Middle East travel insurance guidance

Recent events in parts of the Middle East, including Iran and neighbouring regions, may be causing concern for travellers. If you’re planning a trip, currently abroad, or reviewing your travel insurance cover, the following guidance can help you understand what to expect and what steps to take.

Your travel insurance cover

Travel insurance policies are designed to support you if things don’t go to plan. In situations like this:

• Cover may still apply, including for medical emergencies and other insured events

• Claims are always assessed in line with the full terms, conditions, and exclusions of your policy

• Certain exclusions (such as those relating to war or conflict) only apply in specific circumstances

Policies can vary, so it’s important to check your individual policy wording or contact your insurer directly if you’re unsure what is covered.

Follow official government advice

Your first and most important source of guidance should always be official government travel advice.

• Check the latest updates before you travel and while you are abroad

• Follow all instructions issued by local authorities

• Be aware that advice can change quickly depending on the situation

For UK travellers, refer to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice website.

If authorities advise you to avoid travel or shelter in place, you should follow this guidance immediately.

If you are currently abroad in an affected region

Stay safe and informed

• Remain in a secure location if advised

• Avoid unnecessary travel

• Monitor official updates regularly

In an emergency

• Contact local emergency services first if you are in immediate danger or need urgent medical care

• Once safe, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance team as soon as possible

Keep important information ready

If you need to contact your insurer, it helps to have:

• Your policy number (if available)

• Your current location and contact details

• Details of the situation and any assistance required

• Contact details for local medical providers, if relevant

Evacuation and returning home

If you are advised to leave, you should:

• Follow official instructions

• Take the next available opportunity to return home

Some policies may automatically extend cover if you are unable to return as planned, but you should confirm this with your insurer.

Travel disruption and delays

Disruption may occur during periods of conflict. Your airline or travel provider is usually your first point of contact for delays, cancellations, or rerouting. They are typically responsible for arranging alternative travel where possible.

If you incur additional costs (such as accommodation due to delays or being advised to remain in place), keep copies of receipts, booking confirmations, correspondence with your travel provider, and any other supporting documentation. You may be able to claim for expenses, depending on your policy.

If you are planning to travel

Before your trip

• Check the latest government travel advice for your destination

• Speak to your airline or travel provider if you have concerns

If official advice warns against travel and you choose to travel anyway, insurance claims related to cancellation or disruption may not be valid.

Future bookings

If you book a trip after a situation has become widely known, it may be considered a known event, which can affect your ability to claim for cancellation or changes.

However, other parts of your policy (such as medical cover) may still apply, subject to terms and conditions.

If you have concerns about your travel plans, contact your tour operator, travel agent, or airline in the first instance. If you think you need to make a claim, contact your insurance brokers or insurer directly; they will be able to guide you based on your specific policy and circumstances.

This is a developing situation, and guidance may change.