Starting soon, tourists applying for visas to the UAE will be able to secure health insurance as part of the application process.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced this transformative project on Monday, aimed at providing health coverage for emergencies.
Major-General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director-General of the ICP, highlighted that this initiative will streamline the process of obtaining health insurance through the ICP website or app. The system will automate pricing and issuance of insurance packages from major UAE insurers.
Ramzi Ghurani, Managing Partner at Petra Insurance Brokers, praised the initiative for benefiting both the local healthcare system and visitors. He emphasized the importance of insurance for covering unexpected medical emergencies, ensuring that tourists won’t have to rely on hospitals to cover their costs.
Ghurani also advised visitors to check the specifics of their insurance coverage. “Many travelers are unaware of the importance of health insurance. Those seeking comprehensive coverage may need to supplement with private insurance to ensure full protection.”
Industry experts also welcomed the project, citing its potential to enhance the tourist experience and solidify the UAE’s reputation as a premier travel destination. Akbar Moideen Thumbay, Vice President of Thumbay Healthcare, noted that this initiative offers essential protection for travelers against unforeseen medical expenses. “Visitors will have peace of mind, knowing their health and safety are prioritized from the visa application stage.”
Thumbay added that the automated insurance process will allow tourists to choose competitive coverage options, catering to diverse needs and ensuring a superior overall experience. This move is expected to bolster the UAE’s status as a top vacation spot that prioritizes safety and wellbeing.
