United Arab Emirates hubs

Hessa

Retiree

United Arab EmiratesArabic (العربية)د.إ AED

Hessa is a proud Emirati retiree living in the UAE, navigating the golden years with a focus on health, family, and community benefits. This hub captures the essential national services, pension structures, and senior citizen privileges she relies on daily.

My Pension and Financial Security

Ensuring my monthly income and long-term financial stability are secure.

GPSSA Pension Scheme

الهيئة العامة للمعاشات والتأمينات الاجتماعية

national · General Pension and Social Security Authority

Who qualifies
Retired UAE nationals who completed the required service years.
What you get
Monthly pension payments based on salary and service duration.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of retirement and bank details; processed via employer.
Common gotcha
Pension amounts are calculated based on the average salary of the last 3 years.

Thukher Social Card

بطاقة ذخر

national · Community Development Authority

Who qualifies
Emirati citizens aged 60 and above.
What you get
Discounts on various government and private sector services.
What it actually costs you
Emirates ID and passport photo; free to apply.
Common gotcha
Many private retailers offer discounts but you must ask for them explicitly.

Sheikh Zayed Housing Programme

برنامج الشيخ زايد للإسكان

national · Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure

Who qualifies
Retired nationals needing housing support or maintenance grants.
What you get
Financial grants or interest-free loans for home construction or repair.
What it actually costs you
Extensive property documentation and proof of income.
Common gotcha
High demand means waiting lists for new construction grants.

Ministry Social Aid

المساعدات الاجتماعية

national · Ministry of Community Development

Who qualifies
Retired citizens with limited income or specific financial needs.
What you get
Monthly financial assistance to cover basic living expenses.
What it actually costs you
Proof of financial status and household income.
Common gotcha
Must renew eligibility status annually.

Etihad Credit Bureau Report

اتحاد ائتمان

national · Etihad Credit Bureau

Who qualifies
Any citizen with a bank account or credit history.
What you get
Access to personal credit reports to monitor financial health.
What it actually costs you
Small fee per report; requires Emirates ID.
Common gotcha
It is vital to check this before applying for any new loans.

Zakat Fund Assistance

صندوق الزكاة

national · Zakat Fund

Who qualifies
Low-income retirees meeting specific Sharia criteria.
What you get
One-time or recurring financial support.
What it actually costs you
Application form and proof of financial hardship.
Common gotcha
Strict verification process to ensure eligibility.

Staying Healthy and Active

Accessing the best care and staying mobile as I age.

Thiqa Health Insurance

برنامج ثقة

national · Daman (National Health Insurance Company)

Who qualifies
Emirati nationals.
What you get
Comprehensive health coverage at private and public facilities.
What it actually costs you
Emirates ID; no premiums for citizens.
Common gotcha
Check the provider network before booking appointments.

SEHA Public Health Services

شركة صحة

national · Abu Dhabi Health Services Company

Who qualifies
All citizens.
What you get
Access to public hospitals and specialized clinics.
What it actually costs you
Emirates ID and Thiqa card.
Common gotcha
Referrals are often required for specialized care.

Geriatric Home Care

الرعاية المنزلية لكبار السن

national · Ministry of Health and Prevention

Who qualifies
Seniors with mobility issues or chronic conditions.
What you get
Medical checkups and nursing care at home.
What it actually costs you
Medical report and physician referral.
Common gotcha
Availability varies by region; requires advance booking.

Pharmacy Home Delivery

توصيل الأدوية

national · Ministry of Health and Prevention

Who qualifies
Patients with chronic diseases registered in the system.
What you get
Delivery of recurring prescriptions to your home.
What it actually costs you
Valid prescription and registered Emirates ID.
Common gotcha
Must ensure the prescription is active in the digital system.

National Vaccination Program

برنامج التطعيم الوطني

national · Ministry of Health and Prevention

Who qualifies
All citizens, including seniors.
What you get
Free seasonal flu shots and other necessary vaccines.
What it actually costs you
Emirates ID; walk-in or appointment.
Common gotcha
Check local health authority social media for pop-up centers.

Estijaba Mental Health

استجابة

national · Department of Health

Who qualifies
Any citizen needing psychological support.
What you get
Counseling and mental health consultations.
What it actually costs you
Free via hotline or referral.
Common gotcha
Many people forget these services are confidential.

My Digital Life

Managing my documents and government interactions from home.

UAE PASS

هوية الإمارات الرقمية

national · Digital Dubai / TDRA

Who qualifies
All citizens with an Emirates ID.
What you get
Single sign-on access to all government services.
What it actually costs you
Biometric verification at a kiosk.
Common gotcha
Keep your phone number updated in the system.

Emirates ID Renewal

تجديد بطاقة الهوية

national · Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship

Who qualifies
All citizens.
What you get
Legal identification for all official transactions.
What it actually costs you
Renewal fee; biometric scan.
Common gotcha
Renew at least 30 days before expiry to avoid fines.

TAMM Services

تم

national · Abu Dhabi Government

Who qualifies
All residents and citizens.
What you get
Unified portal for utilities, fines, and permits.
What it actually costs you
UAE PASS login.
Common gotcha
Most services are now paperless; don't print documents unless asked.

MOI App Services

تطبيق وزارة الداخلية

national · Ministry of Interior

Who qualifies
All citizens.
What you get
Vehicle registration, fine payments, and travel documents.
What it actually costs you
App download and UAE PASS.
Common gotcha
Check for traffic fine discounts during national holidays.

Digital Notary Services

كاتب العدل الرقمي

national · Ministry of Justice

Who qualifies
All citizens.
What you get
Notarizing documents via video call.
What it actually costs you
Service fee; video verification.
Common gotcha
Ensure you have a stable internet connection for the call.

e-Dirham Payment System

الدرهم الإلكتروني

national · Ministry of Finance

Who qualifies
All citizens.
What you get
Digital payment method for government fees.
What it actually costs you
Card purchase or digital wallet setup.
Common gotcha
Some government counters only accept this payment method.

Leisure and Community

Staying connected with friends and enjoying my free time.

Senior Citizen Clubs

نوادي كبار المواطنين

national · Community Development Authority

Who qualifies
Citizens aged 60+.
What you get
Social events, workshops, and wellness activities.
What it actually costs you
Registration with your Emirates ID.
Common gotcha
These are great places to meet peers; check local schedules.

National Library Membership

المكتبة الوطنية

national · Department of Culture and Tourism

Who qualifies
All citizens.
What you get
Free access to books, digital archives, and quiet spaces.
What it actually costs you
Emirates ID for registration.
Common gotcha
Many libraries offer home delivery of books.

Hajj Registration

تسجيل الحج

national · General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments

Who qualifies
Citizens meeting Hajj criteria.
What you get
Organized and facilitated Hajj pilgrimage.
What it actually costs you
Application fee and medical clearance.
Common gotcha
Registration opens early; monitor official announcements.

Cultural Site Discounts

خصومات المتاحف

national · Various Cultural Departments

Who qualifies
Seniors with Emirates ID.
What you get
Free or discounted entry to national museums.
What it actually costs you
Present ID at the ticket counter.
Common gotcha
Always carry your ID to prove age for discounts.

Public Park Access

الحدائق العامة

national · Municipalities

Who qualifies
All citizens.
What you get
Free access to well-maintained public parks.
What it actually costs you
None.
Common gotcha
Some parks have specific 'family days' or hours.

Volunteers.ae

منصة متطوعين

national · Ministry of Community Development

Who qualifies
Any citizen looking to give back.
What you get
Opportunities to mentor or assist in community projects.
What it actually costs you
Registration profile.
Common gotcha
You can filter for 'senior-friendly' volunteer roles.

State-level schemes

7states & territories — open one to see what it offers.

Ajmanعجمان

Ajman offers a more affordable, community-focused lifestyle for retirees compared to the larger emirates, with specific local support for elderly residents and health services.

Staying healthy and active

Ajman Elderly Care Initiative

مبادرة رعاية كبار السن في عجمان

state · Ajman Department of Community Development

Who qualifies
Residents aged 60 and above living in Ajman.
What you get
Home health visits, physiotherapy sessions, and social engagement activities.
What it actually costs you
Free; requires Emirates ID and proof of residence in Ajman.
Common gotcha
The service is heavily subscribed; register early for home visit slots.

Ajman Specialized Medical Center Discounts

state · Ajman Health Authority

Who qualifies
Senior citizens and residents with valid Ajman residency.
What you get
Subsidized diagnostic tests and specialized geriatric consultations.
What it actually costs you
Standard co-pay after insurance; requires local medical referral.
Common gotcha
Ensure your insurance network includes these specific local centers.

Getting out and about

Ajman Senior Citizen Park Access

municipal · Ajman Municipality

Who qualifies
Retirees aged 60+ residing in Ajman.
What you get
Priority access to shaded walking tracks and designated seating areas in public parks.
What it actually costs you
Free; just show your Emirates ID at the gate.
Common gotcha
Some parks have specific 'senior hours' in the early morning to avoid heat.

Ajman Cultural Center Senior Membership

state · Ajman Department of Tourism and Culture

Who qualifies
All retirees residing in the emirate.
What you get
Free access to local exhibitions, heritage workshops, and community events.
What it actually costs you
Free registration; requires passport-sized photo.
Common gotcha
Events are often announced via social media rather than mail.

Managing household costs

Ajman Sewerage Senior Discount

state · Ajman Sewerage (ASPCL)

Who qualifies
Senior citizens registered as the primary utility account holder.
What you get
Reduced service fees on monthly sewerage bills.
What it actually costs you
Application form submission; requires utility bill and Emirates ID.
Common gotcha
Must be renewed annually to maintain the discount status.

Ajman Waste Management Fee Exemption

municipal · Ajman Municipality

Who qualifies
Low-income retirees residing in Ajman.
What you get
Waiver of annual municipal waste collection fees.
What it actually costs you
Proof of income/pension status required.
Common gotcha
Often overlooked; you must explicitly apply for the waiver at the municipality office.
Abu Dhabiأبو ظبي

Abu Dhabi offers a unique social safety net for retirees through the Thiqah program and specialized housing support that ensures dignity in one's golden years.

Staying healthy without the worry

Thiqah Healthcare Program

برنامج ثقة

state · Department of Health - Abu Dhabi

Who qualifies
UAE Nationals aged 60 and above living in Abu Dhabi.
What you get
Full coverage for medical services at premium private and public healthcare facilities with minimal co-payments.
What it actually costs you
Free to enroll; requires Emirates ID and proof of residency.
Common gotcha
It only covers specific network providers; always check if your doctor is in the Thiqah network before booking.

Abu Dhabi Home Healthcare Services

state · Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA)

Who qualifies
Elderly residents with mobility issues or chronic conditions requiring long-term care.
What you get
Regular visits from nurses, physiotherapists, and doctors at your home.
What it actually costs you
Requires a referral from a government hospital consultant.
Common gotcha
Waiting lists can be long; ensure your medical records are updated at a SEHA facility.

Senior Citizen Priority Access

state · Abu Dhabi Government

Who qualifies
All residents aged 60+ in Abu Dhabi.
What you get
Fast-track service lanes at all government service centers and hospitals.
What it actually costs you
Just show your Emirates ID at the reception desk.
Common gotcha
Staff might not offer it automatically; you must ask for the senior citizen priority lane.

Comfortable living and support

Abu Dhabi Housing Authority Senior Support

هيئة أبوظبي للإسكان

state · Abu Dhabi Housing Authority

Who qualifies
Retired UAE nationals in Abu Dhabi needing home maintenance or modifications for accessibility.
What you get
Grants or low-interest loans for home repairs and accessibility upgrades (ramps, bathroom rails).
What it actually costs you
Requires property ownership documents and proof of retirement status.
Common gotcha
The application process is strictly digital; you may need help from a family member to navigate the portal.

Fazaa Senior Discount Card

فزعة

state · Ministry of Interior / Abu Dhabi Social Support

Who qualifies
Retired citizens and residents registered under specific social support schemes.
What you get
Significant discounts on groceries, utilities, and retail services across Abu Dhabi.
What it actually costs you
Annual membership fee; requires valid Emirates ID.
Common gotcha
Not all retailers accept it; always look for the Fazaa sticker at the checkout.
Dubaiدبي

Dubai offers a unique 'Retire in Dubai' program that provides long-term residency visas for retirees, alongside world-class healthcare and senior-specific social services.

Staying here for the long haul

Retire in Dubai Program

برنامج التقاعد في دبي

state · Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism

Who qualifies
Individuals over 55 with a monthly income of AED 20,000 or savings of AED 1 million.
What you get
A renewable 5-year residency visa for the retiree and their spouse.
What it actually costs you
Application fees vary; requires proof of income/savings and health insurance.
Common gotcha
The visa is tied to your financial status; if your income drops below the threshold, renewal may be denied.

Thukher Card

بطاقة ذخر

state · Community Development Authority (CDA)

Who qualifies
UAE Nationals residing in Dubai aged 60 and above.
What you get
Priority services in government departments and discounts on various public and private services.
What it actually costs you
Free; requires Emirates ID and proof of age.
Common gotcha
Only available for UAE nationals, not expatriate retirees.

Keeping healthy and active

SAADA Health Insurance

برنامج سعادة

state · Dubai Health Authority

Who qualifies
UAE Nationals residing in Dubai who do not have other government-funded health insurance.
What you get
Comprehensive health coverage at private and public healthcare providers in Dubai.
What it actually costs you
Fully government-funded; requires Emirates ID registration.
Common gotcha
Coverage is limited to specific networks; always check if your clinic is included.

CDA Home Care Services

خدمات الرعاية المنزلية

state · Community Development Authority

Who qualifies
Senior citizens in Dubai with limited mobility or chronic health conditions.
What you get
Regular home visits by medical and social support staff.
What it actually costs you
Free; requires medical assessment and social worker referral.
Common gotcha
High demand means there is often a waiting list for new enrollments.
Fujairahالفجيرة

Fujairah offers a unique, quieter pace of life for retirees with specific local support for senior citizens through the Fujairah Social Development Department and local municipal initiatives.

Support for my golden years

Fujairah Senior Citizen Card

بطاقة كبار المواطنين

state · Fujairah Social Development Department

Who qualifies
Residents of Fujairah aged 60 and above.
What you get
Priority service at government offices, discounts at local pharmacies, and free home-care assessment visits.
What it actually costs you
Free; requires Emirates ID and proof of residency in the emirate.
Common gotcha
It is not automatically issued; you must visit the Social Development office to apply.

Fujairah Home Health Care Program

برنامج الرعاية الصحية المنزلية

state · Fujairah Hospital Authority

Who qualifies
Elderly residents with limited mobility or chronic conditions.
What you get
Monthly nurse visits for blood pressure checks, medication management, and basic health monitoring.
What it actually costs you
Free; requires a referral from a local GP at a Fujairah public clinic.
Common gotcha
Waitlists can be long; ensure your medical records are updated at the nearest primary health center.

Staying active in the city

Fujairah Heritage Village Senior Access

دخول قرية الفجيرة التراثية

state · Fujairah Tourism and Antiquities Authority

Who qualifies
All seniors aged 60+ residing in Fujairah.
What you get
Free lifetime entry to the Heritage Village and local museums.
What it actually costs you
Free; just show your Emirates ID at the gate.
Common gotcha
Does not include special event tickets or workshops.

Fujairah Community Center Senior Discount

خصم مركز الفجيرة المجتمعي

state · Fujairah Municipality

Who qualifies
Residents aged 60+.
What you get
50% discount on annual membership fees for public community halls and social clubs.
What it actually costs you
Requires a copy of your tenancy contract in Fujairah.
Common gotcha
The discount is only applicable at municipality-run centers, not private gyms.
Ras Al Khaimahرأس الخيمة

Ras Al Khaimah offers a unique, quieter pace of life for retirees with specific local government support for elderly citizens and residents through the RAK Government's social services.

Staying healthy and active

RAK Elderly Care Services

خدمات رعاية المسنين في رأس الخيمة

state · RAK Department of Social Services

Who qualifies
Citizens and long-term residents over 60 years of age.
What you get
Home nursing visits, physiotherapy, and social engagement activities.
What it actually costs you
Free; requires a medical report and Emirates ID.
Common gotcha
Services are prioritized for those living alone or with limited family support.

Saqr Hospital Senior Priority Lane

مسار كبار السن في مستشفى صقر

state · RAK Health Authority

Who qualifies
Residents aged 65+.
What you get
Fast-track access to outpatient clinics and reduced waiting times.
What it actually costs you
Free; just present your Emirates ID at the reception desk.
Common gotcha
You must explicitly ask for the 'Senior Priority' lane at the registration counter.

Community perks and discounts

RAK Senior Citizen Discount Card

بطاقة خصم كبار السن

state · RAK Government

Who qualifies
UAE Nationals residing in RAK aged 60+.
What you get
Discounts on utilities, private medical services, and select local retail partners.
What it actually costs you
Free; requires application at the RAK Government service center.
Common gotcha
Many private retailers forget to apply the discount unless you show the card before billing.

RAK Public Parks Senior Access

دخول حدائق رأس الخيمة

state · RAK Municipality

Who qualifies
All residents aged 60+.
What you get
Unlimited access to walking tracks and green spaces.
What it actually costs you
Free entry to all municipality-managed parks.
Common gotcha
Some private beach clubs within parks may still charge fees; check if the area is public.

RAK National Museum Senior Entry

دخول متحف رأس الخيمة الوطني

state · RAK Department of Antiquities and Museums

Who qualifies
Seniors aged 60+.
What you get
Free entry to the National Museum and historical sites.
What it actually costs you
Free; just show your Emirates ID at the gate.
Common gotcha
Does not include guided tour fees if you choose to hire a private guide.
Sharjahالشارقة

Sharjah offers a unique social safety net for retirees through the Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation and specific cultural discounts that make life more affordable for seniors.

Support for my golden years

Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation (SSEF) Services

مؤسسة التمكين الاجتماعي

state · Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation

Who qualifies
Sharjah residents who are elderly or have limited social support.
What you get
Access to social rehabilitation, home care visits, and community integration programs.
What it actually costs you
Free; requires proof of residency and a social assessment interview.
Common gotcha
It is not a direct cash grant; it is focused on social and psychological support services.

Sharjah Senior Services Program (Social Services Department)

برنامج كبار السن

state · Sharjah Social Services Department

Who qualifies
Citizens and long-term residents aged 60+ in Sharjah.
What you get
Mobile medical clinics, home nursing, and social companionship.
What it actually costs you
Free; requires Emirates ID and a medical report.
Common gotcha
You must register specifically with the SSSD to receive the home visit schedule.

Making life easier and cheaper

Sharjah Senior Citizen Discount Card

بطاقة مسن

state · Sharjah Social Services Department

Who qualifies
Sharjah residents aged 60 and above.
What you get
Discounts on public transport, utility bill assistance, and select private pharmacies.
What it actually costs you
Free; application via the SSSD portal or office.
Common gotcha
Many private retailers are unaware of the card; always ask if they participate before paying.

Mowasalat Senior Concession

state · Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority

Who qualifies
Seniors aged 60+ residing in Sharjah.
What you get
Reduced fares on public bus routes across the city.
What it actually costs you
Requires a Sayer card registration with proof of age.
Common gotcha
The discount is only applied if you use the registered Sayer card; cash fares are full price.
Umm Al Quwainأم القيوين

Umm Al Quwain offers a quieter pace of life for retirees, with specific local support for housing maintenance and community-based social welfare services.

Staying connected and cared for

Umm Al Quwain Social Welfare Grant

منحة أم القيوين للرعاية الاجتماعية

state · Umm Al Quwain Social Services Department

Who qualifies
Retired residents with limited pension income living in the emirate.
What you get
Monthly financial assistance and seasonal food baskets.
What it actually costs you
Requires proof of residency, pension statement, and family book; processed in 30 days.
Common gotcha
Must renew eligibility status every 12 months.

Umm Al Quwain Senior Citizens Council

مجلس كبار المواطنين بأم القيوين

state · Umm Al Quwain Government

Who qualifies
All retirees residing in Umm Al Quwain.
What you get
Access to social events, health workshops, and recreational facilities.
What it actually costs you
Free membership; requires Emirates ID.
Common gotcha
Events are often announced via local community WhatsApp groups rather than a central website.

Umm Al Quwain Housing Maintenance Support

مبادرة صيانة المساكن بأم القيوين

state · Umm Al Quwain Municipality

Who qualifies
Retirees owning older homes in the emirate.
What you get
Subsidized or free basic home repairs including electrical and plumbing.
What it actually costs you
Application through the municipality office; requires property deed.
Common gotcha
Limited to essential repairs only, not aesthetic renovations.

Umm Al Quwain Volunteer Engagement

برنامج أم القيوين للتطوع

state · Umm Al Quwain Youth and Community Center

Who qualifies
Retirees looking to mentor or volunteer in local schools.
What you get
Recognition awards and community engagement opportunities.
What it actually costs you
Background check and interview; no cost.
Common gotcha
Requires basic proficiency in Arabic for most school-based roles.

Keeping healthy in the emirate

Umm Al Quwain Mobile Health Service

العيادة المتنقلة بأم القيوين

state · Ministry of Health and Prevention (UQ Branch)

Who qualifies
Retirees with mobility issues living in remote areas of the emirate.
What you get
Routine checkups, blood pressure monitoring, and prescription delivery.
What it actually costs you
Scheduled via phone call; free of charge.
Common gotcha
Service frequency depends on the specific neighborhood schedule.

Umm Al Quwain Wellness Priority Card

بطاقة أولوية

state · Umm Al Quwain Hospital

Who qualifies
Residents over 60 years of age.
What you get
Priority lanes at local clinics and pharmacy counters.
What it actually costs you
Issued at the hospital reception; requires Emirates ID.
Common gotcha
Must carry the physical card to claim priority.

Umm Al Quwain Senior Fitness Access

مرافق اللياقة البدنية لكبار السن

state · Umm Al Quwain Municipality

Who qualifies
All retirees in the emirate.
What you get
Free access to walking tracks and senior-friendly exercise equipment in public parks.
What it actually costs you
None.
Common gotcha
Best used during early morning or late evening hours to avoid heat.

Umm Al Quwain Home Care Referral

خدمات الرعاية المنزلية بأم القيوين

state · Umm Al Quwain Medical District

Who qualifies
Retirees requiring post-hospitalization care.
What you get
Referral to state-supported home nursing services.
What it actually costs you
Requires doctor's recommendation; paperwork takes 3-5 days.
Common gotcha
Does not cover long-term live-in care, only short-term recovery support.