When does your free-look period end?
The Central Bank of the UAE gives you at least 30 calendar days to cancel a new life policy or savings plan for a refund. The period starts on the earliest of three dates.
What does the rule say?
"A Free Look Period of at least 30 calendar days must be provided to the policyholder. The Free Look Period starts on the date of policy issuance, the date when coverage commences, or the date when the policy documents are signed by the client, whichever is earlier." The insurer must refund the full premium and may deduct only reasonable medical underwriting costs, with a receipt and report.
The rule does not say whether the start date counts as day 1. The tool shows both readings. Sending your cancellation by the earlier date keeps you inside either.
Example: signed on 10 November 2026, cover from 15 November 2026, issued on20 November 2026. The period starts on 10 November 2026. Day 30, counting the start date as day 1, is 9 December 2026. Thirty days after the start date is 10 December 2026.
Some insurers' documents word the period differently. Zurich International Life's key features document gives 30 days from receipt of the policy documents. Bought through a bank, the Central Bank's consumer standards also give 5 complete business days to cool off after you sign, unless a longer period applies. More inthe rules that protect you andcancelling a savings plan.
Sources
- Insurance Authority Board of Directors' Decision No. (49) of 2019 Concerning Instructions for Life Insurance and Family Takaful Insurance, Article 9Central Bank of the UAE. In force from 9 October 2019. Version consolidated as of 20 March 2020. Read 12 November 2026.
- Consumer Protection Standards, clauses 2.1.3.15 and 5.1.1.28Central Bank of the UAE. Read 12 November 2026.
- Term Protect Individual Life, Key Features DocumentSukoon Insurance, published by Mashreq. Read 12 November 2026.
- International Term Assurance, Key Features DocumentZurich International Life, published by Mashreq. Read 12 November 2026.