Demand for travel insurance surges as disruptions loom large in region

Spike in queries related to coverage scope, indicating that travellers are more discerning now, say experts

- Angel Tesorero

Recent travel disruptions across the Middle East region have contributed to an uptick in demand for travel insurance. Travellers are actively seeking protection against such contingencies, an insurance company confirmed to Khaleej Times on Thursday, a week after Israel and Iran exchanged missile attacks.

UAE airlines have been forced to extend flight cancellations to several destinations - including Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Iran, and Israel - due to the rapidly spiralling armed conflict. Some travellers from the UAE have changed their destinations at the last minute. In contrast, others have deliberately chosen countries unaffected by suspended air routes, hoping to avoid any surprises that could delay their return.

Still, many Emiratis and expats are gearing up for summer travel, as they do every year. For them, travelling is not just a vacation; it's a personal or family tradition that they are unwilling to abandon.

It's important to note, however, that most standard travel insurance policies do not cover claims arising directly from geo-political unrest or military conflict.

Toshita Chauhan, chief business officer-general insurance at Policybazaar.ae, explained to Khaleej Times, "Claims arising directly from geo-political unrest or military conflict remain excluded under typical policy terms.