Losing a passport while travelling is a stressful experience, especially for UAE expats who may face difficulties returning home without valid documentation. A missing passport can disrupt travel plans, delay flights, and lead to additional expenses. However, knowing the right steps can help manage the situation effectively.
This guide provides clear instructions on what to do if you experience a lost passport while travelling, including how to report the loss, apply for a replacement, and check if your travel insurance covers passport loss.
What to do if you have lost passport while travelling
If you realise your passport is lost or stolen, take immediate action to prevent complications:
1. Report the loss to local authorities
- Go to the nearest police station and file a lost passport report.
- Request an official copy of the police report—this may be required for a replacement at the UAE embassy and for travel insurance claims for lost passports.
- If the passport was stolen, ensure the report specifies it as theft.
2. Contact the UAE Embassy or Consulate
- To find the nearest UAE embassy or consulate, visit the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs website under “UAE Missions Abroad”, search by country, and access contact details. For urgent assistance, call +971 800 44444 or search “UAE Embassy in [Country Name]” online.
- Inform the consulate about the lost passport and request a replacement.
- Fill out any required forms and submit the necessary documents.
3. Apply for an emergency travel document
- If you need to return to the UAE urgently, the embassy can issue an Emergency Passport Assistance document.
- This temporary travel document allows you to re-enter the UAE legally.
4. Contact your airline and travel insurance provider
- Some airlines require an official document to allow travel without a passport. Contact them to confirm what alternative identification may be accepted or what else can be done based on the regulations.
- If you have UAE travel insurance, contact your provider immediately to check whether your policy covers the cost of replacing your passport and any travel delays caused by the loss.
Documents required for passport replacement
To apply for a replacement passport or an emergency travel document, you will typically need:
| Document | Purpose |
| Copy of lost passport | Helps verify identity |
| Police report | Confirms the passport loss was reported officially |
| UAE Residence visa copy | Required for UAE expats |
| National ID (Emirates ID) | Additional proof of identity |
| Passport-sized photos | Needed for the replacement application |
| Flight details | If applying for an emergency document |
How travel insurance can help if you lose your passport
Many UAE travel insurance providers offer coverage for lost passports. Depending on the policy, coverage may include:
- Fixed reimbursement for passport replacement – Some insurers provide a specific amount to cover the cost of obtaining a new or duplicate passport.
- Full or partial expense reimbursement – Certain policies reimburse expenses related to passport replacement, subject to terms and conditions.
- Coverage for additional application fees – Some plans cover the cost of applying for a new passport after it has been lost or stolen.
- Extended coverage for travel disruptions— Some insurers also offer compensation for flight and hotel cancellations if a lost passport affects travel plans.
Before travelling, it’s always advisable to check your travel insurance requirements to ensure your policy includes protection against passport loss. To find the most suitable plan, you can compare different UAE travel insurance policies on online platforms like InsuranceMarket.ae, which allow you to review coverage options, benefits, and pricing from multiple insurers in one place.
How to make a travel insurance claim for a lost passport
If you have lost passport while travelling and and are covered by a travel insurance provider, follow these steps to file a claim:
- File a police report – Most insurers require an official police complaint before processing a claim.
- Contact your insurer – Inform them immediately about the loss and check the coverage details.
- Submit required documents, including the police report, proof of identity, and travel details.
- Follow up on your claim – Processing times vary by insurer, so regular follow-ups are recommended.
Tip: Always check your travel insurance requirements before your trip to ensure your policy covers passport loss.
How to prevent passport loss while travelling
Taking a few precautions can help protect your passport and avoid the hassle of replacement:
1. Keep your passport secure
- Use a hotel locker to keep your passport safe when not needed.
- Avoid carrying your passport in easily accessible bags.
2. Make copies and digital backups
- Keep scanned copies of your passport in your email or cloud storage.
- Carry a physical photocopy in a separate bag.
3. Be cautious in public areas
- Stay alert in crowded places where pickpockets may target tourists.
- Never leave your passport unattended in cafes, taxis, or hotel lobbies.
4. Carry backup identification
- Bring an Emirates ID or another government-issued photo ID for identification purposes.
Common mistakes to avoid when dealing with a lost passport
- Not reporting the loss to local authorities – Without a police report, embassies and insurance providers may not process your request.
- Delaying action – The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to replace your passport.
- Ignoring travel insurance coverage – If you have travel insurance in the UAE, check whether it includes passport loss protection before you travel.
Final takeaway on lost passport while travelling
Losing a passport while travelling can be stressful, but knowing the correct steps can help you resolve the situation quickly. If you ever lose your passport while travelling, report it immediately, visit the UAE embassy, and check your travel insurance for potential coverage.
Before your trip, ensure you have the best travel insurance in the UAE, including passport loss coverage. Being prepared can save you time, money, and unnecessary trouble in case of emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I travel back to the UAE without a passport?
No, you need either a passport replacement for UAE residents or an Emergency Passport Assistance document issued by the UAE embassy.
2. How long does it take to replace a lost passport abroad?
Processing times vary by country and consulate. A standard replacement passport can take several weeks, while an emergency travel document is usually issued within a few days.
3. Does travel insurance cover lost passports?
Yes, many travel insurance in Dubai and the UAE offer coverage for lost passports, but the terms depend on your provider.
4. What should I do if my passport is stolen?
- Report the theft to the police and get an official report.
- Visit the UAE embassy for passport replacement or an Emergency Passport Assistance document.
- Check your travel insurance for lost passport coverage.
