to pay between 150 and 300 AED for basic coverage.
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 plans like DHA offer very limited or no travel cancellation or repatriation cover.
5. Tips: Verify medical limits meet your destination's costs and that the policy is accepted for any required travel visas.
6. Other useful info: Many policies now include COVID-19 cover, and family plans can offer better value than individual policies.
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 short term travel insurance.
The best short term travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best short term travel insurance plans available for residents of the UAE in 2025. These policies stand out for their high coverage limits, low deductibles and clear conditions, offering solid protection for trips up to 90 days.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 400,000 AED | 100 AED |
|
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 367,000 AED | 150 AED |
|
| Tourist Card | 275,000 AED | 200 AED |
|
| World Travel | 400,000 AED | 100 AED |
|
| Globe Partner | 300,000 AED | 180 AED |
|
| Globe Traveller | 275,000 AED | 180 AED |
|
- Instant digital policy issuance.
- 24/7 global medical assistance.
- Easy mobile claim submission.
- Robust coverage for trip and baggage delays.
- Fast claims processing online.
- Multilingual support hotline.
- Direct hospital billing.
- Covers emergency repatriation worldwide.
- Upfront hospital payment.
- WhatsApp support service.
- Multilingual care team.
- Free trip certificate delivery.
- Digital claims management.
- Adventure sports included.
- High reimbursement limit.
- Quick policy adjustments for changing plans.
- Paperless enrolment.
- Family and group discounts.
- 24/7 emergency support.
- Schengen-compliant certificate.
- Flexible duration for short stays.
- Multilingual emergency hotline.
- Travel extension options.
- Direct settlement with healthcare providers.
The best short term travel insurance depends on your travel plans and personal needs. Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to choose the plan that suits you best and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat is short term travel insurance?
Short term travel insurance is temporary coverage for UAE residents taking trips that last up to 90 days.
It helps protect against financial losses from unexpected incidents during brief travel periods, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and personal liability.
This type of insurance is designed for tourists and business travelers who need reliable protection for a single journey or short international stays.
Short term travel insurance, also called temporary or 3-month travel insurance, is limited to trips under 90 days and separate from annual or long term policies.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out short term travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in the United Arab Emirates:
- For Schengen visa applications, which require mandatory travel insurance coverage.
- When visiting countries with high medical costs like the USA.
- If you book an expensive or non-refundable trip from the UAE.
- For trips involving adventure sports like skiing, diving, or hiking.
- When travelling with children or elderly family members from the UAE.
- If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, even minor ones.
- For any travel outside the GCC where local health plans don't apply.
The price of short term travel insurance
On average, short term travel insurance costs between 2% and 5% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost (AED) | Indicative price per person (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| 4-day business trip to France | 3,200 | 60 to 110 |
| 10-day holiday in Thailand | 6,000 | 120 to 250 |
| 2-week guided tour in Italy and Spain | 11,000 | 220 to 450 |
| 1-month summer stay in Canada | 18,000 | 400 to 750 |
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 short term travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: a longer stay leads to a higher premium.
- destination: travel to countries with expensive healthcare, such as the USA or Switzerland, will increase the insurance cost.
- traveller’s age: older travelers tend to pay more.
- level of coverage: comprehensive plans with higher limits or lower deductibles cost more.
- selected options: extra cover for activities, valuable belongings, or cancellation flexibility can raise the price.
What does short term travel insurance cover?
Short term travel insurance is a temporary policy designed to protect UAE residents during trips lasting up to three months. It provides essential financial and medical protection for tourists, business travelers, or those making short international journeys.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refund of your costs if the trip is cancelled for covered reasons before departure. | Choose at least AED 5,000 cover and deductibles below AED 100. Exclusions include change of mind, poorly documented events, and visa refusal. |
| 🛫 Missed departure | Covers extra transport costs if your delay is caused by specified events. | Minimum AED 700 cover is advised with no deductible. Missed flights from personal lateness or lack of official proof are not covered. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Pays a fixed allowance for transport delays above a set threshold. | Look for AED 250+ after 4 hours, with no deductible. Delays under 4 hours or without official confirmation are excluded. |
| 🎒 Baggage loss or theft | Covers loss, theft, or damage to checked luggage during travel. | At least AED 2,500 cover is standard with a deductible under AED 30. Loss of valuables, electronics, or unattended baggage are frequently excluded. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays urgent medical and hospital bills abroad. | Minimum AED 250,000 is advised. Deductibles should be no higher than AED 100. Routine care, pre-existing conditions, and elective procedures are excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Covers return to UAE for emergency medical reasons. | At least AED 200,000 cover with low deductible is recommended. Non-emergency transport or refusals to be repatriated are not covered. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Pays for urgent dental treatment due to accident or sudden pain on the trip. | Choose at least AED 1,000 coverage and avoid high deductibles. Cosmetic dental work, planned care, and orthodontics are excluded. |
| 🪪 Personal liability | Protects if you accidentally injure others or damage property during your trip. | Minimum AED 50,000 cover with deductibles below AED 100. Damage to family, rented items, or arising from professional activities is usually excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Compensation for unused services if a serious emergency cuts your trip short. | At least AED 3,000 is advisable. Low deductibles preferred. Voluntary returns, minor illnesses, and work changes are generally not included. |
| 🧍♂️ Personal accident | Compensation for accidental death or permanent disability during travel. | AED 25,000 is a typical starting point with no deductible. Suicide, extreme sports, and illegal activities are excluded unless specifically covered. |
Exclusions include change of mind, poorly documented events, and visa refusal.
Missed flights from personal lateness or lack of official proof are not covered.
Delays under 4 hours or without official confirmation are excluded.
Loss of valuables, electronics, or unattended baggage are frequently excluded.
Routine care, pre-existing conditions, and elective procedures are excluded.
Non-emergency transport or refusals to be repatriated are not covered.
Cosmetic dental work, planned care, and orthodontics are excluded.
Damage to family, rented items, or arising from professional activities is usually excluded.
Voluntary returns, minor illnesses, and work changes are generally not included.
Suicide, extreme sports, and illegal activities are excluded unless specifically covered.
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 short term travel insurance best suited to your needs, easily compare plans on HelloSafe.
The conditions of short term travel insurance
Short term travel insurance is effective only when key eligibility and usage conditions are met throughout your journey.
- Timing of policy purchase: you must buy the policy before beginning your trip from the UAE.
- Residency requirement: only UAE residents are eligible for short term policies issued by UAE insurers.
- Trip duration limit: the covered period cannot exceed the stated maximum, usually 90 days per trip.
- Policy activation location: coverage starts when you depart from the UAE, not after starting your trip abroad.
- Destination restrictions: trips to countries under UAE official warnings or sanctions may not be covered.
- Timely notification: incidents or emergencies must be reported to your insurer as soon as possible after they occur.
- Supporting documents: all claims require original proof such as travel itineraries, receipts, medical or police reports.
- Disclosure of health conditions: known pre-existing medical issues must be declared during application, or coverage may be refused.
Watch out!
A common misunderstanding in the UAE is relying solely on bank card travel insurance. These policies often provide only basic coverage with low limits and may exclude crucial benefits like medical repatriation. Always check the fine print and consider a dedicated plan for comprehensive protection.
Why take out short term travel insurance?
Even on a brief trip, medical issues or accidents abroad can lead to unexpectedly high expenses that are not covered by UAE health insurance.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to AED 500,000 for medical emergencies |
| Medical repatriation |
| Up to AED 1,000,000, generally 100% covered |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to AED 500,000 if included in benefits |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Typically reimbursed up to 100% |
| Emergency tooth extraction |
| Usually covered up to AED 5,000 |
- Europe: AED 800 to AED 1,200
- North America: AED 1,500 to AED 2,500
- Asia: AED 400 to AED 800
- Europe: AED 25,000 to AED 50,000
- North America: AED 40,000 to AED 80,000
- Asia: AED 20,000 to AED 35,000
- Europe: AED 15,000 to AED 30,000
- North America: AED 35,000 to AED 70,000
- Asia: AED 8,000 to AED 20,000
- Europe: AED 600 to AED 1,000
- North America: AED 1,200 to AED 2,000
- Asia: AED 300 to AED 600
- Europe: AED 1,000 to AED 2,000
- North America: AED 2,000 to AED 3,500
- Asia: AED 500 to AED 1,200
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.
Beyond emergency medical costs, short term travel insurance may also offer trip cancellation, baggage cover, personal liability abroad, emergency assistance, and 24/7 helplines. These protections are useful when unexpected events disrupt your travels.
Good to know
Your local health plan likely won't cover you abroad, where an appendicitis surgery can cost 35,000 AED. Protect your savings from massive medical bills with a short-term plan. Insurers like Mondialcare offer comprehensive coverage for complete peace of mind on your trip.
How to choose the right short term travel insurance
Coverage levels, reimbursement limits, and exclusions can vary widely between short term travel insurance plans. It is important to compare your options so your coverage truly matches your travel duration, destination, and specific needs.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Lower limits may not cover high medical or repatriation costs in some destinations. | Aim for medical coverage of at least AED 250,000, especially for travel outside the UAE or Europe. |
| 📉 Deductible | The deductible affects your out-of-pocket costs in the event of a claim. | Select policies with low or no deductible for medical emergencies for greater financial protection. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Coverage availability, limits, and premiums may change for seniors. | If above 65, always verify age-related conditions and possible premium increases before purchase. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Solo travelers, couples, and families may have different coverage needs. | Family plans often provide wider cover at better prices than buying separate policies for each person. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Some insurers cap the length of short term coverage (commonly 90 days max). | Ensure your policy covers your entire stay including any unexpected travel extensions or delays. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Coverage and cost differ depending on the chosen travel destination or region. | Higher cover is needed for trips to North America or countries with expensive healthcare like the USA and Canada. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Some UAE health insurance plans and bank cards may offer limited or overlapping travel benefits. | Compare with your bank card and health insurance to avoid gaps and unnecessary extra spending. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Some activities, like skiing or diving, are often excluded unless specifically covered. | If you will do adventure sports, specifically request this coverage before buying your policy. |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Online sign-up provides fast, convenient policy purchase, often needed for last-minute trips. | Use insurers with mobile apps or websites that offer instant digital documents for both peace of mind and visa process. |
Does my current insurance cover short term travel insurance?
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurance plans, such as credit card or health insurance, can offer you a short term 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 | Short term travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Dubai Health Authority) | Never | Emergency treatment within UAE or GCC, maximum: AED 20,000. No overseas coverage, medical repatriation, cancellation, baggage, or liability is included at all. | Travel insurance reimburses up to AED 500,000 for medical, repatriation, and covers trip issues and liability not included. |
| Private health insurance (Daman Health, AXA UAE) | Almost Never | Limited emergency cover abroad, maximum: AED 25,000–40,000, often excludes repatriation. No trip cancellation, baggage, major repatriation, or liability cover included in most plans. | Travel insurance reaches up to AED 500,000 and includes cancellation, baggage, and full overseas repatriation cover. |
| Classic credit card (Emirates NBD Standard, ADCB Classic) | Never | Basic accident, some baggage delay, maximum: AED 3,000–5,000, no real medical or repatriation benefits. No medical, no repatriation, no trip cancellation is offered by classic cards for travel. | Travel insurance offers up to AED 500,000 for health and repatriation, plus cancellation and liability not found on cards. |
| Premium credit card (FAB World Elite, HSBC Premier) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical, baggage, cancellation, maximum: AED 60,000–100,000, repatriation often limited. No full protection for sudden illness, high medical bills, or emergency repatriation abroad. | Travel insurance covers reimbursements up to AED 500,000 for medical, cancellation, and repatriation, far exceeding card cover. |
No overseas coverage, medical repatriation, cancellation, baggage, or liability is included at all.
No trip cancellation, baggage, major repatriation, or liability cover included in most plans.
No medical, no repatriation, no trip cancellation is offered by classic cards for travel.
No full protection for sudden illness, high medical bills, or emergency repatriation abroad.
Expert advice
Bank cards and health insurance often exclude critical situations like trip interruption for a family emergency. Always read the fine print to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. For complete peace of mind, it is always safer to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Is short term travel insurance mandatory?
Short term travel insurance is not mandatory for all trips, but it is required by certain countries as part of their visa or entry requirements—such as Schengen states or Russia. Even when not compulsory, it is strongly recommended, especially for destinations with high healthcare costs. For example, an emergency in the USA or Switzerland could lead to expenses over AED 100,000 without insurance.
When is it recommended to purchase short term travel insurance?
It is best to purchase short term travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. Early purchase means you are covered for trip cancellations, sudden emergencies, and other issues that might arise even before departure. This approach also ensures you get the best price and widest choice of coverage options for your travel needs.
How do I purchase short term travel insurance?
Start by comparing offers using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the best fit. Check the guarantees and exclusions specifically for short term trips, such as coverage limits and adventure activities. Purchase your chosen policy online in minutes. You will immediately receive your certificate by email for use during your travels.
Can I purchase short term travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can still purchase short term travel insurance after booking your trip, as long as your policy starts before you leave the UAE. However, some benefits, like cancellation protection, are only valid if you buy the policy before any problem occurs. Buying early remains the safest and most cost-effective option.
How do I make a claim with short term travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s claims service by phone, website, or mobile app. Prepare all supporting documents such as receipts, medical reports, or police statements. Submit these documents as instructed by your provider. Most UAE insurers now process claims digitally for greater speed and convenience.
Does short term travel insurance cover pre-existing health conditions?
Most short term travel insurance policies in the UAE exclude pre-existing medical conditions, unless you declare them in advance and pay an extra premium. Coverage varies by insurer, so always check the terms, especially if you have ongoing health concerns or recent medical treatments.
Does short term travel insurance cover extreme sports or adventure activities?
Some insurers include adventure sports or extreme activity coverage as an optional add-on for short term policies. Always check if your planned activities—like skiing, diving, or climbing—are covered. If not, request an extension or look for a specialized policy to avoid rejected claims later.
Is short term travel insurance mandatory?
Short term travel insurance is not mandatory for all trips, but it is required by certain countries as part of their visa or entry requirements—such as Schengen states or Russia. Even when not compulsory, it is strongly recommended, especially for destinations with high healthcare costs. For example, an emergency in the USA or Switzerland could lead to expenses over AED 100,000 without insurance.
When is it recommended to purchase short term travel insurance?
It is best to purchase short term travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. Early purchase means you are covered for trip cancellations, sudden emergencies, and other issues that might arise even before departure. This approach also ensures you get the best price and widest choice of coverage options for your travel needs.
How do I purchase short term travel insurance?
Start by comparing offers using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the best fit. Check the guarantees and exclusions specifically for short term trips, such as coverage limits and adventure activities. Purchase your chosen policy online in minutes. You will immediately receive your certificate by email for use during your travels.
Can I purchase short term travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can still purchase short term travel insurance after booking your trip, as long as your policy starts before you leave the UAE. However, some benefits, like cancellation protection, are only valid if you buy the policy before any problem occurs. Buying early remains the safest and most cost-effective option.
How do I make a claim with short term travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s claims service by phone, website, or mobile app. Prepare all supporting documents such as receipts, medical reports, or police statements. Submit these documents as instructed by your provider. Most UAE insurers now process claims digitally for greater speed and convenience.
Does short term travel insurance cover pre-existing health conditions?
Most short term travel insurance policies in the UAE exclude pre-existing medical conditions, unless you declare them in advance and pay an extra premium. Coverage varies by insurer, so always check the terms, especially if you have ongoing health concerns or recent medical treatments.
Does short term travel insurance cover extreme sports or adventure activities?
Some insurers include adventure sports or extreme activity coverage as an optional add-on for short term policies. Always check if your planned activities—like skiing, diving, or climbing—are covered. If not, request an extension or look for a specialized policy to avoid rejected claims later.
On the same topic
