What you need to know when visiting Schengen countries from the UAE

Travelling to Schengen countries from the UAE can be an exciting adventure, but it's essential to be prepared for any unexpected situations. One crucial aspect of travel preparation is having the right travel insurance. 

Please note any claims eligibility is subject to the terms and conditions of the travel insurance product you are purchasing. The reasons stated in this article are indicative and not binding. It is highly recommended to read our terms and conditions to see the exclusions, limits, and conditions of our products. You can see all of the steps regarding making claims in the Allianz Travel Terms & Conditions,

Without further delay, let’s dive into the travel insurance guide below.

Travel insurance is a type of insurance policy that provides financial protection and assistance to travellers in the case of unforeseen events or emergencies while on their trip. It offers comprehensive coverage for various travel-related risks, giving you peace of mind while exploring new places. Let's look at the multiple aspects of travel insurance and its coverage.

Travel insurance policies are designed to address a wide range of potential risks that travellers may face before or during their trip. This coverage varies depending on the policy and insurer, but it usually includes the following:

Medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation

Travel insurance typically covers medical expenses incurred due to illness or injury while travelling. This can include hospitalisation and emergency medical transportation if needed.

Trip cancellation and interruption

Suppose you have to cancel or cut short your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness, injury, or other covered reasons. In that case, travel insurance can reimburse you for some of the expenses you have incurred, such as flights and accommodation.

Baggage loss or delay

Travel insurance provides coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage. It can reimburse you for the value of your lost items or cover the costs of essential items if your baggage is delayed beyond a specific timeframe.

You should however always read the terms and conditions before purchasing a travel insurance policy as this document will give you the details of the benefits related to your travel insurance as well as the limits, exclusions and other conditions. 

A Schengen visa is a document that allows travellers to visit and move freely within the 27 member countries of the Schengen area. Please note that not all nationalities require a Schengen visa. The need for a Schengen country depends on your nationality and not on your country of residence. You should check the requirements based on your country of nationality to see if you need to apply for a Schengen visa 

Application process 

If you are a UAE resident planning to obtain a Schengen visa, you must submit your visa application at the consulate or embassy of the Schengen country you intend to visit. The application process typically involves completing an application form, providing supporting documents (such as a passport, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and travel insurance), and paying the visa fee.

Mandatory travel insurance

One of the crucial requirements for obtaining a Schengen visa is having adequate travel insurance coverage. The insurance policy must meet specific criteria, such as a minimum coverage amount for medical expenses and repatriation. It's crucial to ensure that your travel insurance meets these requirements to avoid any complications during the visa application process.

At Allianz Travel all our single-Trip travel insurance products are Schengen-visa compliant.  

Validity and duration 

The Schengen visa allows you to stay within the Schengen area for a specific period, typically up to 90 days within 180 days. The visa's validity will depend on your travel dates and the consulate's decision. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly and apply for the visa with sufficient time before your departure.

Additional requirements 

Besides travel insurance, other standard requirements for the Schengen Visa include a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, a round-trip flight reservation, and a detailed travel itinerary. It's essential to carefully review the specific requirements of the country you plan to visit, as there may be additional documents or conditions to fulfil.

Visa exemptions: 

Certain nationalities are exempt from obtaining a Schengen visa for short-term stays within the Schengen area. While UAE residents and the like still require a visa, citizens of countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the United States, Canada, Australia, and many others can travel to Schengen countries visa-free for a specified period, usually up to 90 days within 180 days. It's essential to check whether your nationality falls under these visa exemption categories.

When travelling to Schengen countries from the UAE, planning and preparing for a smooth and enjoyable trip is essential. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

Check the validity of your passport

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area. Check that your passport has enough blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

Understand the duration of stay and entry requirements

Familiarise yourself with the maximum duration of stay allowed under your visa or visa exemption. Check if you need to obtain a Schengen visa or are exempt based on your nationality. Understand any specific entry requirements, such as proof of accommodation, return flight tickets, or sufficient funds for your stay.

Research local customs and regulations

Learn about the local customs, etiquette, and cultural practices of the Schengen countries you plan to visit. Be aware of any specific rules or regulations related to dress code, behaviour, or photography at religious sites or cultural landmarks.

Familiarise yourself with local emergency services

Save emergency contact numbers for local authorities, ambulance services, and your embassy or consulate in each Schengen country you plan to visit. Understand how to access medical assistance and emergency services in case of any unforeseen health issues or emergencies.

Obtain travel insurance from Allianz Travel

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that meets the minimum requirements of the Schengen countries, even if it's not mandatory for your nationality. Ensure that your travel insurance covers medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellations or interruptions, and lost or delayed baggage.

Be mindful of Schengen countries' specific requirements.

Research any additional requirements or restrictions imposed by the Schengen countries you plan to visit, such as mandatory COVID-19 testing or quarantine measures. Stay updated on any travel advisories or guidelines issued by your home country's authorities or the Schengen countries you plan to visit

It is essential to have dependable travel insurance to ensure peace of mind while travelling. With over three decades of experience, Allianz Travel offers a diverse range of travel insurance packages to meet the unique needs of globetrotters. As previously mentioned, all our Outbound travel insurance products meet the Schengen visa requirements but some products offer more coverages than others. 

As part of our comprehensive travel insurance guide, we've included some of Allianz Travel's top-tier travel insurance options below:

Schengen Travel Insurance

Our Schengen travel insurance product is our most affordable product and meets the minimum requirements to get a schengen visa. Opting for Allianz Travel Schengen Travel insurance not only enhances your chances of securing your Schengen visa but also ensures your protection during your European travels. This insurance offers the necessary certificate for your Schengen visa application, providing you with the utmost peace of mind.

By purchasing our Schengen Travel Insurance, you gain comprehensive coverage for emergency medical expenses up to $50,000 in case of accidents, illnesses, diseases, or injuries.

Single-Trip Travel Insurance  (Extra and Gold)

These 2 products are not only schengen visa-compliant but go above the minimum requirements to cover you from more risks. Designed to ensure your safety during international travel, our Single-Trip Travel Insurance package provides comprehensive protection for you, your loved ones, and your possessions. We are dedicated to safeguarding you against unforeseen events like accidents, illnesses, and travel disruptions.

Our single-trip travel insurance is specifically tailored to cover visits abroad that extend up to 90 days. Purchasing is hassle-free; just provide us with your trip's start and end dates.

Annual-Multi Trip Travel Insurance 

Whether it is for the Schengen product for the more comprehensive products above, our travel insurance products are for trips below 90 days. If you are a frequent travelers, you could save money by buying an annual multi-trip travel insurance as it will cover you for all your trips below 90 days taken for an entire year. Instead of buying multiple single-trip travel insurance, then you can just buy one product valid for the full year.

It is essential to note that these annual travel insurance products only provide coverage if your stay abroad is within 90 consecutive days.

Allianz Travel is a comprehensive travel insurance and assistance company providing end-to-end insurance solutions to travellers who enjoy globe-trotting. Allianz Travel has experience spanning over 30 years, offering outstanding services and products to tourists from around the globe. Allianz Travel’s global headquarters are in Paris, with regional offices in more than 28 countries worldwide. 

Ready to put our travel insurance guide to use? Secure your travel insurance with Allianz Travel today. 

Contact our team of experts today to learn more about our products and services.