DUBAI — Emirates has become the world’s first airline to cover medical expenses and quarantine costs related to COVID-19.
Under the directive of Sheikh Mohammed, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the airline is now covering medical expenses of up to EUR150,000 (approximately Can$230,000) and quarantine costs of EUR100 (approximately Can$155) per day for 14 days, should they be diagnosed with COVID-19 during their travels.
This cover is provided by Emirates, free of cost to its customers, regardless of class of travel or destination. Effective immediately, the policy is available to customers flying on Emirates until Oct. 31, 2020 (first flight to be completed on or before Oct. 31). It is valid for 31 days from the moment they fly the first sector of their journey, meaning customers can continue to benefit from the added assurance of this cover, even if they travel onwards to another city after arriving at their Emirates destination.
Passengers do not need to register or fill in any forms prior to travel, nor are they obligated to utilize this cover. Any impacted customer who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 during their travel simply has to contact a dedicated hotline to avail of assistance and cover.
“Emirates is proud to lead the way in boosting confidence for international travel,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Emirates Group Chairman and Chief Executive. “We know people are yearning to fly as borders around the world gradually reopen, but they are seeking flexibility and assurances should something unforeseen happen during their travel.”
In addition to this industry-leading coverage, Emirates has also revised its booking policies to more flexibility. Customers whose travel plans are disrupted by COVID-19-related flight or travel restrictions can hold on to their ticket, which will be valid for 24 months, and rebook to fly at a later time. They can also request travel vouchers to offset against future Emirates purchases, or request refunds via an online form on Emirates’ website or via their travel booking agent.
Dubai has reopened for business and leisure visitors with new air travel protocols. For a full list of entry requirements and safety protocols go to https://www.emirates.com/english/help/flying-to-and-from-dubai/tourists-travelling-to-dubai/.
