The Ultimate Guide to Getting a Free People of Determination (PoD) Card in the UAE

The UAE has always been at the forefront of inclusion. Here, People of Determination (PoD) are entitled to benefits, from free parking to discounts at telecoms providers. Etisalat and Du and free admission to popular attractions.

However, it is necessary to present a PoD card.

Introduced and issued by the Ministry of Community Development, The PoD card is considered an official document indicating that its holder is a person of determination.

The card ensures that people of determination receive the services to which they are entitled under the Federal Law on Persons with Disabilities No. 29 of 2006 and other related regulations.

Here is a guide to applying for the card online:

Required documents

• You need a copy of your DNI (front and back)
• You also need a medical report whether physical, visual, hearing, communication or psychological disability (mental disability, autism, attention deficit, hyperactivity and psychological) from any government hospital. It must be by an authorized body that certifies the existence of the disability.
• You would also need a personal photo with a white background.

Eligibility

• The person must be a UAE national or resident of the country.
• The applicant must be from the following categories (mental, auditory, visual, physical, autistic, multiple)
• The person must be diagnosed by an official medical or psychological authority and approved by the Department of Care and Rehabilitation of People of Determination.
• The existence of medical or psychological reports that prove the existence of the disability in terms of its type and severity, and the tools or assistance devices to be used.

Note: (If the report is more than one page attached in a pdf file or word document)

Rates and service time.

The service is free and the card will be issued after 10 business days.

Process

• Before you begin, you must create a personal profile by clicking the link: https://mocd.gov.ae/en/eservices/member-registration.aspx
• The ministry will use your personal data registered with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship; so before requesting the service, please update your information with the authority https://www.ica.gov.ae.
• Once you get the OTP, fill the form and submit it
• You can submit the request through the website or smart app.
• The customer will then receive an email and text message upon shipment and will be informed when the status changes.
• The department will then process the request and validate the information provided.
• The diagnostic committee will verify the medical report provided by the applicant.
• Once data validation is completed and successful, the card will be issued to the applicant.
• The issued card will be sent via postal service.

News Source: Khaleej Times