finpeel Answers · UAE · updated 2026-08-14

Do I need a licence to distribute insurance digitally in the UAE?

Yes, if your company performs a regulated insurance distribution or insurance-related profession; moving the journey online does not remove the underlying licensing requirement. The CBUAE also has specific rules governing electronic insurance operations.

A licensed insurer, broker or other permitted intermediary can distribute through digital channels subject to the applicable rules. A pure software vendor may sit outside the distribution licence if it does not itself solicit, advise, arrange or sell insurance.

Map the customer-facing role, remuneration, policy placement and responsibility for advice or sale before deciding whether the fintech is merely technology or a regulated distributor.

Regulator: Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE)

Primary sources: CBUAE — Insurance Rulebook · CBUAE — Electronic Insurance Regulations

Directional — not legal advice. Verify with the regulator before committing.

Read on finpeel.com · All answers · Map digital insurance distribution