UAE Tourist Health Insurance: New Requirements for Visitors and What They Mean for Travelers
The United Arab Emirates government has taken a very progressive step to make it the most sought-after place by many tourists. It is introducing a new system that will provide health insurance to tourists coming in with tourist visas. This move will arguably enhance the travel experience in this Middle Eastern nation and solve a major concern for international visitors: health coverage.
New Era of Tourist Health Insurance
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, UAE, has unveiled its latest initiative to link health insurance with tourist visa applications. A report by Khaleej Times reveals that ICP was envisaging a change to ease many other procedures for travelers.
This new system is projected to help tourists avail of health insurance coverage while applying for visas online through ICP’s website or mobile application. It will help select, price, and issue insurance packages for major insurers across the UAE through this online electronic channel.
Benefits of the New Health Insurance Initiative to be Issued
The new initiative is expected to ensure that all visitors to the UAE have some form of emergency health coverage. According to Ramzi Ghurani, managing partner of Petra Insurance Brokers, “Having insurance cover for all travelers is assurance that they are covered for their admission to hospital in the event of a medical emergency, however sudden.”. This, in turn, also reassures the country’s government and private hospitals that they do not have to bear the expenses of an emergency for visitors.
The comprehensive insurance coverage would let tourists be at peace, knowing that they are covered against unexpected medical expenses. For healthcare providers, this removes any apprehensions about being saddled with the costs of emergency treatment of tourists, thus smoothing out financial processes.
Positive Reactions from the Industry
The move has also been welcomed by tourism players, who think that this move is going to add value to the tourist visiting experience. With health insurance now attached to visa applications, the UAE looks forward to entrenching itself as a premier travel destination. More visitors will be keen to visit a country that makes the process so much easier—where they feel added security and convenience in case a mishap occurs during their travels.
How It Works
Tourist visa applicants for the UAE would now be allowed to opt for and buy health insurance on the same online platform on which their visa application is made. This shall integrate the process and avoid the hassle of having separate arrangements for health insurance coverage. Options of various insurance packages would be available with different providers; hence, tourists can pick what seems most feasible according to their requirements and budget.
Looking Ahead
With this new initiative in health insurance, it is a quantum step forward as the UAE forges ahead, innovating and bettering its services to visitors. It portrays its commitment to the visitor experience and a high level of care for all travelers. This also places the UAE at the forefront as a destination where the well-being of travellers comes first.
