The UAE has always been concerned about its citizens’ well-being. In support of this, the UAE government has introduced the Sanad Card, an initiative that aims to make life easier for the determined ones – a term used for people with special needs.
Let’s learn more about the Sanad Card, its benefits and how people of determination (PoD) can apply for this card.
- What Is the Sanad Card?
- What Are the Eligibility Criteria and Application Process for Sanad Card?
- What Are the Documents Required to Get Sanad Card?
- How to Apply?
- Sanad Card Benefits for the UAE Nationals and Expats
- FAQs
1. What Is the Sanad Card?
The Sanad Card is a government-issued initiative by Dubai’s Community Development Authority (CDA). It provides a gateway to benefits that empower the People of Determination (PoD).
This smart card grants unhindered access to legal help. This card allows people of determination to benefit from a housing scheme and an exemption of entrance fees to several recreational spots.
Car drivers, for instance, have access to benefits like free driving licenses in Dubai, designated parking, and relaxation of traffic rules. Moreover, they get free car parking in Dubai and other Emirates.
2. What Are the Eligibility Criteria and Application Process for Sanad Card?
Anyone residing in Dubai with a documented physical, sensory, intellectual, or learning disability can apply for a Sanad Card. This includes:
- The UAE nationals
- Expatriates with valid residency visas
- Tourists with temporary visit visas
3. What Are the Documents Required to Get Sanad Card?
The required documents for Sanad Card vary depending on your nationality and residency status:
UAE Nationals
- A soft copy of your Emirates ID card
- An electronic copy of the passport (with an expiry date of less than 6 months)
- An electronic copy of a recent medical report detailing your disability issued by a Dubai-approved diagnostic agency. The agency should be recognised by the Medical Committee in the Emirate of Dubai
- A soft copy of the Dubai family book
- A clear and high-resolution digital passport-sized photo (4×5 cm)
- A soft copy of the PoD card issued by the Ministry of Community Development (if available)
- The UAE nationals who hold Mustaha or any other right to housing and development must also submit proof of residence
Expatriates in Dubai
- A soft copy of your valid Dubai residency visa
- An electronic copy of the Emirates ID
- An electronic copy of a recent medical report detailing your disability, issued by a Dubai-approved diagnostic agency. The agency should be recognised by the Medical Committee in the Emirate of Dubai
- A copy of your passport with a validity period exceeding six months
- A clear, high-resolution digital passport-sized photo (4 x 5 cm)
- A soft copy of the PoD card issued by the Ministry of Community Development (if available)
- A soft copy of proof of residence in Dubai
Tourists in Dubai
- A copy of your Dubai visit visa
- Proof of residence in Dubai (e.g., hotel booking confirmation)
- An electronic copy of a medical report approved by your home country or a disability card issued by your home country’s relevant authority
- A copy of your passport with a validity period exceeding six months
- A clear, high-resolution digital passport-sized photo (4×5 cm)
4. How to Apply?
There are three convenient ways to apply for a Sanad Card:
- Online
Visit the CDA website and navigate to the Sanad Card application portal. Fill out the online form and upload the required documents electronically.
- CDA Customer Happiness Centers
Visit any CDA Customer Happiness Centre in Dubai. Staff will assist you with the application process and document submission.
- Sanad Communication App
Download the “Sanad Communication App” (iOS | Android), also called CDA SANAD RELAY, on your smartphone. The app allows you to submit your application electronically.
5. Sanad Card Benefits for the UAE Nationals and Expats
The UAE Government has given equal rights to every resident. Sanad card is one such example. The Sanad card offers the following benefits to people of determination, making their lives much easier:
Government Services
- The Sanad Card facilitates access to government services and programs designed to support PoDs.
- Free entrance to Dubai Municipality parks and plenty of other popular destinations such as Dubai Frame, Sarouk Iron Museum and Dolphin Shows.
- Sanad Card holders can obtain free RTA parking permits in designated areas, easing parking concerns.
- Discounts on Nol cards.
- Free special taxis in Ajman.
- Exemption from Salik road toll charges provides additional financial relief.
Transportation
- Enjoy discounted fares on public transportation across Dubai’s extensive network.
- Access discounted rates for wheelchair-accessible taxis.
Travel
Priority boarding and check-in at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC), making air travel less stressful.
Education and Training
Special arrangements to instruct and guide the PoD in all the major government institutions and public places.
Additional Facilities
Experience quicker service at government departments, saving valuable time. Exemption from long lines and queues at all public places, including major supermarkets, hospitals, public offices, post offices, schools, etc.
6. FAQs
The processing time for a Sanad Card application typically takes 1-2 working days for renewals and new card issuances. However, this may vary depending on if additional documents are required.
No, applying for a Sanad Card is completely free of charge.
Yes, all applicants for a Sanad Card require a recent medical report detailing their disability. This report must be issued by a Dubai-approved diagnostic agency recognised by the Medical Committee in the Emirate of Dubai.
All in all, the Sanad card plays a pivotal role in promoting the welfare and inclusion of the PoDs. It empowers them to have equal opportunities in all spheres of life, thus having more fulfilled lives. Another exemplary facility set out by the UAE government is the Esaad Card.
Get to know everything about the Esaad Card and how to register for it from our detailed guide.
