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Dubai has introduced the Sanad Tourist Card, a ground-breaking initiative aimed at enhancing the travel experience for tourists with disabilities, referred to as People of Determination (PoD). Launched by the Community Development Authority (CDA), the card is the first of its kind globally. This card offers a range of benefits, ensuring that tourists with disabilities can explore the city with greater ease and comfort.
What Is the Sanad Tourist Card?
The Sanad Tourist Card is an identity card issued by the Community Development Authority (CDA) of Dubai. It is intended to provide visitors with disabilities with a number of benefits while they are in Dubai. The card promotes accessibility and inclusivity across the city, making it easier to access programs, services, and facilities designed to support PoDs.
Who Can Apply for the Sanad Tourist Card?
The Sanad Tourist Card is available to tourists visiting Dubai. To be eligible, applicants must provide proof of their disability, such as a medical report or a disability card issued by their home country’s relevant authority.
How to Apply for the Sanad Tourist Card
Tourists can apply for the Sanad Tourist Card through the following methods:
1. Download The Dubai Now App
- Download the Dubai Now App: The app is available on both iOS (App Store) and Android (Google Play Store). Simply search for “Dubai Now,” download, and install it.
- Sign Up or Log In: If you don’t already have an account, you’ll need to create one using your email address and mobile number. You can also log in using UAE Pass for a seamless experience.
- Navigate to Sanad Card Services: On the home screen, go to the “Community” section or use the search bar to look for “Sanad Card.”
- Select ‘Apply for Sanad Tourist Card’: Choose the tourist version of the card from the available options. The tourist card is designed specifically for non-residents visiting Dubai.
- Fill in the Application Form:
You will need to provide:- Passport details
- UAE visa copy
- Proof of disability (medical certificate or relevant documentation from your home country)
- Passport-size photo
- Upload Required Documents: Scan or take clear photos of the above documents and upload them directly within the app.
- Submit Application: After verifying your details, hit the “Submit” button. You will receive a reference number for tracking.
2. CDA Customer Happiness Centers in Dubai
You can visit any CDA Customer Happiness Center if you’re already in Dubai and receive service in person. To help residents and tourists with official services, these government-run service centers are positioned thoughtfully throughout the city. The steps are pretty simple and straightforward:
- Visit a Center: Use Google Maps or the CDA website to locate the closest CDA Customer Happiness Center. Although it is not required to make an appointment in advance, it is advised to arrive early.
- Submission of Documents: Carry hard copies of your passport, visa, proof of disability, and photo. You will receive assistance with the application from staff members.
- On-the-Spot Help: The support staff will assist in making sure all of your documentation is in order and is trained to handle applications for People of Determination.
- Follow-Up: Once your application is submitted, you may receive a tracking number to monitor progress. Most applicants receive their Sanad Tourist Card within 24–48 hours.
This option is particularly helpful for those who prefer face-to-face interactions or need help understanding the application process.
3. Sanad Communication App
The Sanad Communication App provides a mobile-first experience for tech-savvy tourists. The app is made to act as a central platform for PoDs and is compatible with both iOS and Android. Below are the steps:
- Download the app: Look up “Sanad Communication” by CDA on Google Play and the App Store to find it for free.
- Create an Account or Log In: New users can use their UAE mobile number or email address to create an account.
- Go to the section for Sanad Tourist Cards: Navigate to the “Services” tab in the app and choose “Sanad Tourist Card.”
- Upload Documents and Submit: You can either take pictures of your passport, visa, and medical records or use your phone to upload digital copies of them.
- Track Application: The app allows real-time tracking of your application status and provides alerts when your card is ready.
This method is ideal for those who prefer convenience and want to handle everything through their smartphones.
Documents Required for Tourists
Tourist applicants need to provide the following documents:
- A copy of the Dubai visit visa.
- A copy of the passport with a validity period exceeding six months.
- An electronic copy of a medical report or disability card approved by the applicant’s home country.
- Proof of residence in Dubai (e.g., hotel booking confirmation).
- A recent high-resolution digital passport-sized photo (4×5 cm).
Cost of the Sanad Tourist Card
The Sanad Tourist Card is issued free of charge to all eligible applicants. There are no fees associated with the application or issuance of the card.
Benefits of the Sanad Tourist Card
Holders of the Sanad Tourist Card can enjoy a variety of benefits designed to enhance their experience in Dubai:
1. Government Services
The ability to access a range of government services in Dubai is one of the biggest benefits of having a Sanad Tourist Card. Thanks to specially created support measures, People of Determination (PoDs) visiting the city can interact with public programs and facilities with ease. For example, cardholders are entitled to free admission to parks owned by the Dubai Municipality, including family-friendly locations like Mushrif Park, Al Mamzar Beach Park, and Zabeel Park. In addition to being easily accessible, these parks provide peaceful green areas perfect for unwinding.
Sanad cardholders can enter parks and well-known cultural sites like the Dubai Frame and the Sarouk Al Hadid Archaeology Museum for free. These attractions are completely accessible and offer engaging historical and cultural experiences. Additionally, tourists travelling in private vehicles or renting cars can explore the city without worrying about accruing tolls, thanks to the exemption from Salik road toll charges, which makes it easier for them to move around Dubai.
2. Transportation Benefits
The Sanad Tourist Card makes traveling around Dubai much more convenient and reasonably priced. All public transportation, including the Dubai Metro, public buses, and the Dubai Tram, has reduced fares when using the card. Over the course of a trip, this can save a significant amount of money, especially for tourists who intend to see different areas of the city. These savings lessen dependency on paid or private options and promote independent travel.
Additionally, Sanad cardholders receive discounted rates on Dubai’s wheelchair-accessible taxis, making transportation not only more economical but also more inclusive. For the comfort of visitors with physical disabilities, these cars are outfitted with ramps, safety harnesses, and skilled drivers. The program demonstrates Dubai’s overarching goal of making the city completely accessible to all people, irrespective of their physical capabilities.
3. Travel Perks at Airports
The benefits of the Sanad Tourist Card are also extended to air travel, making travel even more convenient. Both Dubai World Central (DWC) and Dubai International Airport (DXB) grant cardholders priority check-in and boarding privileges. Travellers who might find long lines and prolonged standing periods physically taxing will find these benefits especially beneficial as they reduce waiting times.
Additionally, airport employees are trained to identify the Sanad Card and offer cardholders individualized support during their stay at the airport. Every stage of the trip, from security checks to boarding gates, and from check-in counters to immigration, is run with accessibility in mind. This can greatly increase comfort and lessen travel-related stress for visitors coming to or leaving Dubai.
4. Education and Training Support
Tourists may not anticipate receiving educational support during a brief visit, but Dubai’s inclusiveness standards guarantee otherwise. Access to special accommodations and support within important government establishments, such as training and educational settings, is made possible by the Sanad Tourist Card. For visitors taking part in training sessions, seminars, workshops, or exhibitions, this can be extremely helpful.
Venues hosting training sessions provide accessible seating arrangements, assistive listening devices, and accessible formats of materials (such as large print or braille) upon request. Government offices are also required to offer direction and one-on-one support to PoDs who might require assistance with official processes, such as obtaining emergency services or tourist information.
5. Additional Facilities and Priority Access
The Sanad Tourist Card’s capacity to expedite routine experiences is arguably one of its most practical features. By providing priority service at government offices, the card reduces the time required for tasks like document verification, license applications, and health-related paperwork. In many public offices, Sanad card holders have access to express counters where they can get help without having to wait around.
Outside of government settings, the card offers a way to avoid standing in line at public places like supermarkets and hospitals. Public spaces can get crowded during the busiest travel seasons, so this is especially helpful. Sanad cardholders are given priority access, which helps them save energy and have a more seamless experience whether they are shopping for necessities, getting medical care, or using municipal services.
Processing Time
The processing time for the Sanad Tourist Card application typically takes 1-2 working days. However, this may vary depending on the completeness of the submitted documents and any additional requirements.
The Sanad Tourist Card is a significant step towards making Dubai a more inclusive and accessible destination for tourists with disabilities. By offering a range of benefits and facilitating easier access to services, the card ensures that People of Determination can fully enjoy their visit to the city. Tourists planning to visit Dubai are encouraged to apply for the Sanad Tourist Card to take advantage of the support and privileges it offers.
FAQs
1. What is the Sanad Tourist Card?
The Dubai government introduced the Sanad Tourist Card, a unique identity card for People of Determination (people with disabilities) who are traveling to the city. It provides a number of advantages, including priority services, transportation savings, and free admission to attractions.
2. Who can apply for a Sanad Tourist Card?
The Sanad Tourist Card can be applied for by any visitor to Dubai who is recognized as a Person of Determination (having valid disability documentation from their home country).
3. Does the Sanad Tourist Card come with a price?
No, eligible tourists can get the Sanad Tourist Card for free. During the application process, applicants only need to submit the required paperwork.
4. Where do I submit my Sanad Tourist Card application?
Three primary methods are available for you to apply for the card: The Community Development Authority of Dubai’s (CDA) website Dubai’s CDA Customer Happiness Centers The iOS and Android versions of the Sanad Communication App.
5. What paperwork is needed to submit the application?
Usually, applicants require: A copy of your passport A valid visa to visit the UAE Evidence of disability (national disability card or medical certificate from home country) A recent image Checking the CDA website for updates is advised because requirements may differ slightly.
6. What is the estimated time of arrival for the card?
After successful document verification, applicants can typically anticipate receiving their Sanad Tourist Card, either digitally or physically, within a few working days, though processing times may vary.
7. What are the advantages of the Sanad Tourist Card?
The card provides: Free entry to parks and attractions in Dubai, discounted public transportation, absence of Salik tolls, priority services at hospitals, supermarkets, airports, and government offices and special provisions in training and educational establishments
8. Is it possible to use the Sanad Tourist Card at airports in Dubai?
In order to ensure a quicker and more seamless airport experience, cardholders are granted priority check-in and boarding at Dubai World Central (DWC) and Dubai International Airport (DXB).
9. Do I Need a Medical Exam to Get a Sanad Card?
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.
10. Is the card valid for additional visits or is it renewable?
Yes, a medical report outlining the applicant’s disability is required for all Sanad Card applicants. A diagnostic organization authorized by the Emirate of Dubai’s Medical Committee must provide this report.
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