UAE travel insurance demand jumps 45% ahead of holiday getaways
Social media trends influence destinations and insurance purchases globally
DUBAI – Travel insurance demand in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has surged sharply, with Policybazaar.ae reporting a 45% increase in queries for Q4 2025 compared with the same period last year.
The rise aligns with the busy travel window around UAE National Day, Christmas, New Year, and the December school break. Higher outbound travel and increasing awareness of travel-related risks are steering more residents toward securing cover before departure.
The trend mirrors sustained global and regional tourism activity, with stronger confidence in international travel and broader adoption of digital tools simplifying purchasing processes across multiple budgets.
What’s driving demand?
Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States remain the top destinations for UAE travellers. Policybazaar.ae has also recorded a 48% rise in inbound visitors purchasing travel insurance through its platform, supported by the UAE’s expanding roster of attractions, cultural offerings, and international events.
Shifts in traveller behaviour are shaping the surge in insurance uptake. Interest in adventure and nature-led activities such as hiking, trekking, and wildlife experiences continues to grow, with serenity and open landscapes emerging as strong motivators for holiday planning. Solo trips are rising as well, including a gradual increase in women travellers independently purchasing insurance.
Who’s purchasing cover?
Travellers aged between 28 and 45 account for the largest share of customers, reflecting a demographic that places high value on comprehensive protection and seamless digital access to insurance products. Social media is increasingly influencing destination decisions and insurance purchases, offering real-time insights and peer recommendations that shape planning.
The most frequently filed claims this season include cancellations, delays, misplaced baggage, and medical emergencies. Ongoing geopolitical developments have also prompted travellers to choose more extensive policies, often at higher premiums, to ensure coverage across a wider range of scenarios.
How are insurers responding?
Toshita Chauhan, Chief Business Officer – General Insurance at Policybazaar.ae, said travellers today are significantly more aware of international travel risks and view insurance as a necessity. She noted a clear shift toward informed decision-making, especially during peak seasons. Insurers are adjusting their portfolio of products accordingly, offering broader and more flexible cover options to align with modern travel patterns.
Industry data reflects the wider global momentum in the travel protection sector. According to Grand View Research, the global travel insurance market is projected to reach $63.87 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of 15.4% from 2025 to 2030. The growth is being propelled by strong global tourism activity and the rapid adoption of AI-driven tools and digital platforms that simplify comparisons and policy management.
Where Policybazaar.ae fits in
Launched in 2018, Policybazaar.ae is the first overseas venture of PB Fintech Group. The platform partners with over 35 insurance institutions, offering more than 400 products including life, health, motor, and SME insurance. Its focus on education and accessibility has played a significant role in raising awareness of insurance as a protection tool in the UAE, while providing a comprehensive digital marketplace for personal finance needs.