How to apply for a disability card in Dubai

• PoD Card
• Sanad Card
• FAQs

The UAE Government has implemented policies and introduced numerous steps to make the country friendly for People of Determination. One such initiative was the People of Determination (PoD) Card. Applying for a disability card in Dubai ensures these individuals have unhindered access to services like parking, housing programs and legal help. Similarly, the Sanad Card is another Dubai Community Development Authority initiative that benefits People of Determination. Let’s learn more about ‘how to apply for a disability card in Dubai?’

Who are People of Determination?

Individuals with special needs are known as “People of Determination.” This term aligns with the UAE’s National Policy for Empowering People of Determination to recognise their achievements in different fields. This inclusive law defines PoD as people with permanent or temporary deficiencies or infirmities (either physical or mental) that inhibit their ability to perform tasks as efficiently as people without special needs.

The categories, as defined by the government, are as follows:

• Mental
• Auditory
• Visual
• Physical
• Autistic
• Multiple
• Psychological
• Communication
• Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity
• Specific Learning Difficulties

What is the People of Determination Card (PoD Card)?

This personal card is an official document issued by the Ministry of Community Empowerment (MOCE) to people with disabilities. The card indicates that the holder is entitled to the services and rights set forth by the UAE Disability Act of 2006. People of Determination can apply for a disability card in Dubai and get uninterrupted access to certain services.

PoD Card Benefits in Dubai

PoD ID cardholders enjoy unhindered access to public and private facilities in Dubai. Some popular benefits include the following:

• Etisalat and Du services: 50% discount for all categories
• UAE ID: Exemption for all fees for all categories
• Sheikh Zayed Housing Program: Priority housing for disabled UAE citizens (all categories)
• Dubai Municipality: Free entry for cardholder + 2 in public parks, dolphin shows, Dubai Frame and Children’s City
• Ministry of Interior: Free vehicle licence for all categories

Some of the other benefits offered by CDA Dubai include:

• Tuition and rehabilitation fees
• Caregiver or personal assistant services
• Professional qualifications
• Sign language translation
• Shadow teacher support
• Assistive technology devices
• Vehicle or transportation modifications
• Work environment adjustments

Please remember that cardholders might need to produce other documents besides their PoD card to use the services mentioned above. This may include requirements like a copy of the holder’s Emirates ID, passport copy, etc. For a complete list of benefits and additional requirements, visit the MOCE or CDA’s official website.

How to apply for a POD card in Dubai

Individuals interested in applying for a PoD card in Dubai must create a personal profile on the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Community Empowerment (MOCE) website or smart app. Once registered on the MOCE website, follow these steps:

• Select “PoD Card Issuance” and click “Start the Service”.
• Authenticate and sign in with UAE PASS credentials.
• Select “Apply for a New Card”.
• Provide Emirates ID or enter the Emirates ID of the beneficiary.
• Fill out all the required fields in the application form accurately.
• Upload all necessary supporting documents as specified.
• Carefully review your application and uploaded documents before final submission.
• You will be notified about the application submission and a unique reference number will be issued.

MOCE will then review your application for disability card registration and provide the card within 5 working days following approval.

WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED FOR A DISABILITY CARD REGISTRATION IN DUBAI

Documents required for issuing a PoD card in Dubai include:

• Medical or psychological diagnosis report approved by the People of Determination Welfare & Rehabilitation Centre
• Personal passport photo on a white background
• Copy of Emirates ID (both sides)
• Copy of Date of Birth certificate
• If an applicant is employed, the Employment Status details are required
• Any education/academic documents if the applicant is enrolled in an educational or training centre

You will receive a confirmation of your request via SMS and email. The diagnostic committee verifies the medical report submitted as part of the application. If you meet the eligibility criteria, the PoD card will be issued and delivered to your location.

Your existing PoD card will be renewed automatically upon expiry and delivered to your address via courier.

If your card is damaged or lost, you can request a replacement at the MOCE website or the Customer Happiness Centre.

Ministry of Community Empowerment Contact

Do you have more questions about applying for a disability card in Dubai? You can contact the relevant authorities at the toll-free number 800-623.

What is a Sanad Card?

The Sanad Smart Card offers exclusive services with up to 50% discounts on selected products/services required by disabled citizens, residents and visitors. They can also benefit from home nursing services, tourism services and more.

SANAD card is provided free of charge by the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai and aims to build a database for People of Determination in the emirate. The card aligns with an initiative called “My Community … A City for Everyone”, launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE.

Eligibility Criteria

There are many Sanad card benefits. However, residents or visitors with psychological, mental, sensory, kinetic and mental disabilities must complete specific eligibility requirements. People who fall under this category include:

• All UAE Nationals with disabilities living in Dubai
• Expats with disabilities living in Dubai
• Visitors to Dubai from foreign countries (Sanad card will be provided temporarily and is valid only for the duration of the stay)

Documentation required for Sanad Card

Documents required for Sanad Smart Cards (or disability cards in Dubai) depend on the nationality and visit durations. Here’s an overview to give you a better idea of your options:

UAE Nationals

UAE Nationals whose passport has been issued in Dubai are required to submit the following documents to be eligible for this disability card in Dubai:

• Emirates ID
• A copy of the passport
• An electronic copy of the medical report issued from a diagnostic agency approved by the Medical Committee in the emirate establishing the existence of the disability
• An electronic copy of the People of Determination card issued by the Ministry of Community Empowerment
• An electronic copy of a high-quality personal photograph (4X5 cm)

UAE Nationals whose passports have been issued in other emirates must also submit proof of residence in Dubai to be eligible for the Sanad Card. 

How to get Sanad Card for foreigners in Dubai

Foreign nationals (Non-Emirati residents) with disabilities must provide these documents while applying for SANAD cards.

• Personal photo (size 4 x 5 cm)
• A copy of the passport
• An electronic copy of the medical report issued from a diagnostic agency approved by the Medical Committee in the emirate establishing the existence of the disability
• An electronic copy of the People of Determination card issued by the Ministry of Community Empowerment
• Original Emirates ID

Additionally, expat applicants must produce proof of residence in Dubai to qualify for this disability card. 

Documents Required for Tourists

A disabled tourist applying for a Sanad Card must produce these documents:

• Copy of (Dubai-issued) visit visa
• Certified proof of residence
• Copy of passport (valid for six months)
• Clear personal photo (4 x 5 cm)
• An electronic copy of the medical report or disability card approved by the home country

You can apply for the Sanad Card through the Community Development Authority official website, CDA Customer Happiness Centre, CDA Dubai and the Sanad Communication Application.

The CDA usually takes three working days to replace, renew and issue Sanad Cards. Please note that the service time for new cards can vary if additional documents are requested.

Community Development Authority in Dubai Contact

If you have questions about the Sanad Card, contact the authorities at the toll-free number 800-2121. You can also call +971-4-429-9888.

FAQS ABOUT HOW TO APPLY FOR A DISABILITY CARD IN DUBAI

HOW TO APPLY FOR DISABILITY CARD RENEWAL IN DUBAI?

You don’t need to apply for a disability card renewal in Dubai. It is an automated service, and the card is delivered to your home address post-expiry.

DO I NEED TO PAY WHEN APPLYING FOR A DISABILITY CARD IN DUBAI?

No, this is a free service.

What are the MOCE timings?

MOCE working hours are:

• Monday to Thursday: 07:30 am to 03:30 pm
• Fridays: 07:30 am to 12:00 pm
• Closed on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays

That’s all you need to know about applying for a disability card in Dubai. Did you know that RTA’s public transport options, including trams and metro, use tactile paving in Dubai to assist the visually impaired? To learn more about UAE’s efforts to provide inclusive services to disabled residents and visitors, check out Dubai’s facilities for People of Determination.

Are you looking for academic institutes for children with special needs in the UAE? Learn more about the top special needs schools in Dubai.