Etihad, the UAE’s national carrier has decided to offer free travel insurance to visitors heading to the UAE.
The decision came as a partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi to provide complimentary medical travel insurance with The National Insurance Company – Daman, to all international visitors arriving in Abu Dhabi on Etihad-operated flights.
The initiative illustrates the ambition of both Etihad and DCT Abu Dhabi to meet travel demand to Abu Dhabi, with an offering that goes beyond the flight itself and ensuring every visitor arrives well-travelled and well-protected, they said in a press release sent to Green Prophet.
Valid from July through December 2026, the insurance is underwritten and administered by The National Insurance Company – Daman, part of PureHealth, and covers eligible visitors for up to 15 days in the UAE.
There is no formal application required, cover is automatically given with every qualifying Etihad ticket. Any guest flying to Abu Dhabi on an Etihad-operated service, with point of origin and point of sale outside the UAE, is eligible. Travellers using Etihad’s complimentary Stopover Programme to spend time in Abu Dhabi are also covered for the duration of their stay. Terms and conditions apply.
Visit Sharjah’s ghost village Ad Madam before it’s swallowed by sand
The attacks by Iran on the UAE have had an impact on both international travels, global nomads, and temporary workers. But the new travel insurance perk might not guarantee you a ride on the Mile High Club but it will save you about $100 in travel insurance. If the UAE is part of a series of stops or stopovers make sure you get insurance for the fist or last leg of the journey.
This is an ecological or sustainable issue because access to healthcare is a concern to many travelers looking for work in the UAE. The two weeks can be a buffer until they find gainful employment.
His Excellency Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Global interest in Abu Dhabi continues to grow, reflecting the destination’s unparalleled year-round cultural, tourism and entertainment offering. This initiative ensures we meet that demand with an exceptional, end-to-end visitor experience.
“Our partnership with Etihad will set a new benchmark for destination standards and ensure our guests feel welcomed, valued, and cared for from the moment they book.”
What do do in the UAE?
Start with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the cultural energy of Saadiyat Island and the thrills of Yas Island. I’d be most interested in exploring the dunes and oases, ghost towns in the dunes and artificial islands with maybe a tour around the zero energy city Masdar even though it sort of failed. What about you?
