The ideal duration for a term insurance policy in the UAE depends on several factors, primarily your age, financial responsibilities, and long-term goals. A term policy is designed to provide coverage for a fixed period, typically ranging from 5 to 30 years.
If you're in your 20s or 30s and just starting your career or family, choose a longer-term policy, i.e. at least 20-30 years. This ensures long-term financial protection.
Consider the duration of your financial responsibilities. For instance, if you have a mortgage or educational loan that will be paid off in 15-20 years, the term should cover that period. This ensures your loved ones are not burdened in case of your untimely death.
If you have children, it’s wise to choose a term that lasts until they become financially independent. This could be around the time they complete their education, typically 20-25 years from their birth.
You should also align the term with your retirement plans. Many prefer coverage until their planned retirement age (around 60-65 years) to ensure financial protection during their working years when income is critical.