Dubai and the broader UAE have become a major destination for Australian travellers, whether it’s a short stopover at one of the world’s great airports, a luxury beach holiday on the Palm, or an adventure in the desert. As a global transit hub and growing travel destination, the UAE presents some unique considerations for Australians choosing travel insurance.
Healthcare in Dubai: World-Class but Expensive
Dubai has excellent private medical facilities, Dubai Hospital, Mediclinic, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, comparable to the best in the world. But they come at a significant cost. Medical care in the UAE is entirely private and billed at premium rates. A single emergency room visit can cost AUD $1,000–$3,000, and hospitalisation can run AUD $2,000–$5,000 per day. Always carry AUD $5M+ in emergency medical cover.
UAE Laws: What Australian Travellers Need to Know
The UAE has laws that differ significantly from Australia. Some medications legal in Australia require a permit to bring into the UAE. Public intoxication is illegal even in Emirates where alcohol is sold in licensed venues. Travel insurance does not cover legal costs or fines arising from breaking local laws.
Desert Adventures and Activities
Desert safari tours, dune bashing, camel rides, hot air ballooning, and skydiving are popular activities in the UAE. Check whether your travel insurance covers quad biking, hot air ballooning, and skydiving, many are excluded from standard policies.
Transit and Stopover Cover
Many Australians pass through Dubai as a transit hub on the way to Europe. If you have a long stopover and choose to explore the city, check that your travel insurance covers you during this transit period. Most comprehensive policies cover the entire journey from departure to return.
What to Look for in UAE Travel Insurance
- High emergency medical cover (AUD $5M+)
- Medical evacuation and repatriation
- Adventure activities cover (confirm for specific activities)
- Trip cancellation and disruption
- Personal belongings cover
- 24/7 assistance with regional support
A one-week comprehensive Dubai policy typically costs Australians AUD $70–$120.
