Australian travellers face significant insurance hurdles when planning trips to or through the Middle East, as major insurers continue to exclude “acts of war” from standard policies. While the Australian government has recently downgraded travel advice for several Gulf nations—allowing for resumed travel to hubs like the UAE and Qatar—industry data confirms that these policy exclusions remain a standard fixture in product disclosure statements (PDS).
Insurance Coverage and the “Act of War” Exclusion
A review of 22 travel insurance policies by the comparison site Finder revealed that every provider examined includes a broad “act of war” exclusion. According to these documents, insurers will not cover any claim arising from or related to war, whether declared or not, as well as incidents involving rebellion, revolution, insurrection, or military-led power changes.
This reality presents a financial risk for travellers transiting through Middle Eastern hubs. Even if the Australian government updates its advice, the individual insurance contract remains the final authority on what is covered. Travellers are encouraged to read their specific PDS carefully, as coverage for flight delays or cancellations often hinges on whether the cause is linked to these excluded regional conflicts.
Did you know?
Before the US and Israel launched a war on Iran in 28 February, these carriers transported more than half of all passengers flying from Europe to Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands, according to aviation data firm Cirium.
Updates to Government Travel Advisories
The Australian government, through Smartraveller, continues to monitor the security situation in the Middle East closely. As of August 12, the agency warned that conflict remains ongoing, with military strikes and reprisal attacks occurring across multiple locations. While the government recently lowered the “do not travel” advisory for countries including the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Israel, and Kuwait, officials still urge citizens to “reconsider your need to travel” to the region.
Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that while the blanket bans have been lifted, the security environment remains volatile and capable of deteriorating with little warning. The government advises those who choose to travel to monitor local media, avoid crowds, and prepare for emergency scenarios, including sudden military escalations.
Strategic Planning for Travellers
For Australians currently in the Middle East who wish to depart, Smartraveller maintains a clear directive: make plans to leave while commercial flights remain available. If it is safe to reach the airport, travellers should secure a flight out of the region immediately. For those remaining, the agency advises following local warning systems, staying indoors during strikes, and identifying hardened shelters if an attack is imminent.
Dean Long, chief of the Australian Travel Industry Association, noted that the relaxation of travel advice is a “sensible” move that provides travellers with the confidence to use major Gulf hubs for transit to Europe, Africa, and India. However, he emphasized that this does not necessarily mean the region is suitable for leisure holidays at this time.
Pro Tips for Your Next Trip
- Check your transit points: Review the travel advice for every country you plan to land in, not just your final destination.
- Subscribe for updates: Sign up for free alerts via the Smartraveller website to receive real-time notifications about your specific route.
- Maintain contact: Keep your airline, travel agent, and insurance provider informed of your itinerary changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my travel insurance cover me if I am in the Middle East during a conflict?
Most standard insurance policies contain an “act of war” exclusion, meaning they will not cover claims resulting from military conflict, revolution, or insurrection. You must check your specific product disclosure statement (PDS) for details.
Is it safe to transit through airports in the UAE or Qatar?
While the Australian government has lowered the travel advice level for these countries, the situation remains volatile. Travellers are advised to monitor government warnings and ensure they have adequate support from their airline or travel insurance provider.
What should I do if I am caught in an area under military attack?
Smartraveller advises moving to an enclosed, hardened shelter—ideally underground—or an inner room without windows. Stay indoors, limit movement, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
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