The UAE government continues to launch initiatives that empower People of Determination and promote inclusivity across society. One of the most important of these initiatives is the People of Determination Card, an official identification card issued by the Ministry of Community Empowerment for individuals with disabilities.
The People of Determination Card serves as proof of eligibility to access a wide range of government and private-sector services and benefits across the UAE. Cardholders can benefit from facilities such as housing support programs, educational services, healthcare advantages, and free parking in designated areas, particularly in Dubai. The card also helps ensure equal access to opportunities and services, supporting the UAE’s broader vision of social inclusion.
In this guide, we explain what the People of Determination Card is, who is eligible, how to apply, the required documents, the renewal process, and the key benefits available to cardholders. We also highlight the latest updates regarding the card’s expansion to Abu Dhabi.
- Who Is Included in the People of Determination Category?
- Overview of People of Determination Card
- Eligibility Criteria
- Required Documents
- How to Apply for a People of Determination Card
- PoD Card Renewal
- Benefits of the PoD Card
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
Who Is Included in the People of Determination Category?
According to the UAE National Standard Classification, individuals with the following disabilities are included in the People of Determination category:
- Intellectual disabilities
- Hearing impairments
- Visual impairment
- Physical disabilities
- Autism
- Psychiatric disabilities
- Communication disorders
- Attention-deficit or hyperactivity disorder
- Deaf-blind disabilities
- Specific learning disabilities
- Multiple disabilities
Overview of the People of Determination Card
The UAE is committed to fostering an inclusive environment for People of Determination, ensuring equal rights and opportunities across all sectors. Under Federal Law No. 29 of 2006, People of Determination are guaranteed the same rights as other members of society, reinforcing the country’s vision of social inclusion and empowerment.
One of the key initiatives supporting this vision is the People of Determination Card (PoD Card) issued by the Ministry of Community Empowerment. The card was introduced to protect the rights of People of Determination and enable access to a wide range of services and facilities across sectors such as housing, education, healthcare, and mobility. Starting January 2026, the initiative will expand to Abu Dhabi through a new unified card system, allowing eligible residents to access a broader range of federal and local services. Applications for Abu Dhabi residents will be accepted through designated local authorities, creating a more streamlined and consistent system of support across the emirate.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria to register for a People of Determination Card:
- Must be a UAE citizen or resident; this card is not valid for tourists.
- Have medical reports proving a disability within the categories specified by the UAE National Standard Classification of Disabilities.
- Either the beneficiary or their caregiver should apply.
Required Documents
Issuance of new cards for People of Determination in the UAE requires a set of documents, such as:
- Emirates ID
- Passport
- Photograph (white background)
- Copy of visa
- Academic documents (for those enrolled in any educational institution)
- Employment details (for employed applicants)
- Ejari registration certificate
- Copy of medical reports approved by one of the MOCE-registered medical centres. The reports must detail everything about the disability.
How to Apply for a People of Determination Card
Applicants can apply easily through the MOCE official website. Let’s look at the process and fees:
Process
Follow these steps for a quick and hassle-free application:
- Visit the MOCE official website.
- Navigate to the ‘PoD Card Issuance’ service.
- Click ‘Start the Service.’
- Log in using the UAE Pass.
- Choose ‘Apply for a New Card.’
- Enter the Emirates ID of the beneficiary.
- Fill out the form and attach the required documents.
- Apply and receive a confirmation notification with a reference number.
- MOCE will review and approve or reject the application.
- If approved, the card will be issued and sent via courier to the beneficiary’s address.
Service Time
The card issuance process can take up to five working days.
Service Fees
The service is free, but courier charges are applicable for card deliveries.
PoD Card Renewal
The expiry period of a PoD Card for citizens is five years, while for expat residents, it depends on the Emirates ID expiry date. Temporary cards require renewal upon expiry, which involves submitting documents again. In this case, the MOCE will notify the beneficiary via SMS.
On the contrary, permanent cards are renewed automatically by the MOCE for citizens. In the case of expats, the card is renewed upon renewal of the Emirates ID. The MOCE will deliver the renewed card to the beneficiary’s home address.
Benefits of the PoD Card
PoD cardholders can benefit from different facilities in the public and private sectors. This includes discounts on services, free parking, exclusive entry to various places and fee exemptions for government services. Here is a brief on what benefits the card offers:
- Get a free parking permit and enjoy easy access to designated parking spaces.
- Fee exemption for the issuance of the UAE ID and vehicle licence.
- Helps issue Fazaa Hemam e-cards, providing comprehensive services.
- Enjoy free entry to Dubai Municipality parks, dolphin shows, the Dubai Frame and more.
- Get discounts on various services in different sectors.
- Participate in programs exclusively designed for People of Determination.
- Benefit from the Sheikh Zayed Housing Program.
Key Takeaways
The People of Determination Card highlights the UAE’s commitment to inclusion by providing access to essential services and benefits. Understanding the eligibility, application process, and available support helps individuals make the most of this initiative. With its expansion into Abu Dhabi, the card’s impact is set to grow across the UAE.
FAQs
In most cases, applying for the People of Determination Card is free of charge. However, requirements and fees, if any, may vary depending on the emirate and the type of services requested. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant authority during the application process.
The processing time for the People of Determination Card varies based on document verification and assessment procedures. Typically, applicants receive the card within a few weeks after submitting a complete application. Processing timelines may differ slightly as the unified card system is introduced in Abu Dhabi.
Sanad Card is an initiative of the Community Development Authority to facilitate the People of Determination. Cardholders can access discounted services, free driving licences, and free parking in Dubai.
