Dubai: In the UAE, the authorities have introduced a range of features to make life easier for people of determination. Foremost among them is the Sanad card, which is available for residents and visitors, upon showing proof of disability.What is the Sanad card?The Sanad card provides exclusive privileges to people of determination in Dubai, and ensures they have access to privileges and services provided by different entities.It was launched in 2015 by the Community Development Authority (CDA), as part of the ‘My Community, A Place for Everyone’ initiative 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, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.The CDA also introduced a digital Sanad tourist card for international visitors in April 2025.What are the benefits of a Sanad card?The Sanad card enables holders to receive a wide range of benefits, such as free parking in Dubai, discounts on monthly phone plans, and in hospitals, as well as exemptions from certain fees.Here are some benefits, according to the CDA:Free parking permit issuance (one vehicle per person).Exemption from vehicle registration fees by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).Exemption from Salik fees (one vehicle per person), and public transport fees.50% discount on monthly home internet packages, prepaid mobile data packs and post-paid plans.50% discount on taxi fares.Access to Dubai Police’s Labaih Service, which enables visitors to complete transactions without leaving their vehicles.Exclusive discounts at malls, restaurants, pharmacies, healthcare and medical services.Priority access to government services.Free entry and discounts at major attractions and entertainment venues, such as the Dubai Frame, Dubai museums, Dubai public parks, Burj Khalifa (At the Top), Dubai Safari, Children’s City and more.Required documentsIn order to apply for a Sanad card, ensure you have the following documents ready to present, based on the specifications of the CDA.For residents of Dubai:Electronic copy of a valid Emirates IDElectronic copy of a medical report issued by a recognised diagnostic authority within the country, confirming the disability and detailing it according to the UAE’s Unified National Classification.Electronic copy of proof of residence in DubaiThe Sanad card is valid for two years.For tourists in Dubai:Electronic copy of a certified medical report from the individual’s home country, or an official disability card issued by their home country.Electronic copy of a recent high-quality personal photograph (4cm by 5cm in dimensions).The card is valid for two months.How to apply for a Sanad cardYou can apply for a Sanad card via the Dubai Now app, CDA’s website or app, and via a Customer Happiness Centre in Dubai.Apply through Dubai Now app:If you would like to apply via the Dubai Now app, follow these steps:Download the Dubai Now app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Log in with your UAE PASS if you are a resident, or sign in as a guest if you are a tourist.Select the ‘Community’ category and tap on ‘Sanad Card’ or ‘Sanad Tourist Card’, based on your requirements.Submit the required documents, and fill in your details, such as your phone number and address.Upon submission, you will receive your digital card within just 24 hours.Apply through CDA’s website:To apply for a Sanad card through CDA’s online portal, follow these steps:Visit CDA’s website – cda.gov.ae – and log in with your UAE PASS or sign in as a guest if you are a tourist.Click on ‘Services’ and navigate to ‘Determined Ones’. Select ‘Issue Sanad Card’.Complete the application form with your contact details, and upload the required documents.The CDA completes the service within one working day for tourists, and within two working days for other applicants.Apply through a Customer Happiness Centre:To apply for the Sanad card in person, visit a CDA Customer Happiness Centre at Al Barsha Community Centre, Al Twar Municipality Centre, or Hatta Community Centre. You can find the full list of centre locations here: cda.gov.ae/en/pages/contctus.aspx.Follow these steps:Visit a Customer Happiness Centre.Submit your physical documents to a service desk agent.Complete any required verification forms with the help of the centre staff.You will receive a reference tracking number for your application.It typically takes three working days for the service to be completed, after which, your digital or physical card will be issued.
