Do I really need travel insurance for Dubai?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for Dubai. Although getting cover isn't a legal requirement for tourists from the UK, medical care in Dubai can be very expensive if something goes wrong. Travel insurance gives you peace of mind you’re covered for medical treatment, trip cancellations, lost belongings and other unexpected events.

What should my travel insurance for Dubai include?

Look for a policy that includes: Emergency medical cover: Ideally with high limits, as healthcare costs can add up quickly. Repatriation cover: In case you need to be flown home for treatment. Cover for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage. Trip cancellation or disruption protection: To help you recover costs if plans change due to illness or other emergencies. Make sure your policy also covers personal liability in case of accidental damage or injury

Does travel insurance cover activities that I might do while I'm there?

That depends on your policy. Standard travel insurance often includes low-risk activities like sightseeing, swimming and visiting theme parks. If you plan to go dune bashing, camel riding, water sports or do anything adventurous, check your insurer includes these. You may need to add extra cover for high-risk activities.

How can I stay safe when travelling in Dubai?

Dubai is generally very safe, but it’s important to follow local laws and customs: Follow modest dress codes in public places; Only drink alcohol in licensed venues, and avoid being drunk in public; Never use or carry drugs, even in trace amounts; Respect local traditions, especially during Ramadan; Use licensed taxis or ride apps, and always carry valid ID Check the latest UAE travel advice

What should I do if I lose my passport in Dubai?

If you lose your passport in Dubai, don’t panic but act quickly. Here's what to do: 1. Report the loss to the police straight away and get a police report. You’ll need this to apply for a replacement 2. Contact the British Embassy or Consulate. They can help you get an emergency travel document so you can return home. 3. Tell your travel insurer. You may be able to claim for the cost of replacement documents 4. Check airline rules. Some carriers may need extra paperwork to let you board with an emergency document To avoid delays, keep a copy of your passport and travel insurance in a separate bag or saved securely online. Read more: What to do if you lose your passport

Travel insurance for Dubai

Discover top places to visit, tips on staying safe and why travel insurance is essential for an unforgettable Dubai adventure.

Get ready for your Dubai adventure

Dubai is a place where old traditions meet modern life. Whether you're exploring the bustling souks, experiencing luxury shopping or taking a desert safari, this iconic city offers an exciting mix of culture and adventure.

Planning your trip is part of the excitement but it’s also important to be prepared. Getting the right travel insurance should be one of the first things on your list. In this guide, you’ll find top places to visit, safety tips and how to avoid unexpected costs while you’re away.

In this guide

Top 10 places to visit in Dubai
Why travel insurance is important
Travel risks and considerations
Medical care and vaccinations
Getting around
Visas and entry requirements
Common questions about Dubai travel

Top 10 places to visit in Dubai

Dubai is known for its futuristic skyline, luxury shopping and cultural heritage. Here are 10 must-visit attractions:

Burj Khalifa skyscraper in Dubai, viewed from below, with a clear blue sky and palm trees on either side

1. Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa, in Downtown Dubai, is currently the world's tallest building, standing at 828m (or 2,717 feet). You can visit one of its three observation decks to see amazing views of the city, especially at sunset. While you're there, you can also enjoy fine dining at the At.Mosphere restaurant or relax with drinks at The Lounge on one of the highest floors.

The Dubai Waterfall inside Dubai Mall, with metallic sculptures of divers, set in a multi-level space with glass ceilings and people below

2. The Dubai Mall
Standing proud next to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall is one of the biggest shopping centres in the world. Inside, you’ll find hundreds of shops, from high-street brands to luxury labels, plus countless places to eat and drink. But it’s not all about shopping. You can also glide your way around the Olympic-sized ice rink, meet sea creatures at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo or watch a film at the cinema. There’s even a VR Park for virtual reality games and a huge indoor waterfall that makes an impressive photo spot.

Aerial view of Dubai Marina with yachts in turquoise water, surrounded by modern high-rise buildings and waterfront greenery

3. Dubai Marina
A modern, waterfront neighbourhood, Dubai Marina is known for its tall skyscrapers, stylish apartments and scenic promenade. Take a stroll or cycle along the Marina Walk, which is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants or take in the views of the Dubai skyline from the water with a boat cruise. In the evening, the area comes alive with vibrant nightlife, offering live music, rooftop lounges and plenty of dining options.

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Aerial view of Palm Jumeirah, a palm-shaped island in Dubai with homes and hotels surrounded by the sea

4. The Palm Jumeirah
The Palm Jumeriah is a man-made island that’s been shaped to look like a palm tree. It stretches out into the sea and is home to luxury hotels like Atlantis, The Palm. The island has beautiful beaches, a large waterpark and a huge aquarium. You can relax on its sandy shores, try jet-skiing or paddleboarding, or enjoy the view from the observation deck at The Palm.

Camels with colourful blankets resting on sand dunes at Dubai Desert Safari under a bright sky

5. Dubai Desert Safari

Want to see more than just the city? Take on an exciting adventure with the Dubai desert safari. You can go dune bashing in a 4x4 car, ride a camel or try sandboarding down the dunes. Many tours stop at a traditional desert camp where you can enjoy a barbecue dinner and watch cultural shows like belly dancing and tanoura spinning. It’s a fun way to explore the desert and learn about local traditions.

Dubai Fountain at night with lit water jets and tall buildings in the background

6. The Dubai Fountain
Found next to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. It shoots water up to 150m in the air, all timed to music and colourful lights. The show runs every 30 minutes in the evening and is free to watch. For a closer view, you can take a fountain boardwalk or book a boat ride on Burj Lake during the show.

Market stall with antiques and art in Dubai’s Al Fahidi Historical District, set under shade sails with traditional buildings in the background

7. Al Fahidi Historical District
Step back in time at the Al Fahidi Historical District. It’s one of the oldest parts of the city, with its narrow lanes, traditional wind towers, mud-brick houses and museums that show what life was like before the city became modern. You can also visit art galleries, sip Arabic coffee in a quiet courtyard cafe or take part in cultural workshops that teach you more about Emirati life and history.

Traditional wooden boats on the water at Dubai Marina, with low-rise buildings and a mosque minaret in the background

8. Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek is a natural waterway that separates old and new Dubai. For a scenic and affordable way to travel, hop on a traditional abra boat for a short ride across the creek. You’ll find souks, or markets, along the banks, where you can shop for spices, golds and textiles and watch wooden dhows being loaded with goods, just like in the past.

Aerial view of Jumeirah Beach with resorts, sandy shore, and yachts in clear blue water

9. Jumeirah Beach

Jumeirah Beach is one of Dubai’s most popular spots to relax and swim. The beach has soft white sands, clear blue waters and amazing views of the Burj Al Arab, one of the world’s most famous hotels. There are areas for walking, cycling and water sports, plus cafés and food trucks nearby if you want a snack or cold drink.

Dubai Frame, a 150m tall, gold-patterned structure, with the city skyline including Burj Khalifa visible through its centre

10. Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is one of the city’s most eye-catching landmarks. Shaped like a giant picture frame, this impressive structure stands at 150m tall and offers amazing views of both old and new Dubai from the top. Take the lift up to the Sky Deck where you can walk across a glass floor and look straight down, if you’re brave enough. Inside, you’ll find exhibits that show how the city has changed over the years, from a fishing village to a global city.

Why it’s important to have travel insurance for Dubai

You don’t have to take out travel insurance for Dubai but not having it can be risky. The benefits outweigh the risks, especially as medical care, if you need it, can be expensive in Dubai. Travel insurance can help cover these costs.

Travel insurance can also help protect you against other things too. This includes trip cancellations and delays or lost or stolen belongings.

What does travel insurance cover for Dubai trips?

Post Office Travel Insurance can help if something unexpected happens while you’re in Dubai. It can cover:

Emergency medical costs: If you get ill or hurt, we can help pay for your treatment and help you get back home. Our policies also include 24/7 outpatient support
Cancelling or cutting your trip short: If you have to cancel or come home early for a reason listed in your policy, we’ll pay you back for unused travel and hotel bookings up to the policy limits
Lost, stolen or damaged belongings: Like your suitcase, passport or money. Check the cover limits and make sure you report any loss to the police within 48 hours
Missed or delayed flights: If your international transport is late or you miss it (for certain reasons and with certain cover levels)
Personal accidents and legal costs: If something serious happens, we can help with legal fees and personal accident claims

You can choose our economy, standard or premier cover level, depending on how much protection you want.

What doesn’t travel insurance cover for Dubai?

Travel insurance helps with a lot but not everything. You might not be able to claim if:

You don’t tell us about a pre-existing medical condition when you take out your policy
You do risky sports without the right cover
You get hurt, cause damage or lose your possessions due to alcohol
You break the law or go against local guidance abroad
You miss a flight by mistake, such as sleeping through your alarm

Always check your policy carefully so you know what is and isn’t covered.

What extra cover can you pay to add?

You can pay to add extra protection to your policy if needed, including:

Gadget cover: For smartphones, tablets, laptops and other devices
Excess waiver: So you won’t need to pay the first part of a claim
Trip disruption cover: In case your trip is affected by Covid-19, natural catastrophes, terrorism or airspace disruption
Extended trip cover: So you can travel for longer on an annual multi-trip policy
Cruise cover: Essential if you’re taking a cruise
Winter sports cover: Covers the additional risks involved in skiing, snowboarding or similar

This way, you can tailor your insurance to the specifics of your Dubai trip.

Dubai skyline with Burj Khalifa, modern buildings, outdoor seating, and a palm tree under a partly cloudy sky

Travel risks and considerations for Dubai

Legal and safety:

Crime is low in Dubai, but you should take the usual safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in quiet or unfamiliar areas, especially if you're travelling alone. Use licensed taxis or ride apps like Uber
Alcohol is only allowed in licensed venues such as hotels, restaurants and bars. Drinking or appearing drunk in public, even at the airport, can lead to arrest. Alcohol is fully banned in Sharjah
Drug laws are extremely strict. Even tiny amounts in your system from use before arrival can lead to arrest. Drug possession or trafficking can result in long prison sentences or the death penalty

Behaviour and cultural norms:

Modest dress is expected in public. Shoulders and upper legs should be covered and see-through or revealing clothing is discouraged. Swimwear is fine at hotel pools, beaches and resorts but cover up before leaving those areas
Unmarried couples may face restrictions. Sex outside marriage is illegal and, in some hotels, you may be asked to book separate rooms. This is especially true in more conservative areas
Same-sex relationships are illegal and public displays of affection, especially between same-sex couples, can lead to arrest. While private life is generally respected, the law does not recognise LGBTQ+ identities or relationships
Criticism of the UAE or expressing sympathy for Qatar (especially online) is a criminal offence

During Ramadan:

Don't eat, drink or smoke in public during daylight hours. Many hotels and resorts have private dining areas where tourists can eat during the day

Travel admin:

Carry your passport or valid ID at all times. Photocopies may not be accepted if you're asked to show identification

Medical care and vaccinations for Dubai

Dubai has world-class healthcare but treatment can be expensive, especially for tourists.

Travel insurance should cover medical treatment, emergencies and repatriation
No vaccines are needed for entry into Dubai, but it’s a good idea to be up to date on routine immunisations like measles, tetanus and polio
In emergencies, you can call 999 for an ambulance, 998 for a fire or 997 for police

Dubai Metro train on elevated tracks with city skyline at sunset

Getting around Dubai

Dubai has a modern and well-connected transport system, making it easy to get around.

Metro: The Dubai Metro is clean, air-conditioned and easy to use. It connects major attractions, Downtown Dubai and the airport
Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but it’s best to use official RTA taxis or apps like Careem or Uber
Car rentals: You can rent a car but traffic can be heavy and parking is expensive in popular areas. You’ll also need an international driving permit if your license isn’t in English or Arabic
Buses: Dubai has a reliable and budget-friendly bus network which covers most of the city
Trams and Monorail: The Dubai Tram runs through Dubai Marina and Jumeriah Beach Residence. The Palm Monorail connects the mainland to Palm Jumeriah, stopping at attractions like Atlantis, The Palm

Visas and entry requirements

UK passport holders can get a free 30-day visa on arrival. This visa can usually be extended once for another 30 days, but you’ll need to apply before it expires.

Key takeaways

Dubai is packed with unforgettable experiences. From record-breaking skyscrapers to desert safaris and cultural heritage sights, there’s something to suit every kind of traveller
Travel insurance can help protect your plans and your pocket. It can cover medical emergencies, cancellations, delays and lost or stolen belongings, giving you peace of mind while you explore
Be aware of local laws and customs. Dubai is safe and welcoming but there are strict rules around dress, behaviour, alcohol and relationships. Knowing the basics can help you avoid problems

Planning a trip to Dubai? Get covered with travel insurance

Travel insurance

Common questions about Dubai travel

Travel insurance is highly recommended for Dubai.

Although getting cover isn't a legal requirement for tourists from the UK, medical care in Dubai can be very expensive if something goes wrong. Travel insurance gives you peace of mind you’re covered for medical treatment, trip cancellations, lost belongings and other unexpected events.
Look for a policy that includes:
- Emergency medical cover: Ideally with high limits, as healthcare costs can add up quickly
- Repatriation cover: In case you need to be flown home for treatment
- Cover for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage
- Trip cancellation or disruption protection: To help you recover costs if plans change due to illness or other emergencies. Make sure your policy also covers personal liability in case of accidental damage or injury
That depends on your policy. Standard travel insurance often includes low-risk activities like sightseeing, swimming and visiting theme parks. If you plan to go dune bashing, camel riding, water sports or do anything adventurous, check your insurer includes these. You may need to add extra cover for high-risk activities.
Dubai is generally very safe, but it’s important to follow local laws and customs:
- Follow modest dress codes in public places
- Only drink alcohol in licensed venues, and avoid being drunk in public
- Never use or carry drugs, even in trace amounts
- Respect local traditions, especially during Ramadan
- Use licensed taxis or ride apps, and always carry valid ID
Check the latest UAE travel advice
If you lose your passport in Dubai, don’t panic but act quickly. Here's what to do:
1. Report the loss to the police straight away and get a police report. You’ll need this to apply for a replacement
2. Contact the British Embassy or Consulate. They can help you get an emergency travel document so you can return home.
3. Tell your travel insurer. You may be able to claim for the cost of replacement documents
4. Check airline rules. Some carriers may need extra paperwork to let you board with an emergency document
To avoid delays, keep a copy of your passport and travel insurance in a separate bag or saved securely online.

Read more: What to do if you lose your passport

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