For many of us, a new year brings the urge to set big, ambitious goals, but they can be quite daunting and challenging to attain. Instead, 2026 could be the year to focus on small, meaningful, and realistic changes – steps that gradually pave the way towards a healthier, more secure tomorrow.
Here’s how you can take simple yet powerful actions to prioritise your health, wealth, and protection this year.
Health: The Foundation of Your Well-being
Your health forms the foundation of your overall well-being. Listening to your body and caring for your mind doesn’t have to involve intense workouts or rigid routines. Simple practices, such as interval walking – alternating between brisk and slow-paced walks – can make a noticeable difference.
Mental health is just as important. Some simple steps you can take include:
- Practicing self-compassion: Treat yourself with kindness, without feeling guilty for slowing down.
- Taking time to pause and reflect: Step away from your screen for a few minutes to breathe, reset, and regain focus.
- Surrounding yourself with supportive people: Reah out to a colleague or friend, who can listen and understand you without judgement.
- Celebrating small wins: Acknowledge everyday achievements, whether it be completing your to-do list or reaching a small goal.
- Engaging in hobbies you enjoy: Spend your free time doing things you love such as reading, cooking, or listening to music.
These habits can positively influence your mood and outlook on life. Explore more on how you can improve your well-being even while at work here.
Regular checkups and preventive care are also key. Having the right health coverage ensures you can take proactive steps without worrying about costs. Discover SALAMA’s health takaful solutions here.
Financial Well-Being: Save Smart, Invest Early
Like health, financial well-being doesn’t always require drastic changes. Starting with small practical steps can help you gain better clarity on where your money goes. These steps may include:
- Setting SMART financial goals: Define clear goals, such as saving a fixed amount each month for an emergency fund or a future expense.
- Automating your savings: Set up automatic transfers so a portion of your income goes directly into savings before spending it.
- Building or strengthening an emergency fund: Gradually set aside money to cover unexpected expenses, by starting with small, regular contributions.
- Reviewing recurring expenses: Check for unused subscriptions or expenses if any.
Over time, these small adjustments can make a meaningful difference and help you with savings. Learn more about financial planning here.
Beyond saving, investing strategically is essential for growing your wealth. Different investment approaches suit different goals and risk appetites. Explore these strategies through our ongoing Instagram contest, where you can test your investment knowledge and stand a chance to win an exciting prize.
Together, savings and investments can help you support important life milestones, such as your child’s education or retirement. and long-term goals. With the right planning and support, they can help you build a more secure financial future. Learn more about the savings and investments plans offered by SALAMA here.
Future Security: Protecting What Matters the Most
Life is unpredictable, which makes planning ahead an essential part of holistic well-being. Smal yet crucial steps today can help create a strong foundation for your long-term security.
Having the right protection in place can support your loved ones financially during unexpected moments, reduce uncertainty during challenging times, and provide peace of mind – allowing you to focus on the present and live fully. Solutions such as term protection can play a meaningful role in this journey. Learn more about the life takaful plans offered by Salama here.
A new year doesn’t require a complete life overhaul. Sometimes, progress begins with small, mindful steps – towards a healthier and more confident tomorrow.
As we conclude 2025 and approach 2026, we reflect on a year of meaningful transformation for SALAMA. From solidifying our leadership and financials to enhancing our customer experience, this year has set the stage for an even stronger year ahead.
Financial Strength and Reinforcing Solvency
In the first nine months of 2025, SALAMA achieved a net profit of AED 11.1M, with other comprehensive income rising to AED 16M. Commenting on the results, Chairman Mr. Essa Ali Alzaabi reaffirmed SALAMA’s resilience, and Group CEO Mohamed Ali Bouabane highlighted profitability supported by disciplined underwriting, expense control and portfolio rebalancing. Read more from our latest financial results here.
As part of reinforcing our solvency, SALAMA has embarked on a shareholder-approved capital restructuring, paving the way for a planned Mandatory Convertible Sukuk (MCS) of up to AED 175M (subject to regulatory approval). Read more here.
Leadership and Strategic Appointments
2025 marked a defining moment for SALAMA’s leadership, as it strengthened its vision and journey towards achieving operational excellence. Mohamed Ali Bouabane was appointed as our Group Chief Executive Officer, and Essa Ali Alzaabi, became the Chairman of the Board. These appointments and other key hires within the Executive Leadership team are already improving efficiency, decision making, and the services offered.
Service Enhancements and Strategic Partnerships
SALAMA continues to see advancements in product innovation, digitalisation, and strategic partnerships as we approach 2026. From a product standpoint, multiple enhancements were brought in 2025. Life Takaful expanded through Policybazaar.ae and a new Home Finance Takaful solution was launched with ADIB. In health, SALAMA retained its DHA Participating Insurer status for the fourth consecutive year, offering EBP, Flexi and the new MediShield plan with global coverage and telehealth. In motor, plans were enhanced with added natural calamity cover and emergency medical benefits.
Strategic partnerships with leading banks, brokers and aggregators backed by global reinsurance partners, continue to strengthen SALAMA’s reach across digital, retail, SME and corporate segments, while reinforcing service quality, resilience and long-term financial strength.
Community awareness and recognition
Through our human-centric campaigns – such as Shaping Brighter Tomorrows (launched during Ramadan with a spirit of optimism), Summer with Salama, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Financial Literacy, PetSet, and Shaping Safer Tomorrows – SALAMA has not only raised awareness around protection and financial empowerment but also strengthened customer trust. This growing trust is reflected in our digital performance, with Instagram followers increasing by 75% and LinkedIn by 15%. Google My Business ratings also improved, recording a 9.7% increase for the Dubai branch and an 8.5% increase for Abu Dhabi, further underscoring confidence in the SALAMA brand.
SALAMA also won multiple awards, including Best Takaful Provider,Leading Takaful Solution Provider UAE, Most Trusted Islamic Insurance Brand, and multiple accolades for Life & Health Takaful and Best Insurance Website, reaffirming our excellence and commitment to Shariah principles.
A forward-looking mindset
As we look ahead to 2026, SALAMA remains committed to enhancing its customer experience with digitalisation, underwriting discipline and operational excellence. This forward-looking outlook ensures that we remain agile, resilient and well-positioned to meet the evolving expectations of our shareholders, customers, partners and the wider market.
As we celebrate these milestones, we recognise our people at the heart of every achievement. Read their reflections, where they share stories of growth, teamwork, and transformation here.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than just a symbol – it’s a powerful call to action. It’s a time to reflect, make informed choices, and strengthen our support systems. While the Pink Ribbon unites us in solidarity, it also reminds us to go beyond gestures by seeking trusted information, building sustainable habits, and embracing a holistic approach to wellbeing – supported by the right level of care.
This Pinktober, let’s stand together.
Join us in raising awareness, breaking stigmas, and contributing to a movement that transforms lives. Together, we can make real, informed changes with compassion and care.
Nurturing Sustainable and Healthy Habits
Small daily habits can make a big impact – from maintaining regular health check-ups to staying physically active and emotionally connected. One of the most effective habits is regular cancer screening, which plays a critical role in early detection.
Globally, early detection through mammography has contributed to a 40% drop in breast cancer deaths since 1990. Yet in the UAE, 68% of women and men rarely or never undergo mammography, highlighting the urgent need to turn awareness into action.
(Yes, men can be affected too.)
Emotional wellbeing matters just as much. Mental health check-ins, open conversations, and access to psychological support are essential – especially for those navigating a diagnosis or recovery. Emotional resilience plays a vital role in both healing and long-term wellbeing.
Learn how Salama supports mental wellbeing.
From Myths to Meaningful Awareness
In today’s digital world, misinformation can be as harmful as the disease itself. A recent study shows that 93% of cancer patients are exposed to misinformation, often without realising it – leading to delays in treatment and, in some cases, worsening outcomes. Delays of over three months can lead to a 2.3x increase in complications.
With AI-generated content and unverified sources on the rise, it’s more important than ever to rely on trusted information, from authorities like the WHO, DHA, DOH, and certified medical professionals.
To help separate facts from fiction, read these tips to empower yourself with accurate and meaningful awareness about breast cancer.
Salama’s Holistic Approach: Prevention, Protection, and Compassion
At Salama, prevention, protection, and compassion are central to our mission. Our health insurance packages support preventive healthcare, including early detection through DHA’s Basmah Patient Support Programme, offered to Dubai residents under the Essential Benefits Health Plan.
We go beyond policies by engaging with our communities through live awareness sessions, educational content, and frontline support. Our claims team who work closely with the DHA and promote evidence-based care, are at the heart of this effort.
Plans like MediShield are designed to champion preventive care while ensuring accessible coverage for all.
Explore our health insurance plans from Salama.
Breast Cancer Awareness Is a Movement, Not a Moment
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than an annual observance, it’s a movement. One that encourages us to turn:
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- Awareness into action
- Myths into facts
- Care into lifelong commitment
At Salama, togetherness is at the heart of who we are. Across the UAE, Egypt, and our subsidiaries, we stand united in our mission to protect, inform, and care.
See how our teams wore pink in solidarity — turning awareness into action here.
]]>Being a ‘paw-rent’ is a joyful and rewarding experience, but it also brings important responsibilities, especially when it comes to your pet’s health. With a rise in pet ownership in the UAE, estimated to be 938,000 in 2024, more families are welcoming furry friends into their homes. And as the number of pets grows, so does the need for reliable and affordable veterinary care.
In the UAE, veterinary care can be quite expensive, and even routine visits can become a financial burden. Pet insurance helps protect your finances while ensuring your furry friend gets the quality care they deserve.
Here’s a glimpse of the pets that brighten the lives of our Salama team!
This Pet Insurance awareness month, be a part of the PetSet by Salama, to raise awareness, share the joy brought in by these fluffy pals, and ensure they receive the protection they deserve.
In this blog, we will walk you through some of the key reasons why you should get pet insurance in the UAE for your pet or pets.
Keeps you financially prepared
When your pet falls ill or gets injured, it is not only emotionally overwhelming, but it can also be financially challenging. A general vet consultation in the UAE can cost around AED 200, while emergency treatments, involving blood tests, X-rays, or surgeries, can easily exceed AED 7,000.
Without insurance, these bills would come straight from your savings. But with the right pet insurance coverage, most of these costs will be covered, allowing you to focus on your pet’s recovery and quality of life.
Protects against the unpredictable
Pets are naturally curious and active, which means accidents can happen without warning, when you least expect them. From tumbling down the stairs to swallowing something harmful, emergencies often strike when you least expect them. This means that they might require emergency medical care, leaving you little time to prepare.
Having a pet insurance cover will, therefore, ensure your pet receives emergency medical attention without any delays. With Salama’s Pet Takaful coverage, you can provide your pet with the best health care service in any veterinary clinic across the UAE.
Unlocks quality care and prevention
Pet insurance not only provides cover during emergencies. It can also help improve your pet’s well-being by providing them with access to preventive care, which is highly beneficial for long-term health. Regular vet visits can help with early detection of health conditions and ensure your pet receives timely and effective treatment.
Since most pet insurance policies don’t cover pre-existing health conditions, it is beneficial to insure your pet as early as eight weeks old. This safeguards their health from the very beginning and keeps you prepared for any health conditions as they grow.
Preventive care is a key part of maintaining your pet’s health and typically covers:
- Vaccinations,
- Deworming (flea and tick treatments),
- Dental check-ups,
- Blood tests,
- Sterilisation
With Salama’s Pet Takaful coverage, you have the flexibility to provide your pet with preventive care services, ranging from regular check-ups to advanced treatments. This comprehensive protection helps you stay ahead of any potential health issues and ensures your pet receives the care they deserve, without any unexpected financial stress.
Provides peace of mind
One of the greatest benefits of pet insurance is that it provides you with peace of mind. Knowing that you are financially secure will help you make the best decisions for your pet and not be concerned about affordability. Also, it will reduce the chances of delays in getting the right treatment without any hesitation.
From routine checkups to emergency treatments, you can ensure your pet’s well-being with Salama’s Pet Takaful coverage.
Discover how Salama’s Pet Takaful plan can safeguard your pet’s health today.
]]>As the UAE summer sets in with soaring temperatures and high humidity, you and your vehicle might face added pressure while on the road. From increased chances of breakdowns to heat-related health issues, staying safe while driving in summer requires preparation.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or daily commutes to your office, taking a few smart and impactful steps could account for all the difference.
Join us this summer in protecting what matters the most to you.
Keep your vehicle prepared
Before heading out this summer, ensure your vehicle is ready to handle the heat. Here are a few summer car tips that can keep your vehicle well-maintained and protected from potential issues.
- Coolant system: Prevent overheating with a properly functioning coolant system by performing timely checks of your vehicle’s radiator, coolant levels, and hoses.
- Battery health: Extreme heat can accelerate battery wear and tear, impacting performance. Inspect your battery from time to time and replace if needed.
- Air conditioning (AC): The last thing you need during the summer is an AC that does not work. Ensure your vehicle’s AC is functioning fully by checking for leaks, issues with compressor and cleaning or replacing the cabin air filter.
- Tire care: High temperature can increase the chances of tire bursts. Check your vehicle’s tire pressure every three days and keep a watch for signs of over or under inflation.
- Fluid levels: Heat can cause fluids like engine oil, brake fluids, transmission fluids, to evaporate. Monitor them regularly or seek a mechanic’s support to ensure safety.
Along with this, make sure you are performing general upkeep of your vehicle by testing the brakes and taking steps to protect your car’s interior and exterior from sun damage. Taking these preventive measures could make your drives smoother and safer this summer and beyond.
Ensure protection while on the go
Driving in heat can impact your focus and health. Here are some essential driving tips to enhance safety and comfort:
- Keep water handy and hydrate often to prevent dehydration. Also, be aware of the warning signs of dehydration, like dry mouth, dizziness, or nausea.
- Take regular breaks, especially on long drives.
- Wear light breathable clothes.
- Avoid having heavy meals and caffeine.
- Never leave your kids or pets inside your parked car even for a few minutes.
- Use UV and IR blocking window tints to improve cabin comfort.
- Keep a 2 kg fire extinguisher easily accessible in your car.
- Avoid keeping flammable objects like lighters in your car.
- Park your car in shaded areas to reduce interior heat built up.
Stay alert, stay safe
Heat stress can impair cognitive function and reaction, making it vital to be alert and focused while driving, especially during summer. Here are some measures you can take to stay alert while driving:
- Stay within the speed limit no matter what.
- Avoid using your phone while driving.
- Maintain safe distance from other vehicles.
- Watch out for motorcycles and cycles.
- Always have an emergency kit in your vehicle with basic medical supplies such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers.
- Rest if you feel tired or dizzy.
Learn more on how you can stay safe while driving from our experts here at Salama.
Insurance and road safety as a priority
Not having the right insurance cover could lead to out-of-pocket expenses. While third-party insurance covers damage to others, a comprehensive cover provides an extra layer of protection that fits your ride.
With Salama’s comprehensive auto insurance, get can get:
- Fast repairs through A grade garage networks
- Free off-road assistance
- Personal accident benefits inbuilt for driver and passenger
- Free vehicle recovery service and more
Discover how Salama’s auto insurance can provide you with peace of mind on every journey here.
From keeping your vehicle summer-ready to taking care of your health while driving, every small action adds up to a safer journey. Join us in our #SummerWithSalama campaign, where we share safety tips, fun challenges and expert insights all along this season.
Together, let’s take the first step towards a summer without accidents this year.
If you notice your vehicle’s brakes are squeaking, the oil light is flashing, or you are skipping the much-needed garage visit, it could lead to serious problems such as expensive repairs, lower insurance covers, and worst of all, accidents.
In this blog, we will break down the key aspects of car maintenance and things you need to know about car repair options and motor insurance implications.
Why regular car maintenance matters
When your car is not properly maintained, it can lead to malfunctioning of essential parts. Regular maintenance can keep your rides smooth, safe, and efficient. Here’s how:
- Ensures safety on the go: Performing scheduled car maintenance can reduce the chances of incidents like tire bursts, suspension issues, and brake failures. It further enhances your protection while driving through extreme weather conditions, dusty terrain, and at night. Your safety is our priority. Read more on how to drive safely here.
- Helps avoid costly repair: Ignoring small mechanical issues could lead to expensive repairs and even cause dangerous accidents. Remember, if an accident occurs due to poor maintenance, like worn-out-brakes, your motor insurance plan may cover the resulting damage (if any) but not the cause.
- Enhances performance: Taking time to perform regular inspections, and servicing tires, braking systems, batteries, and other components can keep your vehicle’s performance optimal. This would provide you with better tire traction, stable steering, and overall driving comfort.
- Reduces fuel consumption: Well-maintained vehicles can improve fuel efficiency. Clean air filters, well-tuned engines, timely oil changes, and properly inflated tires can all contribute toward improved mileage and reduced fuel usage.
Know your car repair options: What happens after a breakdown
From routine maintenance to emergency repairs due to unexpected breakdowns or accidents, knowing your repair options can save you time and confusion.
Regular maintenance, as discussed, is a proactive approach with routine checks and scheduled maintenance. However, while repairing your car post-breakdown or accident, it is beneficial to have clarity on your repair channels, especially in relation to your insurance claims. They are:
1. If your vehicle is less than one year old, it will be eligible for agency or dealership repairs and your vehicle would receive new parts.
2. If your vehicle is over one year old, your motor insurance would cover the repair with authorised garages that would opt for refurbished or used parts. However, you have the option to receive new parts by paying the depreciation charges based on your car’s age. Additionally, you may have to sign a consent form, conveying your willingness to pay the extra amount.
Always check your insurer’s garage list. View Salama’s list of authorised garages in the UAE here.
Why is the right motor insurance cover non-negotiable
Even when you drive safely and take necessary precautions, unexpected incidents could still happen. That is why it is essential to have a reliable motor insurance plan.
At Salama, we offer motor insurance plans you can tailor based on your needs:
1. Third-party liability plan: Basic protection against injury/damage to others.
2. Comprehensive plan: Includes third-party protection and coverage for your loss/damage.
Our comprehensive plan has just become even better with added benefits like:
1. Natural calamity protection,
2. Emergency medical coverage,
3. Lock replacement, and more.
Plus, you can now avail up to 20% off while insuring your SUV with us. Having the right motor insurance plan along with regular check-ups and car maintenance can provide you with a protective shield against the unexpected.
Explore more about our Auto Takaful plans here and choose the right level of protection for your journey.
Financial freedom has different meanings for different people. For some, it is debt-free living, while for others, it is gaining security and flexibility.
To support you, we asked our specialists at Salama to share practical tips that could empower your financial journey.
So, why does financial freedom matter?
Financial freedom comes with numerous benefits, spanning from financial to personal well-being. It allows you to live without the weight of financial stress. Abdul Qadir, Senior Manager, Finance and Accounts at Salama shares:
“Freedom from financial stress lets you focus, take smart risks, and stay productive. With diverse income and the right protection, you gain the peace of mind to perform at your best.”
Achieving financial freedom also means making your money work for you. As Mark Barlow, Head of Family and Health Takaful Operations explains:
“You spend so much time working hard to earn your money—so make sure it works just as hard for you. Money sitting in the bank doesn’t grow significantly over time. That is why it is important to make sound investment decisions—by educating yourself or seeking financial advice from someone you trust.”
Start with a strong foundation- Financial planning and budgeting
Just like in life, having a strong financial foundation based on strategic planning and realistic budgeting will help you navigate your financial journey with confidence.
Financial planning is the process of managing your financial resources to meet your goals. Mark highlights the importance of early financial education as:
“Financial literacy begins at school. I firmly believe that as part of the school curriculum, young adults should learn and understand financial literacy, budgetary planning, how the markets work, and the different investment decisions you can make.” Gaining financial responsibility early empowers individuals to make smarter decisions.
Equally essential is to have clarity of your finances and creating a budget that works for you. Madalina Robu, Manager, Customer Service at Salama shares:
“Budgeting isn’t about restriction—it’s about clarity. By tracking what comes in and goes out, you can plan better, avoid unnecessary spending, and make smarter financial decisions.”
Learn more about planning your finances here: financial planning and wealth management.
Why is life insurance considered the core of financial security?
Many consider life insurance as a luxury instead of a necessity. As Abdul Qadir shares:
“Life insurance offers peace of mind in uncertain times, helping you stay focused, take calculated risks, and remain productive.”
While choosing a coverage, always base it on your risk appetite, financial goals, and overall financial situation. As Suraj Shetty, Manager, Plan Holder Services at Salama, explains:
“Clarity is key with life insurance. Term plans offer pure protection, while whole-of-life combines coverage with investment. With investment-based life insurance, funds can perform well or underperform based on external factors. So, it makes the timing of cancellation important. Choose a plan that aligns with your financial goals and track your investments regularly for a secure future.”
Additionally, Mark highlights:
“Life insurance is not just protection for your dependents but also a way to manage any debts you may have in case of any life-changing events.” Thus, having life insurance along with other mandatory covers can create a robust safety net.
Explore more about the benefits of life insurance /Family Takaful.
Investing with confidence
Once you have done the groundwork, it’s time to explore investing opportunities. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all investing approach. As Mark emphasizes:
“Diversification is key. Having a balanced portfolio of investments, including shares, property, cash, and bonds ensures that you are not putting your eggs all in one basket should a downturn happen.”
Furthermore, while investing, it is integral to consider your risk appetite. As Suraj explains:
“Choose investment funds based on your risk appetite—aggressive, moderate, or conservative. Aggressive funds carry higher risk with exposure to volatile funds, moderate funds balance aggressive and conservative, blending stocks and bonds, and conservative options focus on lower-risk assets like bonds or Sukuk. Always align your choice with your financial goals and diversify your portfolio.”
Finally, Abdul Qadir reminds us:
“You must be patient and disciplined while investing. Don’t jump into trades impulsively—wait for the right opportunity. Balance is key.”
Explore Salama’s different savings and investment options.
Conclusion
Remember, financial freedom isn’t attainable overnight. It is a result of consistency, informed decisions, and long-term thinking. With the right mix of skills, planning, protection, and investment, you can confidently move toward a financially secure and stress-free future.
Driving through the UAE offers breathtaking views of towering skyscrapers, endless deserts, and more. But as we immerse ourselves in these sights, it is key to drive safely, without speeding, and with precision.
As Imad Khashfeh, Head of Motor Claims at Salama reminds us, “We are committed to fulfilling our promise with your car insurance, but most importantly, we care deeply about your safety and well-being. Stay cautious and take the necessary precautions to be safe.”
In this blog, we bring you tips from our Motor Claims experts on how you can steer safely during Ramadan, in extreme weather conditions, and everyday situations. Read on to find out more!
Follow the road rules
“While on the road, it is essential to follow the rules for your and the safety of others,” says Khawwam Hussein, Senior Motor Claims officer with over 16 years of experience at Salama. However, some of us violate these rules, resulting in not just hefty fines, but also accidents.
According to the UAE’s Ministry of Interior, violations like tailgating, sudden lane changes and deviations, distractions, and negligence are leading causes of accidents. Therefore, as part of safe driving protocol, it is our responsibility to adhere to speed limits and other road safety rules. Furthermore, the UAE government supports road safety through initiatives like SCOOT, an adaptive central traffic control system, and speed management strategies.
Remember, even a minor error can impact not only us or those traveling with us, but also others who are following the rules. So, it is essential to stay vigilant and follow road safety guidelines.
Combat distractions
Staying focused while you are behind the wheel is vital. Sometimes, distractions could creep in – be it a notification on your phone, slight drowsiness, your kids crying, or even an eye-catching advertisement on the road. These small moments could pave the way for huge risks while driving.
Saeed Shannir, a Motor Claims expert at Salama, shares, “Keep your focus on the road because even a small distraction could result in major accidents.” Small measures like keeping your phone on do not disturb, or avoiding multitasking can make for a safer drive. If needed, pull your car over if a distraction needs your attention, such as taking a short power nap or just pausing to regather.
Embrace defensive driving
Driving in an emotional state, especially when you are stressed, fatigued, or irritated, could trigger an incident on the road. By simply adopting a defensive driving mind-set, observing your surroundings, anticipating potential dangers, and taking precautionary measures, you can help avoid this.
For instance, during Ramadan, as people head home for Iftar, there is a probability of increased accidents. Kareem Elazab, Executive Motor Claims Officer at Salama adds, “It’s essential to stay focused and calm under such scenarios.”
Additionally, driving defensively is crucial during adverse weather conditions like rain, hailstorm and sandstorms.
Vehicle maintenance is key
Regular car servicing and maintenance is critical for ensuring safety on the road. For instance, the UAE’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) recommends checking tire pressure every couple of weeks. This is vital, as tire bursts are a common cause of road accidents
“Lack of proper maintenance can even lead to claim rejections,” Saeed Shannir and Sonu Varghese, our motor claims experts at Salama warn. As part of staying safe and securing smooth claims processing, opt for regular vehicle inspection and maintenance of components like brakes, tires, lights, and other critical vehicle parts.
Modify your schedule for safe driving
Making slight alterations to your driving schedule could create a huge difference, especially while fasting during the holy month of Ramadan or when faced with unpredictable weather. As per Sonu Varghese, accident severity tends to increase when people head back home for Iftar.
To avoid such road perils prompted by traffic delays or speeding, it is essential to assess your driving schedules beforehand and make small adjustments, such as avoiding driving during peak hours and planning alternate routes. This can reduce the chances of encountering roadblocks or dangerous driving conditions.
Be weather-ready
“When you are driving during adverse weather conditions like heavy rain, sandstorms, or high winds, your visibility and control over the vehicle could be greatly reduced, and this can be dangerous,” Saeed Shannir highlights. He further points out, “In such scenarios, it is better to avoid driving altogether or only if it is necessary. If you must, then drive slowly.”
Sonu Varghese adds to this by saying, “During extreme weather conditions, especially when you receive early warnings from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), take precautions like avoiding parking in the basement, moving your car away from areas where it could flood, and limiting driving.”
If the weather worsens while driving, consider pulling over and wait until conditions improve. By adjusting your driving habits in these small yet impactful ways, you can protect yourself, our passengers, our vehicle and other drivers, while saving time and money.
Know your cover and claim process
“Understanding your car insurance is key to navigating through your claims process,” Kareem Elazab emphasizes. The better you know your policy, the easier it will be to understand what is and what is not covered.
For instance, it is important to understand the difference between Third Party and Comprehensive cover. Third Party coverage is mandatory for all drivers in the UAE, and it protects only third parties during an accident. Comprehensive covers both third parties and personal accident damages.
Read the policy terms and related documents. This will put us in a better position while making a claim. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to the insurance provider for any clarifications.
To drive safely in the UAE, we don’t need to make drastic changes. Incorporating simple and mindful measures can go a long way to stay protected on the road.
At Salama, we remain committed to shaping safer and brighter tomorrows together for our customers. Contact us to find out more about Auto Takaful and how we can provide the protection you deserve. By the way, we are delighted to offer 20% off while insuring your SUV with us this Ramadan. Check out our special Auto Takaful Ramadan offer here.
Most of us have aimed at adopting a healthy lifestyle, but, it has always stopped at just that — an aim. Ramadan allows us to embrace the benefits of fasting while staying healthy on a holistic level. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also highlighted that fasting during Ramadan could improve our mood, and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at how we can pay attention to our health during the holy month — and beyond — by making small adjustments in our daily routine.
Get your nutrients right in Ramadan
Suhoor (the early morning meal), and Iftar (the meal to break our fast), are essential for physical and spiritual well-being. Suhoor provides us with strength, while Iftar fosters gratitude and togetherness.
While fasting, it can be tempting to opt for quick and easy meals like fast food, instant noodles and sugary foods. However, these dietary choices can make us sluggish and dehydrated. Therefore, it is best to have a balanced and nutritious diet with:
- Protein-rich food items like eggs, tofu, and skinless meat
- Low-fat dairy products
- Slow-release carbohydrates like oats, rice and whole meal or multigrain bread and cereals
- Organic fruits and vegetables like watermelon and cucumbers
Nuts like almonds, pistachios and walnuts - Staying hydrated by drinking 8-10 glasses of water
Having nutritious meals with mindfulness and gratitude can improve our energy levels, promote healthy eating habits, and support overall well-being.
Prioritize rest throughout Ramadan
Sleep patterns could change in Ramadan, but it is vital to get adequate rest. To stay energized, rest after Suhoor and Fajr, take power naps during the day and aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep at night.
Some ways to enhance our sleep quality are improving our sleeping environment by avoiding distractions, and creating a relaxing pre-sleep routine with prayer, silent reflection or reading. Additionally, fasting during Ramadan can act as a form of detoxification, allowing our body to eliminate unnecessary toxins/chemicals and improve our metabolic processes.
Focus on personal and spiritual growth
Our daily routine is bound to change in the time of Ramadan with different mealtimes, work hours, and sleep schedules. This could sometimes lead to changes in our energy levels, moods, and ability to focus. To stay centered and focused throughout the holy month, here are a few things we can do:
- Connect and celebrate with others through Iftars and meaningful conversation
- Engage in acts of spiritual purification that stem from kindness and charity
- Embrace mindfulness with prayer and reflection
Set personal goals for spiritual development Adopting these practices will help us focus on our holistic well-being, stay mindful and spark optimism.
Stay active and listen to your body
Being physically active while fasting could help us stay healthy during Ramadan. It could be as simple as taking short walks or stretching before or after Suhoor or Iftar, when energy levels are at the highest.
For those who exercise regularly, try to maintain the same frequency, intensity, and duration to stay energized throughout the day. That being said, listen to the body and avoid overexertion.
Additionally, to ensure your well-being during Ramadan and beyond, it’s important to undergo regular health screenings. For instance, the Dubai Health Authority offers the Basmah patient support program, which provides full coverage for breast, colon, and cervical screenings and treatments for all Dubai residents who are enrolled in the Basic health insurance plan.
Conclusion
By choosing healthy eating habits, staying active, and prioritizing rest and growth, we can enhance our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness. However, always consult your physicians regarding adjustments to the dosage of your chronic medications alongside before making any dietary or exercise changes.
In a nutshell, remember, the key to staying healthy and happy during Ramadan and beyond is balance, consistency, and self-care.