Indian Umrah pilgrims unaware of insurance claims despite mandatory coverage

Indian Umrah pilgrims often lack awareness about claiming accidental death insurance due to gaps among Indian tour operators. The mandatory Umrah insurance covers medical emergencies, accidental death, and repatriation, but families sometimes struggle to access benefits after tragic incidents abroad

Dubai: Indians form one of the five largest groups of foreign Umrah pilgrims, yet Indian tour operators arranging travel to Saudi Arabia are lagging in creating awareness about claiming insurance in accidental death cases, according to sources.

The role of local tour operators in India has come into focus following the recent tragic accident involving Indian Umrah pilgrims near Madina. All foreign Umrah pilgrims, including those from India, arrive in Saudi Arabia only after subscribing to an Umrah insurance policy, which is mandatory for obtaining an Umrah visa. The Insurance Policy Certificate, automatically issued during the visa process, contains the insured person’s details, insurance benefits and contact channels.

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Umrah insurance is compulsory and provides pilgrims with medical protection and emergency support during their visit to Saudi Arabia. It covers treatment for emergency health issues, compensation in cases of flight disruptions, accidental death, death due to natural disasters and accidental permanent total disability, in addition to the cost of repatriating the body to the pilgrim’s home country. One lakh Saudi Riyal, equivalent to nearly Rs 23.80 lakh, can be claimed in the event of accidental death.

Saudi Arabia treats foreign pilgrims as guests of Allah and accords priority to their wellbeing throughout their holy journey. The Insurance Policy Certificate issued during the visa process outlines all coverage and the channels available for seeking assistance.

However, gaps in awareness among tour operators in India, combined with sensitivity around the subject, language barriers and the short duration of stay abroad, leave many families traumatised and unable to access insurance benefits after the death of a pilgrim, sources said.

It is noteworthy that many Indian pilgrims successfully avail themselves of medical care during their Umrah pilgrimage. Pilgrims can check policy and coverage details by visiting the e-services portal at https://www.chi.gov.sa, clicking on insurance status, selecting Umrah Insurance Inquiry and entering the required details. Policy holders may also call 966 138129700 for further information, as per Health Insurance Council guidelines.