All you need to know about the Absher Card
The UAE government has launched many initiatives to support the various people living in the city. One such system that has been created is the Absher Card, a privilege membership dedicated especially for UAE nationals working in the private sector.
All about the Absher Card?
UAE as a country welcomes talent from across the world. In the eyes of the law, all citizens are equal and any form of discrimination is not tolerated. A multicultural Dubai is a shining example of this harmony and strength in diversity.
What is an Absher Card?
Absher Card is an exclusive ‘discount and privilege card’ for UAE nationals employed in the private sector. It is a targeted relief system offering special benefits and offers to help this segment of society to meet their needs.
What is the Absher Card Eligibility Criteria?
To become a member of the program, one has to meet the Absher Card eligibility criteria. Here are the requirements to give you a better idea:
- UAE nationals only.
- Possession of Labour card issued by the Minister of Labour.
- To be working at a private sector company for at least six months (calculated from the data labour card is issued).
- Registration with pension fund retirement bonuses for Abu Dhabi or General pensions and social security.
- Three-month salary conversion through a wage protection system (WPS).
- Electronic approval of the registration form requirements.
What is Absher Card Validity?
The Absher Card is valid for 12 months. Hence to avail of the Absher Card benefits, one has to renew it every year.
What is the Absher Card Renewal Process?
You can apply for a new card only when your existing card expires. There is no automatic or direct Absher Card renewal. Hence, you will have to make a new Absher Card application.
Who can use the Absher Card?
Only the Absher Card-holders can avail of the discounts and offers. One cannot hand it out to a friend or family member.
Where can I find the list of Offers?
The full list of offers on Absher Card is available on the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation website. Some of the prominent ones include the following:
- Air Ticket discounts by Air Arabia
- Absher Plan for Du customers
- Absher Plan for Etisalat customers
- Emirates NBD
- Sultan Al Olama Medical
- Car sales and after-sales services of Kia and Hyundai
- Sales discount on Touch of Oud Products
- The Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group – Electrical fittings
* Offers are updated/changed from the list periodically.
How do I apply for an Absher Card?
The Absher Card registration process is as follows.
- Visit the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation official portal.
- Click on the Absher Initiative tab.
- Select “registration of citizens working in the private sector”
- Input business card number.
- Attach the required documents and fill in the form.
- Go through the terms and conditions and accept them.
- Your application will be reviewed in due time and you will be notified about the acceptance of your application.
- The card will be delivered at the address given in the form. Upon delivery, you will have to prove your identity. No one else can receive the card on your behalf.
- In the case the application doesn’t meet the criteria, the applicant shall be informed duly.
Conditions of use for the Absher Card?
All users have to adhere to the following Absher card conditions:
- The offers of the card can only be availed by the titleholder of the card.
- The card can only be used on the places mentioned on the website of the Ministry of Labour.
- These offers cannot be availed along with other promotional offers or discounts.
- If an employee switches jobs, he or she must reapply for a new Absher Card.
- Ministry holds the right to cancel the card in case of misuse at any time.
- Terms and conditions of the card can be amended at any time
I manage a Company and would like to Offer Discounts via Absher Card. What is the Registration Process?
Companies can register and be a part of this program. This could also help them with their sales as with discounts, customers are more likely to spend money and buy their products.
The process of registration is fairly straightforward.
- Visit the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation official portal.
- Click on the Absher Initiative tab on the home page.
- Click on supporting companies tab.
- Attach required documents and fill in the form.
- Go through the terms & conditions and accept them.
- If the conditions are met, a representative from the Ministry will notify the company.
- A Memorandum of understanding (MOU) will be signed between the company and the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation to initiate the deal.
- In case, conditions are not met, the company will be given another opportunity to improve their offer.
I have a query. Where can I call and get a clarification?
You can call at 80060 to speak to a MOHRE representative.
Each year, new services are added to the Absher Card, which means greater discounts and more offers are available for the users. While it is a privilege for a specific segment, it has a greater benefit for the businesses as well as the economy on a macro-level. Such strategic decisions can assist in progression and raise the standard of living of everyone.
The Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) has also taken many significant steps and introduced various schemes which have had a long-term positive impact on society. A small example is that one can check their labour contract status online via the Ministry’s Official Website. Moreover, as an immediate step to deal with COVID-19 crisis, the Ministry has laid out guidelines for work permit renewals.
Keep following MyBayut to learn all about governmental schemes, employment policies and more.
