Dubai is a paradise for tourists with accessible attractions, shopping malls, and medical facilities. To enhance the travel experience for tourists with limited mobility, Dubai has introduced the Sanad Tourist Card. The Community Development Authority (CDA) launched the Sanad tourist card as the first of its kind globally. This card offers a range of benefits, ensuring that people of determination can explore the city with greater ease and comfort. The Sanad card offers free rides on the Dubai Metro, complimentary entry to top tourist attractions, exclusive parking permits, reduced taxi fares, and discounts throughout the city.
In this blog, we will review what the Sanad card is, who is eligible for it, and what the benefits of it are for tourists in Dubai, UAE.
What is Sanad Tourist Card?
Smart Sanad card launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Muhammad Bin Rashed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, is for assurance of access to benefits in Dubai. The main purpose of this card is to encourage independence among People of Determination by providing driving facilities.
Why the Sanad Tourist Card Matters for Travelers
Travel can be complex for tourists with limited mobility because of the transport costs. With Sanad Tourist Card, tourists with disabilities can experience reduced transport costs and improved accessibility. You can enjoy sightseeing more comfortably and stress-free when you get to pay half the cost of public transportation.
Who Can Use the Sanad Tourist Card
Eligibility Criteria for Tourists and Visitors
- Tourists visiting Dubai with physical, sensory, intellectual, or learning disabilities
- UAE nationals and expatriates who live in Dubai with certified disabilities
- Visitors with a valid Dubai visit visa and supporting medical or disability documentation
Situations Where the Sanad Tourist Card Is Most Useful
- You can use Sanad card while traveling across the city using public transport
- While visiting tourist attractions and public venues
- When accessing discounted taxis and parking facilities
- During your stay in Dubai for extended tourism or medical visits
Documents Required to Apply
For UAE Nationals
- Emirates ID
- Medical report explaining the disability
- People of Determination Card
- Recent passport-size 4 × 5 cm photo
- Proof of residence in Dubai
For Expatriates
- Emirates ID
- Medical report explaining the disability
- People of Determination Card
- Recent passport-size 4 × 5 cm photo
- Proof of residence in Dubai
For Tourists
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months)
- Copy of Dubai-issued visit visa
- Recent passport-size 4 × 5 cm photo
- Medical report or disability card from home country
POD Card Benefits
- Cardholders can access designated parking areas free of cost, that make it easier to travel independently by private or rental vehicles.
- Tourists can enjoy 50% discount on taxi fares across participating services. It helps them move around the city with low transportation expenses.
- The card provides free access to Dubai’s public transports like metro and buses.
- Many popular tourist attractions offer discounted or complimentary entry for Sanad cardholders.
- Cardholders can benefit from special discounts at selected retail outlets.
Sanad Tourist Card Price and Validity
Sanad Tourist Card Pricing Options
The Sanad Card Dubai is issued free of charge to all eligible applicants. There are no application or issuance fees.
Validity Period and Usage Limits
The Sanad card is valid for two months from the activation date for tourists. It allows visitors to enjoy the benefits during their stay.
What the Sanad Tourist Card Covers
Supported Transport Services
- Dubai Metro and public buses
- Discounted taxi services
- Parking benefits in designated locations
Included Attractions and Partner Locations
- Selected tourist attractions and entertainment venues
- Partner retail stores and service providers offer special discounts
How to Buy and Activate the Sanad Tourist Card
Where to Purchase the Sanad Tourist Card
You can apply through the Dubai Now App by using a UAE PASS account, the official government services platform.
Activation and First-Use Process
You need to submit the required documents like passport copy, visit visa, medical report or disability card, and a passport-size photo. Once approved, a digital card is issued within approximately 24 hours and becomes active upon first use.
How to Use the Sanad Tourist Card During Your Trip
Using the Card on Transport Services
Cardholders can present the digital or physical card when using metro stations, buses, taxis, or parking facilities to receive eligible benefits.
Using the Card at Attractions
At partner attractions and locations, you can access discounts, free entries, or priority services where available with the Sanad Tourist Card.
Things to Know Before Using
Usage Restrictions and Fair-Use Policies
Only the registered cardholder can enjoy benefits. You must use the card according to the partner organization’s policies and eligibility rules.
What Is Not Included in the Sanad Tourist Card
Premium services, private tours, or non-partner attractions are not covered with the Sanad card.
Accessibility and Visitor Support Services
Accessibility Features for Tourists with Disabilities
To support travelers with limited mobility, Dubai offers accessible transport networks, wheelchair-friendly public facilities, and inclusive tourism infrastructure.
Customer Support and Help Channels
You can receive assistance through the Dubai Now App, CDA support centers, and official tourism help desks across the city.
FAQs
Can I upgrade or extend my Sanad Tourist Card?
Tourist Sanad cards are valid for the approved duration. If you wish to extend them, you must reapply.
What happens if I lose my Sanad Tourist Card?
You can request a replacement through the issuing authority or retrieve the digital version via the Dubai Now App.
Does the Sanad Tourist Card start counting time immediately after purchase?
The validity period of Sanad Tourist card begins from the activation or first-use date, not the application submission date.
Can the Sanad Tourist Card be used by multiple people?
No. The card is issued to an individual and can only be used by the registered cardholder.
Conclusion
The Sanad Tourist Card is a free initiative that supports people of determination by making travel in Dubai more comfortable. With benefits such as free public transport, parking privileges, and service discounts, the card helps tourists enjoy greater independence. Overall, it reflects Dubai’s strong commitment to inclusive tourism and equal access for all. MobilityExpress stands with the Government of Dubai by offering top POD Taxis at an affordable rental cost for tourists. Whether you want to rent an accessible vehicle or convert your vehicle into a wheelchair accessible van, MobilityExpress is your best choice in Dubai.
