Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIP)

Looking to grow your wealth and secure your family’s future at the same time? A ULIP plan is a hybrid financial product that combines life insurance coverage with market-linked investments—all in a single policy.

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With a ULIP, you not only protect your family’s future but also take advantage of investment opportunities. If you are ready to explore how they can maximise your returns while ensuring financial security, let’s delve into the details. 

What is a ULIP Plan?

ULIP stands for Unit Linked Insurance Plan, a dual-benefit policy that provides both life insurance and market-linked investment. When you pay your premium towards a ULIP, it gets split in two parts:

  • One portion provides life cover to protect your family
  • The other portion is invested in funds, equity, debt, or hybrid, depending on your risk appetite and financial goals

With ULIP plans, you don’t just get insured, you invest in your future.

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Some of the best Investment quotes in UAE & Dubai are:

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How Do ULIP Plans in the UAE Work?

The insurer pools money from you and invests it in various market instruments. The value of your investment is determined by the Net Asset Value (NAV) of the fund you choose.

  • You pay a regular premium (monthly/quarterly/annually/lump sum)
  • A part goes toward providing life cover
  • The remaining is invested in market-linked funds
  • You receive units based on the Net Asset Value (NAV) of the fund
  • At maturity, you get the fund value (market value of your investments)
  • In case of your unfortunate demise, your nominee receives either the sum assured, the fund value, or both depending on the ULIP type

Note: ULIPs come with a 5-year lock-in period, ensuring discipline in long-term investing.

Component

Details

Premium Split

Part goes towards life cover, part towards investment in chosen funds

NAV (Net Asset Value)

Reflects your investment performance daily

Returns

Market-linked; average ULIP returns in 10 years range from 12–20%

Death Benefit

Paid to nominee: either sum assured or fund value (or both), depending on plan type

Maturity Benefit

Fund value at the end of the policy term

📝This plan is suitable for NRIs and residents in the UAE who want insurance protection along with long-term wealth creation.

Who Should Invest in ULIPs?

  • Young Professionals: Looking for long-term wealth and insurance in one product
  • NRIs in UAE: Seeking market exposure while ensuring family protection
  • Parents: Saving for children's higher education or future goals
  • Risk-Tolerant Investors: Willing to ride market fluctuations for higher returns
  • Goal-Based Planners: Align ULIPs with retirement, home buying, or legacy planning

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Key Features of ULIP Plans in the UAE

Here are the key features of investing in best ULIP plans in UAE —

Fund Switching Option

You can switch between different funds (equity, debt, balanced) based on risk appetite and market performance

Lock-in Period

ULIP plans come with a minimum 5-year lock-in period making it ideal for long-term financial goals

Market-Linked Returns

Unlike traditional insurance plans, returns from ULIPs depend on the performance of chosen funds

Transparency

You get regular updates on NAV, charges, and fund performance

Top-Up Facility

 Option to invest surplus income as top-ups to boost your fund value

Partial Withdrawals

Allowed after the lock-in period, offering liquidity for emergencies

Top ULIP Insurance Plans in UAE

ULIP plans can be customised based on the type of fund, end use, or death benefit structure —

Based on Fund Type:

  • Equity ULIPs – High return potential, high risk
  • Debt ULIPs – Lower risk, steady returns
  • Balanced/Hybrid ULIPs – Mix of both equity and debt

Based on Usage:

  • ULIP for Retirement – Converts to annuity at maturity
  • ULIP for Wealth Creation – Long-term capital growth
  • ULIP for Children’s Education – Supports key life milestones

Based on Death Benefit:

  • Type 1 ULIP – Pays the higher of sum assured or fund value
  • Type 2 ULIP – Pays both sum assured and fund value (higher premium)

Some insurers offer lifestyle or goal-based fund allocations (e.g., retirement, education, wealth-building).

Benefits of ULIP Plans in the UAE

Key Benefit Description
Life Coverage Ensures financial protection for your family in case of the policyholder’s untimely demise.
Wealth Creation Offers market-linked growth over the long term—ideal for retirement, education, or wealth accumulation goals.
Tax Benefits Though the UAE has no personal income tax, ULIPs may help with tax efficiency for NRIs subject to home country tax laws.
Flexibility Ability to change fund allocations, make top-ups, or withdraw funds partially post lock-in.
Discipline The lock-in period encourages long-term saving and investment discipline.

How to Buy a ULIP Plan in the UAE?

Buying a Unit Linked Insurance plan in the UAE requires careful planning and consideration. Here is how you can get started: 

  • Assess Your Goals: Retirement planning, child’s education, or long-term wealth creation
  • Compare ULIPs: Use top platforms like Policybazaar.ae to compare ULIP plans by returns, charges, and features
  • Choose Fund Type: Based on your risk appetite—equity (high), debt (low), or balanced (medium)
  • Decide on Premium: Choose a regular or single premium depending on your cash flow.
  • Submit KYC Documents: Emirates ID, Passport, Residence Visa, and proof of income
  • Medical Test (if required): Depending on sum assured and age
  • Policy Issuance: After underwriting approval, your policy is issued and you start tracking your NAV

ULIP Returns in 10 Years: How Much Can You Expect?

  • Historical Performance: Equity-heavy ULIPs have offered average annual returns of 12%–20% over 10+ years.
  • Factors Affecting Returns:
    • Fund type (equity vs. debt)
    • Market performance
    • Duration of investment
    • Charges levied by the insurer
  • Long-Term Strategy: ULIP policies in the UAE are best suited for goals with a 10–15 year horizon to balance out market volatility and maximise returns.

Charges Applicable in ULIP Plans

  • Premium Allocation Charges: Deducted before investing the premium
  • Fund Management Charges: Ongoing charge for managing the investment portfolio
  • Policy Administration Charges: Monthly charge for maintaining the policy
  • Mortality Charges: Cost of life cover provided by the insurer
  • Switching Charges: Some plans offer limited free switches; excess switches may incur a fee
  • Surrender Charges: Applicable if the policy is surrendered before completion of the lock-in period

Common ULIP Plans Myths Busted

Myth

Reality

ULIPs are complex

Modern ULIPs are built with transparency and user-friendliness in mind. Insurers now provide clear disclosures on charges, fund options, and benefits, along with easy online access to manage and monitor policies.

ULIPs have high charges

While ULIPs come with certain charges (like fund management and premium allocation), many plans now have reduced fees or even waive them after a few years. Over the long term, these charges are often outweighed by the wealth creation potential and life cover benefits.

ULIPs have limited options

A wide range of fund options, equity, debt, and balanced, to suit every risk profile. You can even switch between funds based on your market outlook or life goals.

ULIPs lack transparency

Daily NAV updates, online dashboards, and detailed policy documents help you track your performance, understand charges, and stay in control of your investment.

ULIPs have low returns

Equity-oriented ULIPs can deliver competitive, market-linked returns over the long term. If you stay invested for 10–15 years, ULIPs can rival or even outperform traditional investment options.

FAQs on ULIP Plans in UAE

Can I change my fund choice after buying the ULIP?

Yes, most insurers allow multiple free switches annually in your ULIP plans. Additional switches in the plans may be charged.

How can I reduce risk while investing in a ULIP?

To reduce risk start with debt or balanced funds if you're new to investing. Use the fund switch option to move to safer funds during market volatility and monitor your portfolio regularly using the insurer’s online portals and tools.

Are ULIP returns guaranteed?

No. best ULIP plans are market-linked products so the returns vary based on market performance and fund choice.

What happens if I stop paying premiums after a few years?

The policy may lapse or continue with reduced benefits depending on the terms. Some plans offer a grace period or allow converting to a paid-up policy.

Are there any tax implications for ULIPs in UAE?

The UAE has no personal income tax, but NRIs may need to consider tax implications in their home countries.

Can I withdraw funds during the lock-in period?

No. Partial withdrawals from ULIP policy are only allowed after the 5-year lock-in period.

Are ULIPs safe to invest in?

Yes, ULIP plans are considered safe, especially for long-term financial planning as they are regulated by the Insurance Authority in the UAE. They allow you to switch between funds based on market conditions, helping you manage risks actively.

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