Traveling is an enjoyable experience that can create lasting memories. However, as much as we try to plan and prepare for our journeys, unforeseen events can still happen, such as flight cancellations, lost or delayed luggage, medical emergencies, or even natural disasters. These unexpected events can lead to significant financial losses or even personal harm, especially when travelling to foreign countries where you may not be familiar with the local customs or medical systems.
To protect yourself from these risks, it is crucial to purchase travel insurance before embarking on your journey. While some may consider travel insurance an optional expense, it is essential when planning your trip for your upcoming holidays.
For me, I typically buy travel insurance to help with the visa application process. Embassy and visa application centers are required to see proof that your travel insurance covers you in the event of an accident while you are on vacation.
The following are some reasons why having travel insurance is necessary, in addition to the processing of visas:
- HEALTH COVERAGE
When travelling to other countries, it is likely that your existing health insurance will not cover you in case of illness or medical emergencies. Travel insurance is designed to cover these expenses, including hospitalization costs, prescription medications, and emergency medical evacuations. - FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS/DELAY
Flight cancellations and delays can lead to missed connections and even cause you to miss a planned event or return flight. Travel insurance can reimburse you for expenses incurred due to these delays, including accommodations, meals, and transportation. - LOST OR DELAYED LUGGAGE
Luggage can sometimes get misplaced or delayed, causing significant inconvenience and even financial loss. Travel insurance can compensate for the loss or delay of your luggage, providing you with essential items while you wait for your bags to arrive. - NATURAL DISASTERS AND CIVIL UNREST
Sometimes, natural disasters or civil unrest can impact your travel plans, making it difficult for you to continue your journey. Travel insurance can cover you in such cases, providing you with emergency transportation, accommodations, and other necessary expenses. As you can see, travel insurance is an essential aspect of any journey, especially when flying out of Qatar. With the right travel insurance policy, you can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that you are protected in case of unforeseen events. - PERSONAL ACCIDENT
Personal accident insurance protects you if you have a serious accident on holiday that results in an injury, disability or your death. - COVID-19 COVERAGE
Under the Accident & Sickness Medical Expense, Travel insurance with COVID-19 covered compensates for the medical expenses incurred by the insured because of being diagnosed with COVID-19 outside the State of Qatar during the trip duration & is hospitalized. The policy provides coverage against Medical expenses upto the limit mentioned in the policy schedule.
Listed below are the top 3 Insurance Companies in Qatar which offers travel insurance with wide coverage:
1. SHARQ INSURANCE LLC
2. AXA (GIG)
3. QATAR INSURANCE COMPANY
I personally purchase travel insurance from Sharq Insurance since their policy limit meets the requirements for processing visas and because their cost is significantly less compared to the rates of other insurance providers.
One of the prerequisites was travel insurance when I am applying for a visa. For only QAR 38.00 for 7 days period, Sharq Insurance provided me with my travel insurance policy which covers my trip within Schengen territory. You may also visit their website to know more about the other travel insurance plans they are offering.
I hope that you found this blog helpful for your upcoming travels!
