Living in the UAE is exciting, but the pressures of daily life make reliable, affordable healthcare essential. The Emirates Health Services (EHS) health card gives UAE residents and citizens access to a wide range of medical services at reduced cost across the country's public health network. For People of Determination (PoD), those services are available free of charge.
Who Is Eligible for the UAE Health Card?
Anyone living in or holding citizenship of the UAE can apply — including UAE citizens, GCC nationals, and UAE residents. People of Determination are also eligible and receive free access to EHS healthcare services.
Required Documents
The documents you need vary by applicant category:
UAE citizens: Emirates ID and a photocopy of the Family Book.
GCC citizens and UAE residents: A passport-sized photograph.
People of Determination: A medical report from a government healthcare facility (no older than three months), plus Emirates ID and passport.
Health Card Fees
- UAE citizens: AED 50 - People of Determination: AED 50 - Expatriates: AED 100 (card) + AED 15 (EHS application form)
How to Apply Online via ehs.gov.ae
1. Visit ehs.gov.ae and navigate to: Patient Services > Issue of a Health Card > Start Now 2. Log in using UAE Pass — authentication is completed through the UAE Pass app on your phone 3. Select your healthcare category (UAE National, GCC National, Expatriate, or People of Determination) 4. Provide your Emirates ID details 5. Complete the payment process
How to Apply via the EHS Mobile App
1. Log in with UAE Pass 2. Tap Services and select Issue of Health Card 3. Choose your applicant category and proceed through the application 4. Complete payment
Card Validity
- UAE and GCC nationals: Five years - UAE residents: One year
Processing Time
For most applicants, the card is linked to your Emirates ID on the spot as soon as payment is confirmed. People of Determination may experience an activation period of 7 to 30 days after registration.
Where the Card Is Accepted
The EHS health card is valid at all Emirates Health Services-operated facilities across the UAE, including public health centres and hospitals.
With a straightforward online process and low fees, getting your UAE health card is one of the simplest steps you can take to secure affordable access to quality medical care.
