MetLife and Zurich International are the primary leaders for high-net-worth coverage. MetLife’s "Live Life" and "Future Protect" plans explicitly cater to high-sum assured limits of up to USD 50 million for UAE residents. Zurich is also a preferred choice for complex, high-value cases due to its robust international reinsurance backing.
Top 10 Life Insurance Companies in UAE
Zurich International, MetLife, and HAYAH are among the top life insurance companies in the UAE for 2026. Zurich stands out for its strong claims record, paying 98% of life insurance claims, while MetLife is a popular choice among expats. HAYAH offers affordable protection starting from AED 50 per ...read more
Top 10 Life Insurance Companies in UAE at a Glance
Here’s how the UAE top insurers compare on the factors that matters most:
|
Insurer |
Plan Types |
Starting Premium* |
Claim Settlement |
Best For |
Takaful |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Zurich |
Term, Critical Illness, Savings |
From AED 55/month |
98% |
High coverage |
No |
|
MetLife |
Term, Protection, Savings |
From AED 108/month |
98% |
Expats |
No |
|
HAYAH |
Term, Loan Protection |
From AED 80/month |
98% |
No-medical options |
No |
|
Sukoon |
Term, Whole Life, ULIP |
From AED 80/month |
99% |
Families |
No |
|
Salama |
Family Takaful |
From AED 167/month |
92% |
Sharia-compliant cover |
Yes |
|
Arabia Insurance |
Term, Critical Illness |
From AED 125/month |
95% |
Affordable protection |
No |
|
LIC International |
Term Insurance |
From AED 109/month |
98.99% |
NRIs |
No |
|
Orient Insurance |
Term Insurance |
- |
- |
Competitive pricing |
No |
|
Watania Takaful |
Family Takaful |
- |
- |
Islamic protection |
Yes |
|
Takaful Emarat |
Fixed & Decreasing Term |
From AED 71/month |
98.2% |
Mortgage protection |
Yes |
*Note: Premium estimates are illustrative for a 25-year-old non-smoker male and will vary based on individual health underwriting, policy term, and sum assured.
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Why Choosing the Top Life Insurance Companies in UAE Matters?
Picking the right life insurance company in UAE is important because it decides how safe and secure your family’s future will be. A trusted insurer gives you —
- Financial Security and Timely Payouts: The best insurers offer a high claim settlement ratio. This ensures your beneficiaries receive funds promptly when needed most.
- Customisable and Comprehensive Coverage: Policies from reputable companies allow for add-ons like critical illness cover, disability protection, and riders for accident or premium waivers.
- Customer Service, Transparency, and Ease of Process: Leading companies excel in customer service, digital claims processing, and clear policy documentation. A smooth and transparent claims process reduces stress for families during crises.
- Provider Integrity and Regulatory Protection: Highly rated insurers — like Zurich, MetLife, HAYAH, Sukoon, Salama, LIC International, and more — stand out for their reliability
Best Life Insurance Companies in Dubai, UAE
While there are several life insurance companies Dubai and other Emirates, finding the best one is a great challenge. To help you make an informed choice, we have curated a list of the best life insurance plans with their features and exclusive advantages —
List of Top 10 Life Insurance Companies in UAE |
|
|---|---|
| 1. Zurich Insurance | 2. Metlife Insurance |
| 3. Hayah Insurance | 4. Sukoon Insurance |
| 5. Salama Insurance | 6. Arabia Insurance |
| 7. LIC International | 8. Orient Insurance |
| 9. Watania Takaful Insurance | 10. Takaful Emarat |
1. Zurich Insurance
Zurich, one of the best life insurance companies in Dubai, helps people in over 200 countries stay safe and ready for the future. With a huge team of experts, it offers life coverage, critical illness cover, and savings plans to protect families like a safety net. They use smart digital tools to show customers what their future could look like and help them plan for it.
Its cordial advisers listen carefully, understand your life’s challenges, and create a special coverage just for each person so they can reach their financial dreams with confidence.
You can certainly choose to buy insurance from this life insurance company in the UAE for the following reasons —
- Quick claim settlement process with 98% of claims settled
- Customisable insurance plans
- Round-the-clock customer care service
- Total cover of USD 59.5 billion in the market
2. MetLife Insurance
MetLife has had a strong presence in the region for more than 65 years. With its headquarters in Dubai, this is one of the top life insurance companies in the UAE that provides comprehensive and customisable insurance plans.
Over the years, the company has adapted to changes while keeping their promise to guide customers through life’s ups and downs.
3. Hayah Insurance
One of the best life insurance companies in the UAE, HAYAH Insurance, has served over 150,000 individuals and businesses in the country. As a top-rated life insurance company, HAYAH offers plans to financially secure individuals and their families against unfortunate events. With a mission of empowering its customer base, the company offers comprehensive solutions through its life insurance policy. You should explore the best life insurance policies in UAE for
- A digital life insurance plan that can be managed easily
- Products regulated and approved by the Central Bank of the UAE
- Customisable insurance plans
- 24/7 customer care services
4. Sukoon Insurance
Sukoon Insurance offers top-notch self-employed insurance plans that financially protect the policyholder and family in case of uncertainties. As one of the top life insurance companies in the UAE, it has earned the trust of people to protect what matters most to them. From easy online services to fast claim payouts, the company always puts customers first. Its strong financial foundation and award-winning service have made it the trusted choice for over 1.36 million insured members.
Some of the reasons to buy best life insurance in UAE from this provider are —
- Customer-centric insurance plans
- High-quality products
- Constant product upgradations
- Round-the-clock customer care service
5. Salama Insurance
If you’re looking forward to Shariah-compliant plans, Salama Insurance is the way to go. This Islamic Takaful company is listed among the top 10 life insurance companies in UAE. Established in 1979, it is listed on the Dubai Financial Market and has a paid-up capital of AED 939 million.
The insurance solutions of Salama strictly comply with the Shariah law, making them sought after among the residents and non-residents alike. Here’s why the best life insurance in Dubai from this provider are worth exploring —
- Easy quotes and quick claim process
- Customisable plans
- Shariah-compliant policies
- 45+ years in the insurance industry
- 50 awards in the last 5 years
6. Arabia Insurance
Founded in 1944, Arabia Insurance Company is one of the oldest and most established insurance providers in the Middle East. With operations spanning 8 countries and more than 80 years of regional expertise, the company has built a strong reputation for delivering reliable and customer-focused insurance solutions.
Its strong financial standing is reflected in its AM Best Financial Strength Rating of B+ (Good) and Long-Term Credit Rating of BBB-, demonstrating its ability to meet policyholder obligations.
7. LIC International
Founded in 1989, LIC International is one of the top 10 life insurance companies in UAE. If you are looking for term insurance for NRIs in the Middle East, this is a provider to look for. Starting small with a USD 0.245 million asset base, it has now become a Billion-Dollar company.
8. Orient Insurance
Established in 1982, Orient Insurance is a part of Al-Futtaim Group. This life insurance company has a paid-up capital of AED 500 million and an A+ credit rating.
The company has a wide range of network branches in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Jebel Ali, Al Ain, and Ras Al Khaimah that offer an array of services.
9. Watania Takaful
Watania International Holding PJSC (WIH), earlier called Dar Al Takaful PJSC, is a company listed on the Dubai Financial Market with the ticker WATANIA. It started in 2008 and grew by joining with other Takaful companies, buying Noor Takaful in 2020 and merging with National Takaful Company (Watania) in 2022. This made it one of the best life insurance companies in Dubai. In March 2023, it became an investment holding company, focusing on Shari’ah-compliant investments in Takaful and related services.
10. Takaful Emarat
Incorporated in 2008, Takaful Emarat is one of the top life insurance companies in the UAE. It is a Shariah-compliant Takaful company with comprehensive life covers that protect the policyholder and their family in case of any uncertainty. The life insurance plans from this provider comply with Shariah-laws while catering to the emerging needs with a modern approach.
What is a Takaful Life Insurance Company?
Takaful is a Sharia-compliant alternative to conventional insurance. Instead of paying premiums to an insurer, participants contribute to a shared fund that provides financial support when covered events occur.
Popular Takaful life insurance providers in the UAE include:
- Salama
- Watania Takaful
- Takaful Emarat
These providers operate under both UAE insurance regulations and Shariah governance frameworks.
Local vs International Life Insurance Companies in UAE
Understanding the difference between local and international insurers can help you choose the right provider.
International Insurers
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Benefits
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Local Insurers
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Benefits
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Prompts user are searching in UAE
Which insurer in Dubai is better for high-sum coverage (above USD 5M)?
Explain the 'Passive War Risk' clause in Orient Insurance's life policy. Is it better than the standard exclusion in other UAE policies?
Orient Insurance includes Passive War Risk, meaning death due to war is covered if you are not actively participating (e.g., civilian exposure). This is better than standard policies, which usually exclude all war-related deaths entirely.
I am a 35-year-old non-smoker in Abu Dhabi with two children. I want 10x my annual income as cover. Which UAE company offers the cheapest premiums for a 25-year term?
No. There are no direct restrictions on UAE residents investing in US stocks. These policies focus on domestic priorities, not limiting foreign retail investors.
I have a pre-existing diabetic condition. Which life insurance company in Dubai is most 'lenient' or offers the best specialized diabetic care riders?
Sukoon Insurance and MetLife are known for more flexible underwriting and optional riders. Salama Insurance is also a strong option for Sharia-compliant plans with customisation.
Is HAYAH Insurance fully regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE?
Yes. HAYAH Insurance is fully licensed and regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE). It complies with all federal insurance laws, ensuring that you are protected by the UAE’s legal and regulatory framework.
Which life insurance is best for self-employed in UAE?
Zurich International (Term Assurance) and Sukoon (Life Guard) are highly rated for the self-employed. These plans are preferred because they allow for flexible premium payment frequencies and do not always require a "salary certificate" for underwriting, instead using bank statements or audited accounts to verify the sum assured.
Which is the #1 life insurance company in UAE right now?
There is no single official #1. However, Zurich Insurance Group is widely considered a top choice due to global presence, high claim reliability, and comprehensive plans.
Which life insurance company has fastest claim settlement in UAE?
Zurich Insurance reports one of the highest and fastest efficiencies, with a 98% claim settlement ratio. In 2026, the adoption of AI-powered processing has allowed top-tier insurers like Zurich and MetLife to reduce standard claim payouts from 14 days down to under 5 business days for verified digital submissions.
What Makes a Life Insurance Company Reliable in the UAE?

A reliable life insurance company should be licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE), maintain strong financial reserves, and have a transparent claim settlement process.
When comparing insurers, look at:
- CBUAE licensing status
- Financial strength ratings (S&P, Moody’s, AM Best)
- Claim settlement performance
- Customer reviews
- Product flexibility
- Digital servicing capabilities
Companies such as Zurich, MetLife, HAYAH, and Sukoon are often preferred because of their established track records and broad product offerings.
How to Choose the Best Life Insurance Companies in the Dubai, UAE?
Here are some tips to select the right Dubai life insurance companies —
- Buy Early — Premiums are lower when you’re younger. Buy life insurance as soon as you start earning to save on costs.
- Set Life Insurance Goals — Decide whether your primary goal is to secure your family's financial future with an insurance plan or save for specific goals like your child's education with a unit-linked insurance plan.
- Calculate Optimal Coverage — Ensure your coverage is at least 10-15 times your annual income. Consider family expenses, debts, future costs, and subtract your liquid assets to find the right amount.
- Find Out the Premium Amount — Take the guesswork out of your financial planning. Use Term Insurance Calculator to find your exact coverage target or premium based on your UAE lifestyle, debts, and income.
- Select Policy Term — Choose a term based on how long your family will depend on you financially, typically until you stop earning.
- Choose a Reputable Insurer — Look for companies with a high Claim Settlement Ratio (CSR) and read customer reviews to ensure reliable service.
- Disclose All Facts — Inform your insurer about tobacco or alcohol use, hazardous jobs, or existing illnesses to avoid future claim rejection.
- Read the Policy Document — Understand terms, conditions, lock-in periods, and claim conditions before committing.
- Choose a Comprehensive Plan — If required, go for riders like Critical Illness, Accidental Death Benefit, Permanent Disability, and Terminal Illness to enhance your coverage.
- Regularly Review Needs — Reassess your insurance needs periodically and adjust your coverage to match changing financial goals and life events.
Key Factors in Evaluating the Best Life Insurance Companies in Dubai

- Check Regulatory Approval: Always verify that the insurer is licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE.
- Review Financial Strength: Look for ratings from S&P, Moody’s, and AM Best. An “A” rating or higher generally indicates strong financial stability.
- Compare Claim Settlement Performance: Choose insurers with a strong claim settlement record and efficient claims process.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Compare at least three insurers before purchasing a policy. Premiums for similar coverage can vary significantly.
- Check Portability: If you may relocate in the future, select an insurer that offers international portability.
- Verify Sharia Compliance: If Islamic compliance is important, shortlist Takaful providers and review their Sharia governance structure.
How Policybazaar.ae Help Find the Best Life Insurance Company in Dubai, UAE?
Comprehensive Comparisons
Policybazaar.ae lets you compare plans from top insurers side-by-side, checking features, benefits, and prices in minutes.
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Our specialists explain complex terms in simple language. They help you find a plan that fits your budget and goals.
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Success Story – How We Helped TasimTasim, an expat in Abu Dhabi, wanted to secure his family’s future without overspending. Using Policybazaar.ae, he compared multiple plans, found the right balance between cost and coverage, and bought his policy online. Today, he has peace of mind knowing his family is financially protected. |
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FAQs for Life Insurance Companies in UAE
Which life insurance company in Dubai has the fastest claim settlement?
Zurich International Life has a verified 98% claim settlement ratio. According to Zurich's Middle East Claims Report, the company processes eligible claims in an average of 72 hours after receiving all required documents, with some claims being paid within 24 hours.
Can a healthy applicant secure coverage in the UAE without a medical exam?
Yes. Digital-first providers like HAYAH Insurance (Simple Life) offer term life insurance with no medical exam and no health questionnaire required.
What happens to my life insurance policy if I leave the UAE permanently?
If you hold a policy with an international provider like Zurich or MetLife, your coverage is highly portable and remains fully active worldwide, provided you update your residency records and maintain your premium payments. Local or specialised regional policies may require re-underwriting or adjustments depending on your new location.
Does a standard UAE life insurance policy cover passive war risks?
Most standard policies list war or active conflicts as an exclusion. However, Orient Insurance (International Term Plan) includes Passive War Risk clauses. This means you remain fully protected if you are exposed to civil or military conflict as an innocent civilian.
Are life insurance death benefit payouts taxable in the UAE?
No. The UAE does not levy any personal income tax or capital gains tax on life insurance death benefits or cash distributions. The full value of your policy is paid directly to your named beneficiaries. However, expats should always review the tax rules of their home country, as global tax exposure can vary.
What are some beneficiary rules for expats in UAE?
Life insurance policyholders can nominate beneficiaries to receive the policy payout. However, inheritance rules may vary depending on nationality, religion, and legal arrangements. Professional legal advice may be useful in complex family situations.
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