Ras Al Khaimah
Insurance
Sections
1. Health Insurance
Overview:
Health insurance is mandatory in the UAE, including Ras Al Khaimah. Employers are required to provide health insurance for their employees, but dependents (spouse, children, domestic workers) are typically the responsibility of the individual.
Types of Health Insurance Plans:
- Basic Plans: Cover essential medical services such as general consultations, emergency care, and basic treatments.
- Comprehensive Plans: Include specialist consultations, maternity care, dental, optical, and sometimes alternative medicine.
- Visitor Health Insurance: Short-term plans for tourists and visitors, covering emergency medical expenses during their stay.
Costs:
- Basic Plans: AED 600โ1,500 per year (for low-income workers or dependents).
- Comprehensive Plans: AED 3,000โ15,000 per year, depending on coverage and age.
- Visitor Insurance: AED 50โ200 per week, depending on the duration and coverage.
How to Obtain:
- For Residents:
- Provided by your employer or purchased individually through licensed insurance providers.
- Submit your Emirates ID, passport copy, and visa details.
- For Visitors:
- Purchase online or through travel agencies before arriving in the UAE.
- Some airlines (e.g., Emirates) offer health insurance as part of the ticket.
Local Considerations:
- Health insurance is linked to visa issuance and renewal. Proof of coverage is required for residency visa applications.
- The RAK government has a list of approved insurance providers. Ensure you choose a licensed company.
2. Car Insurance
Overview:
Car insurance is mandatory in Ras Al Khaimah for all vehicle owners. Policies must comply with UAE federal regulations.
Types of Car Insurance:
- Third-Party Liability: Covers damages to others (vehicles, property, or injuries) caused by your car. This is the minimum legal requirement.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Covers third-party liability as well as damages to your own vehicle due to accidents, theft, fire, or natural disasters.
Costs:
- Third-Party Insurance: AED 1,000โ2,000 per year.
- Comprehensive Insurance: AED 2,500โ5,000 per year, depending on the carโs value, driverโs age, and driving history.
How to Obtain:
- Choose a licensed insurance provider in RAK (e.g., Oman Insurance, AXA, or RSA).
- Provide the following documents:
- Emirates ID
- Driverโs license
- Vehicle registration card (Mulkiya)
- No-claims certificate (optional, for discounts).
- Pay the premium and receive your policy.
Local Considerations:
- Premiums are higher for new drivers or those under 25 years old.
- Driving without insurance is illegal and can result in heavy fines and vehicle impoundment.
3. Property Insurance
Overview:
Property insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended for homeowners and renters in Ras Al Khaimah. It protects against risks such as fire, theft, and natural disasters.
Types of Property Insurance:
- Homeownerโs Insurance: Covers the building structure and contents.
- Renterโs Insurance: Covers personal belongings within a rented property.
- Landlord Insurance: Protects rental property owners against damages and loss of rental income.
Costs:
- Homeownerโs Insurance: AED 500โ2,000 per year, depending on property value and coverage.
- Renterโs Insurance: AED 300โ1,000 per year.
- Landlord Insurance: AED 1,000โ3,000 per year.
How to Obtain:
- Contact a licensed insurance provider in RAK.
- Provide property details (location, size, value).
- Choose the coverage and pay the premium.
Local Considerations:
- Some landlords may require tenants to have renterโs insurance.
- Ensure the policy covers natural disasters, as RAK occasionally experiences heavy rains and flooding.
4. Travel Insurance
Overview:
Travel insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended for visitors and residents traveling abroad. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other travel-related risks.
Types of Travel Insurance:
- Single-Trip Insurance: Covers one trip for a specific duration.
- Multi-Trip Insurance: Covers multiple trips within a year.
- Schengen Travel Insurance: Mandatory for UAE residents applying for a Schengen visa.
Costs:
- Single-Trip Insurance: AED 50โ200 per trip.
- Multi-Trip Insurance: AED 500โ1,500 per year.
- Schengen Insurance: AED 100โ300 per trip.
How to Obtain:
- Purchase online or through travel agencies.
- Provide your travel itinerary and personal details.
- Pay the premium and receive the policy.
Local Considerations:
- Some countries require proof of travel insurance for visa applications.
- Check if your health insurance covers international travel to avoid duplicate coverage.
5. Life Insurance
Overview:
Life insurance is optional but widely available in Ras Al Khaimah. It provides financial security to your family in case of death or disability.
Types of Life Insurance:
- Term Life Insurance: Covers a specific period and pays out a lump sum upon death.
- Whole Life Insurance: Provides lifelong coverage and includes a savings component.
- Critical Illness Insurance: Covers major illnesses like cancer or heart disease.
Costs:
- AED 1,000โ5,000 per year, depending on age, health, and coverage amount.
How to Obtain:
- Contact a licensed insurance provider.
- Undergo a medical examination (if required).
- Provide personal details and pay the premium.
Local Considerations:
- Some employers offer group life insurance as part of employee benefits.
- Policies are available in both Islamic (Takaful) and conventional formats.
6. Other Types of Insurance
- Business Insurance: Protects businesses against risks like liability, property damage, and employee-related claims. Costs vary based on business size and coverage.
- Pet Insurance: Covers veterinary expenses for pets. Costs range from AED 500โ2,000 per year.
- Personal Accident Insurance: Covers accidental death or disability. Costs start at AED 300 per year.
General Tips for Insurance in Ras Al Khaimah
- Licensed Providers: Always choose insurance companies licensed by the UAE Insurance Authority (IA).
- Comparison: Use online platforms like Souqalmal or Policybazaar to compare policies and premiums.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Islamic (Takaful) insurance is available for those who prefer Sharia-compliant options.
- Renewals: Ensure timely renewal of policies to avoid penalties or lapses in coverage.
- Customer Support: Most providers offer 24/7 customer service in multiple languages, including Arabic and English.
By understanding the types of insurance available, their costs, and the procedures for obtaining them, you can ensure financial security and compliance with local regulations in Ras Al Khaimah.