Indian Diplomatic Missions Urge Expats and Visitors in UAE: Review Your Medical Insurance Now

The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Northern Emirates have issued a joint advisory. It asks every Indian national visiting or living in the country to ensure they have sufficient medical coverage.

Why was the Advisory Released?

As per the advisory of the Embassy and Consulate, many families are being caught out by medical emergencies with insufficient insurance coverage. The two offices mentioned that they get reports from Indian nationals who fell ill or faced a medical emergency in the UAE. In several cases, the insurance was limited. Due to this, the resulting bills were more than the patient or their family could afford.

The advisory was shared on social media on Tuesday. It was published in English, Hindi, Malayalam and Telugu to reach as many people as possible. With around 4.5 million Indians living in the UAE, the advisory was aimed at a substantial community.

If You’re Visiting the UAE

Anyone travelling to the UAE as a tourist or visitor should buy suitable medical insurance before the trip begins. As per the missions, the policy must include:

• Cashless treatment, so you are not forced to pay large sums upfront at the hospital
• Medical repatriation to India, which covers the cost of getting you home if you have a serious emergency

If You’re Living and Working in the UAE

Indians on an employment visa, and their dependents, should confirm that their policy is adequate. It should cover all medical expenses in the UAE as well as medical repatriation to India.

Note that the advisory is for both existing policyholders and newcomers. Also, it’s not enough to get any policy. The missions urge individuals to confirm that their plan covers what they would actually need.

Quick Checklist: What to Look For in Your Policy

The points, drawn from the advisory, are crucial. Read your policy documents carefully, or ask your insurer or broker to confirm each one:

1. Does it cover medical emergencies in the UAE? Check the limits, not just whether a policy exists.
2. Is cashless treatment included? Find out which hospitals and clinics accept it.
3. Does it include repatriation to India? This is the item most people forget.
4. Do your dependents have the same protection? Do not assume spouses and children are covered.
5. Is the policy valid for your whole stay? A visitor’s policy should run for the full trip.

Dedicated Support for Blue-collar Workers

The advisory also draws attention to an existing scheme. About two years ago, the Consulate helped launch a Life Protection Plan with UAE-based insurers for Indian workers, especially those in blue-collar jobs. The plan offers financial support to a worker’s family in cases of natural or accidental death. It also covers accidental disability and repatriation costs.