War Cover for Motor Insurance in the UAE: What You Need to Know

Standard motor insurance in the UAE does not automatically cover damage caused by war, invasion, civil unrest, or similar events. Given recent regional developments, it is important for vehicle owners to understand exactly what their insurance policy includes and where additional protection may be required.

GIG Gulf's War Cover add-on helps bridge this gap by reinstating coverage for war-related risks that are excluded under standard comprehensive motor policies. This guide explains what War Cover includes, why it matters, and how you can add it to your policy.

The regional situation, briefly

Since the conflict began on 28 February 2026, the UAE has intercepted more than 2,000 drones, hundreds of ballistic missiles, and dozens of cruise missiles launched from Iran. The attacks have killed at least 13 people, wounded more than 200, and damaged energy infrastructure and landmark buildings.

A ceasefire held, unevenly, from 8 April 2026 — but it has since collapsed. By mid-July 2026, strikes had resumed, and Iranian missiles struck two UAE-linked tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The situation remains active.

Is War Damage Covered by Standard Car Insurance?

No. Standard comprehensive motor insurance policies in the UAE generally exclude damage resulting from war, invasion, hostilities, civil unrest, and similar events under General Exclusion 10 of the Motor Unified Policy.

This exclusion applies across the insurance industry and is not specific to a single insurer. Without an additional War Cover endorsement, claims arising from such events would typically not be covered.

What's Happening Right Now

Since February 2026, the UAE has experienced direct effects from ongoing regional conflict, including drone and missile activity as well as disruptions to shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.

While periods of ceasefire have occurred, regional tensions remain active. Understanding your insurance coverage today can help you avoid unexpected issues if a war-related event affects your vehicle in the future.

Is War Damage Covered by Standard Car Insurance?

No. Standard comprehensive motor insurance policies in the UAE generally exclude damage resulting from war, invasion, hostilities, civil unrest, and similar events under General Exclusion 10 of the Motor Unified Policy.

This exclusion applies across the insurance industry and is not specific to a single insurer. Without an additional War Cover endorsement, claims arising from such events would typically not be covered.

What is GIG Gulf War Cover?

War Cover is an optional add-on available with selected GIG Gulf comprehensive motor insurance policies. It reinstates protection for risks normally excluded under standard motor insurance coverage.

• Direct physical damage caused by invasion, foreign hostilities, or warlike operations
• Coverage for civil war, strikes, riots, civil commotion, and uprisings
• Coverage for coup attempts, confiscation, nationalization, or seizure of power
• Choice of sum insured: full vehicle value, AED 100,000, or AED 50,000
• Available for an additional premium of just 0.5%
• Available on Motor Prestige, Motor Perfect Plus, and Motor Perfect plans

Why Add War Cover with GIG Gulf?

Adding War Cover provides additional protection against risks that fall outside standard motor insurance policies.

• Licensed and regulated by the UAE Central Bank
• Coverage activates 48 hours after purchase
• Simple addition to new or existing motor policies
• Standard motor policy excess applies
• Backed by more than 70 years of regional insurance expertise

How to Add War Cover

Adding War Cover is quick and straightforward:

1. Select War Cover while obtaining a new motor insurance quote online
2. If you already have a GIG Gulf policy, contact the UAE customer service team with your policy number
3. Choose your preferred sum insured option
4. Receive confirmation of your additional premium
5. Coverage becomes active 48 hours after purchase

Documents and Information Required

• GIG Gulf policy number (for existing customers)
• Vehicle details (for new customers)
• Private Saloon, Sedan, SUV, or 4WD vehicle information

Why Timing Matters

War Cover includes a 48-hour waiting period before protection becomes active. This means it is important to arrange coverage before any event occurs rather than waiting until a risk becomes imminent.

Planning ahead ensures your vehicle has the protection you need when unforeseen circumstances arise.