A health card in UAE gives residents access to government hospitals, clinics, and public health centers across the country. Whether you need a routine check-up, emergency treatment, vaccinations for your child, or specialist care, having a health card in UAE can make the entire experience smoother and less stressful. Even if you already have health insurance in UAE, a health card is still required for treatment at public healthcare facilities.
Here, we have put together a clear guide that explains how to get health card in UAE, eligibility for health card in the UAE, what documents you need, how much it costs, and UAE health card benefits.
Too Long; Didn’t Read (TL;DR)
- A health card in UAE allows residents to access public hospitals and clinics at discounted rates (20-40%).
- Some of the main UAE health card benefits include lower consultation fees, affordable diagnostic tests, access to vaccination programs, and emergency treatment at government facilities.
- The eligibility for a health card in the UAE includes UAE citizens, GCC nationals, and residents holding a valid residence visa.
- Even if you already have health insurance in UAE, a health card is still useful and often required for public healthcare services.
- The application process is simple and can be completed online or in person. Most applications are processed within a few working days.
- Fees start from AED 50 for citizens and AED 115 for expatriates.
What is a Health Card in UAE?
A health card is an official document issued by the Emirates Health Services (EHS). It allows residents to use government-run hospitals and public clinics at reduced rates. This system was designed to make healthcare affordable and accessible for everyone. With a valid health card in UAE, patients receive subsidised consultations, diagnostics, treatments, and medicines at EHS-operated facilities across the country.
The health card also plays an important role within the public healthcare framework, which is overseen by Emirates Health Services (EHS). To understand how public hospitals and clinics operate, it helps to read our detailed guide on understanding EHS, which explains how healthcare services are organized and delivered across different emirates.
Who Needs a Health card in UAE?
In general, anyone living in the UAE who may need public healthcare services should apply for a health card. This includes:
- UAE citizens
- GCC nationals
- Expatriate residents
- Children and newborn babies
- Domestic workers
- Sponsored dependents
Even people who already have health insurance for expats in UAE can apply for a health card, simply because government healthcare services are usually more affordable and widely available.
Eligibility for Health Card in the UAE
The eligibility for health card in the UAE includes:
- UAE citizens
- GCC citizens
- UAE residents with valid residence visas
Special Categories: People of Determination (PoD)
Applicants under the People of Determination category must provide:
- Medical report (issued within the past 3 months from a government hospital)
- Emirates ID
- Passport copy
How to Get a Health Card in UAE?
The application process is designed to be simple and user-friendly. Most residents choose to apply online, but in-person applications are also available at authorized healthcare centers.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here is the simplest explanation of how to get health card in UAE:
- Visit the official EHS website
- Click Patient Services → Issue of a Health Card → Start Now
- Log in using UAE Pass
- Select your healthcare category
- Choose New Application
- Scan or manually enter Emirates ID details
- Review your application
- Pay the service fee
- Receive confirmation via SMS
Once approved, the health card is automatically linked to your Emirates ID and becomes active immediately, where you can also check health insurance online for maximum protection.
Required Documents
Before starting your application and the steps for how to get health card in UAE, prepare the following:
- Emirates ID (or application receipt)
- Residence visa copy
- Passport copy
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Proof of address (if requested)
- Birth certificate for newborns
Having everything ready beforehand will help you complete the process faster.
Service Completion Duration
| Application Method | Estimated Time |
| Online | 1–3 working days |
| In-person | Same day to 2 working days |
Processing is usually quick, although delays may happen during busy periods.
Service Fees
Fees depend on your visa category and emirate. Below is a general idea of what to expect:
| Category | Cost |
| UAE citizens | AED 50 |
| People of Determination | AED 50 |
| Expat residents | AED 100 + AED 15 application fee |
Conditions & Requirements
When applying, you must ensure eligibility for health card in the UAE. Requirements include:
- A valid residence visa is mandatory.
- Emirates ID registration is required.
- Documents must be accurate and up to date.
- Fees are non-refundable.
- Renewal must be done before expiry to avoid service disruption.
UAE Health Card Benefits
Some of the most important UAE health card benefits include:
- 20% discount on EHS healthcare services
- Access to public hospitals and clinics
- Affordable diagnostic testing
- Vaccination programs
- Emergency care
- Free services for People of Determination
These UAE health card benefits make healthcare far more affordable for families, workers, and long-term residents. Keep in mind, the benefits of the Essential Benefits Plan is a different system than the e-health cards.
Health Card and Health Insurance in UAE: How Do They Work Together?
Many residents already have health insurance in UAE, either through their employer or a private policy. So, do you still need a health card?
In short, yes. While health insurance in UAE like the Essential Benefits Plan gives you access to private hospitals and clinics, the health card allows treatment at public healthcare facilities, which often offer lower prices for consultations, tests, and medications.
| Health Card | Health Insurance |
| Public hospitals and clinics | Mostly private hospitals |
| Lower treatment costs | Wider hospital network |
| Government-regulated | Policy-based coverage |
| Essential healthcare services | Advanced treatments and surgeries |
Conclusion
Getting a health card in UAE is a simple step that can make everyday healthcare far easier and more affordable. It gives residents reliable access to government hospitals and clinics, reduces treatment costs, and ensures that medical care is available when it is needed most.
Even if you already have health insurance in UAE, holding a health card offers added flexibility and peace of mind. By following the steps outlined above, you can complete the application process smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays.
Frequently Answered Questions
1. Should I wait for a physical card after applying for a health card?
No, there is no need to wait for a physical card. Once your application is approved, a digital health card in UAE is issued almost immediately. This digital version can be used at government hospitals and clinics, and it works exactly the same way as a physical card.
2. How long is a health card valid for?
In most cases, a health card in UAE is valid for one year from the date of issue. After that, it needs to be renewed to avoid interruptions in access to public healthcare services. Renewing early is always recommended, especially if you or your family members rely regularly on government clinics or hospitals.
3. Is it mandatory to have a health card for babies as well as adults?
Yes, it is mandatory. Babies, children, and adults all need a valid health card to access public healthcare facilities. Many parents apply for a health card immediately after their child receives a residence visa, especially since vaccinations and routine pediatric check-ups are mainly handled through government clinics.
4. Do I need a health card if I already have health insurance?
Yes, even if you already have health insurance in UAE, having a health card is still highly recommended. Health insurance mainly covers treatment at private hospitals and clinics, while a health card is required for services at public hospitals.
5. How much is it to get a health card in UAE?
The cost of getting a health card in UAE usually ranges between AED 100 and AED 500, depending on your visa type, age, and emirate of residence. Children and domestic workers often pay lower fees, while adult residents typically fall into the higher price range.
6. How can I renew my health card?
Renewing your health card in UAE is easy and can be done online through the official health authority platforms. You simply log in, confirm or update your personal details, upload any required documents, and pay the renewal fee. Once approved, your renewed digital health card becomes active almost immediately.
