MoCE POD ID Card
Introduction
The UAE recognizes & facilitates the people of determination by issuing them a POD ID Card which serves as the primary identification for POD individuals. This card is issued by the UAE Government - Ministry of Community Development (MOCD) in order to facilitate and improve the quality of life and well being of the POD individuals. This card ensures that POD individuals' right are safeguarded as per Federal Persons with Disabilities Law No. (29) of 2006.
This card also allows POD individuals to avail several benefits from various organizations across the country. This card has been around since 2014 and is now accepted country wide as an official proof of POD status. Around 4,000+ cards are issued every year to the deserving individuals.
The full step by step process for getting this card is detailed in the sections below.
Benefits
This card provides streamlined access to government and private sector services, ensuring priority and convenience in various areas such as healthcare, education, and transportation. Holders of the POD card also enjoy exclusive privileges like discounted services, parking permits, and tailored programs aimed at empowering them and fostering inclusivity in society. By addressing specific needs, the MOCD POD card plays a vital role in promoting independence and improving the quality of life for People of Determination.
For more details on the benefits offered by this card click the link below.
MOCD Card Benefits
The MOCD website lists these benefits as Secondary Benefits (Arabic) and List of Benefits (English).
How to apply for a new card
To apply for a new POD ID card, please note the following details.Requirements
You need the following in order to start the application:
- Photograph (white background)
- Emirates ID copy
- Medical/Psychological Assessment Report issued by a government hospital.
Psychological Assessment Report: required for Autism and Mental disabilities.
Medical Assessment Report: required for Sensory and Physical disabilities.
Tip For expats, its recommended to apply for this card right after renewing the visa for the POD. The reason is that MOCD card validity for expats is the same as the validity of the visa. Therefore to avoid frequent renewals, and extend the period of availing the benefits of this card its advised to renew it right after renewing the visa.
Procedure
To apply for a new POD ID card please click on the Apply Now button given below which will redirect you to the MOCD E-Services page for applying for this service. You must first be registered on the MOCD website to be able to apply for this service. The registered person must be a UAE resident/national and they can apply for this card for themselves or apply on behalf of their family.
The name of this service in the MOCD website/app is Issuing a new card for the People of Determination.
Fees
This service is Free.
However, you would be required to pay for the card delivery charges which happens via a courier company.
Processing Time
The maximum processing time for this service is 10 working days, however general feedback indicates its completed within 3/4 working days most of the time.
Apply NowHow to renew an existing card
Thankfully, MOCD has taken upon itself to automatically renew the POD card upon expiry. So there is no action required. The card is automatically sent by courier once your Emirates ID is renewed (for Expats that means whenever your visa is renewed > your Emirates ID will be "renewed" > your MOCD card will be renewed).
"We are pleased to inform you that the Renewal of the People of Determination card is a proactive service, card will be automatically renewed upon its expiry date, and it will be delivered to you via courier company. If you didn't receive the card within the renewal period please contact the call center 800623."
Frequently Asked Questions
- Valid Emirates ID
- Medical Assessment Report
- Passport copy (if applicable)
- Recent photograph
Depending on the condition of the POD individual, they may need physical or cognitive support from the accompanying person/parent (e.g. in navigating the physical space by pushing the wheel chair or asking around for directions to the reception, etc.). Most establishments/companies understand this and offers either full privileges or at least a discount on regular cost.
Comments (6)
Kate Irish Mae Lazaro
24-Feb-2025 12:58 PMOn behalf of my husband, who is a Person of Determination. Last night, we visited the cinema, and the staff requested an updated ID indicating that he requires an accompanying person.
I just wanted to check—do we need to apply for a new and updated ID for this?
Shad nabi Khan Ghani
21-Feb-2025 07:24 PMPlease my card renewal
John Smith
19-Feb-2025 02:52 PMOn the first card my son received, he had Accompanied with other person, but this was removed when his card was renewed. Is there a reason for this?
John Smith
18-Feb-2025 09:50 PMOn my sons first card, it had Accompanied with a person printed on the back. However, on his new card (after renewal), this is missing. Is this a mistake or is there a reason for this?
Qudsia Zaidi
19-Jan-2025 03:53 PMYou can apply for a temporary Sanad Card, which offers benefits like priority service, discounts, and access to facilities across transport, tourism, and entertainment. Although I am not sure if the effort required to get it done (officially 2 WD) and the priviliges that you intend to get for such a short trip of yours will make sense or not. IMHO you dont need it as Dubai/Abu Dhabi is very accessible, with wheelchair-friendly transport, hotels, and public spaces, etc.
Veerle Cnudde
19-Jan-2025 01:08 PMDear, we are from Europe and will be traveling in Dubai and Abu Dhabi with our 11 year old son, who has a European disability card. Is this one also recognized as valid during our stay of 1 week as tourists? Thank you!
