Living in the UAE means having access to the finest healthcare facilities in the nation. Whether you're a UAE native, an expat resident, or a GCC national, having your healthcare needs amply covered is a matter of utmost importance, and that's precisely where the health card UAE comes into play.
The UAE health card, offered by Emirates Health Services (EHS), provides access to a vast network of government medical providers around the nation. It also reduces the cost of medical care by offering reduced fees in public hospitals and clinics. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of how this health card operates, who qualifies, how to get one, and what you should expect.
What is the UAE Health Card?
The health card UAE is a government-issued official identity that connects you with EHS healthcare centers. It is an extra or substitute private health insurance and offers discounts on consultations, treatments, and diagnostics at government-approved hospitals and clinics.
It also gives people of Determination (PoD) access to all EHS health cards, further emphasizing the country's integrated healthcare policy.
Who Can Apply?
You are eligible for a UAE health card if you fall within any of the following categories:
- UAE Citizens
- GCC Nationals
- UAE Residents
- People of Determination (PoD)
There is documentation needed for each, but the process as a whole is extremely streamlined.
What Documents Do I Need?
This is what you need based on your category:
- UAE Citizens - Emirates ID and Family Book copy
- GCC Nationals - valid Emirates ID
- UAE Residents - valid Emirates ID
- People of Determination - Medical report (recently issued in the last 3 months) and passport
Make sure your documents are up-to-date before applying.
How to Apply for a UAE Health Card in Dubai
It is easy to apply and can be done online via the EHS portal, or through the EHS mobile app.
Online Application Steps:
- Go to ehs.gov.ae
- Go to 'Patient Services' > "Issue of a Health Card
- Click 'Start Now' and use your UAE Pass to log in
- Confirm login on your mobile phone
- Select whether you're applying for yourself or someone else
- Select the category - UAE Citizen, GCC National, Expat, or PoD
- Scan or type your Emirates ID
- Finish your health centre selection
- Proceed to payment
After payment, your electronic health card UAE is automatically linked to your Emirates ID.
Through the Mobile App:
- Download and open the EHS app
- Log in through UAE Pass
- Click 'Services' > 'Issue of a Health Card'
- Select category and application type
- Verify details, pay, and done
Fees and Validity:
The fees differ according to your status:
- A UAE Citizen - AED 50
- A GCC National - AED 50
- An expatriate - AED 100 + AED 15 for form processing
- A Person of Determination - AED 50
These are the numbers available at the time of writing this blog.
Validity:
- 5 years for UAE and GCC nationals
- 1 year for expatriates
Processing Time:
- Normal applicants - Instant activation after payment
- PoD applicants - 7 to 30 days
Once approved, you will receive an SMS message, and the card is live from then onwards.
Where Can You Use the Health Card?
The Dubai Health Card can be used only in government facilities owned and operated by EHS. They are:
- Dubai Public Health Centre
- Alriffa Health Centre (Sharjah)
- Masafi Hospital (Fujairah)
- Falaj Al Muallah Physiotherapy Centre (Umm Al Quwain)
- Physiotherapy & Sports Medicine Centre (Ras Al Khaimah)
- Al Nuaimiya Medical Centre (Ajman)
- Genetic & Neonatal Screening Diagnostic Centre (Abu Dhabi)
To find the closest centre, visit the EHS website and select 'Health Care Facilities' under the Services menu.
Why Should You Get a Health Card UAE?
Here are the benefits of having an EHS health card:
Affordable Access: Get up to 20% off at government hospitals and clinics.
Backup for Private Insurance: Offers recourse when private insurance does not cover certain procedures.
Fast & Easy Application: Convenient and secure using UAE Pass.
Inclusive Access: Best for People of Determination who appreciate free services.
Government Reliability: Linked directly to your Emirates ID for easy verification and quick access to services.
Healthcare is not a necessity, it's peace of mind. The UAE Health Card provides you and your loved ones with access to good, affordable healthcare no matter where you are in the Emirates. With or without private insurance, this card gives you a feeling of security and convenience.
So whether you are asking what is health card in UAE, or wondering how to apply for health card in Dubai, the answer is simple, go to ehs.gov.ae or get the EHS app and apply today to be healthy and protected!
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