Qatar Sees A Surge in Travel Insurance Sales Ahead of Eid al-Fitr - Travel And Tour World (2025)

Sunday, March 30, 2025

Qatar Insurance Company (QIC) has observed a significant surge in travel insurance demand ahead of the Eid al-Fitr holiday, indicative of increased international travel activity among residents and visitors. This trend aligns with Qatar’s mandatory health insurance policies for travelers.​

Mandatory Health Insurance for Visitors

As of February 1, 2023, Qatar requires all visitors to possess a health insurance policy covering emergency and accident services. The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) mandates that this policy be obtained from approved providers, with a standard premium of 50 Qatari Riyals (approximately $13.50 USD) per month. This initiative aims to ensure that visitors have access to necessary medical services during their stay. ​

Increased Outbound Travel and Insurance Uptake

QIC reports a 50% increase in travel insurance policies issued for outbound trips during the Eid period compared to the previous year. European destinations remain popular, with over 55% of policyholders traveling to Schengen countries such as Poland, France, Germany, Croatia, and Portugal. The United Kingdom also continues to be a favored destination.​

Inbound Travel and Insurance Compliance

The influx of international visitors to Qatar during Eid has also contributed to the rise in insurance sales. Travelers from Saudi Arabia, India, Algeria, Turkey, and the United States are among the top purchasers of both general travel policies and Qatar’s mandatory visitor health insurance. This compliance ensures that visitors are covered for emergency medical services during their stay.​

QIC’s Commitment to Traveler Protection

Ahmed Al Jarboey, QIC’s Chief Operating Officer for Qatar operations, emphasized the company’s dedication to providing comprehensive insurance solutions. He highlighted that the Eid al-Fitr break is a prime travel period, and QIC offers a range of plans to ensure worry-free journeys for all travelers. Their travel insurance products are designed to protect against unexpected financial burdens, aligning with Qatar’s health insurance mandates.​

Tailored Insurance Plans

QIC offers various coverage levels to cater to different traveler needs:​

• Worldwide Plan: Covers emergency medical incidents, delays, and loss of personal documents.​
• Fly Europe Plan: Provides up to $50,000 in medical coverage for travel within Europe.​
• Regional Plan: Tailored for travel to the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and the Gulf, covering medical costs, accidents, and legal expenses.​

For international arrivals, QIC facilitates access to Qatar’s required visitor health insurance, with prices starting at QAR 50 per month. This plan covers urgent medical needs during the visitor’s stay.​

Conclusion

The observed increase in travel insurance sales reflects a heightened awareness among travelers about the importance of coverage during international trips, especially in light of Qatar’s mandatory health insurance requirements. QIC’s diverse insurance offerings ensure that both outbound and inbound travelers can enjoy their Eid al-Fitr holidays with peace of mind, knowing they are protected against unforeseen circumstances.​