How to Get an Esaad Card for Expats: Complete Guide 2026

The Esaad Card is one of the most popular discount programs in the UAE. Managed and launched by Dubai Police, the card offers thousands of benefits on shopping, travel, entertainment, education, health services, and more.

For Expats, this card is a “money-saving machine,” offering discounts of up to 50% at top schools, hospitals, and luxury hotels. In recent years, Expats or foreigners have shown a great interest in getting the Esaad card, as it offers significant savings on daily expenses.

But one thing is that “Can expats apply for Esaad”? The answer is yes, but only if they belong to one of the approved and eligible categories (like Dubai residents with Golden Visas, government/semi‑government workers, retirees, People of Determination, or some limited‑income groups).

So, if you are an expat and wondering how to get this card, here are four ways you can qualify for it in 2026. This guide explains the eligibility criteria, application process, required documents, and where expats can use the card in 2026.

What is the Esaad Card?

The Esaad card is a special discount and loyalty program that was launched in 2017 for government employees. Today, the program offers over 17,000 exclusive offers in the UAE and more than 90 countries, including:

1. Shopping stores
2. Restaurants & food delivery
3. Hospitals, clinics & pharmacies
4. Education institutions
5. Travel, hotel bookings & airlines
6. Leisure, parks, gyms, and entertainment

Eligibility for Esaad Card for Expats

If you fall into any of these categories, you can apply for the Expat Esad program:

• Golden Visa Holders: This is an important category for expats. Most 5-year and 10-year Golden Visa holders in Dubai are eligible for the Esaad Card.
• Government & Semi-Government Employees: Expats working for federal or local government entities in Dubai (such as Dubai Police, RTA, DEWA).
• Partnered Private Companies: As you mentioned, these are employees of private companies that have a signed agreement with the Dubai Police.
• Retired Expats: Those who retired from the Dubai government or partnered private sectors (must be registered with GPSSA or have proof of service).
• People of Determination: Expats who possess a valid Sanad card are eligible for an Esaad card.
• First-Degree Relatives: The primary cardholder’s spouse, parents, and children are also eligible to avail of these benefits.

Note: Regular private-sector employees cannot apply directly unless their company is registered with Esaad.

Required Documents

Expats must prepare the following documents for the Application:

• Emirates ID
• Valid UAE Residence Visa
• Employment letter or salary certificate
• Passport copy (if requested)
• Employee number and company ID
• Proof that the employer is an Esaad partner

How Expats Can Apply for Esaad Card

Here is the simple process to apply for the Esaad card as an expat.

For Private Sector Employees

1. Confirm Eligibility: Check if your organization is listed as an official Esaad partner.
2. Check with HR: Ask your HR department if your company is an “Esaad Partner.”
3. HR Registration: If yes, they will collect your details and send them to the Dubai Police.
   • Your HR team or organization will upload the required documents to the Esaad portal.
4. Activation: You will receive an SMS. Go to the app, enter your Emirates ID, and activate your account.
5. Approval: Once approved, you will receive a physical ESAD card or a digital card in the ESAD mobile app.

For Golden Visa Holders (Online)

If you are a Golden Visa holder, you will automatically receive a notification, but if you don’t receive one, please follow these steps:

• Visit the Portal: Go to the official Esaad Website.
• Select Registration: Click on the “Register/SignUp” button and choose the “Golden Visa Card” category.
• Enter Details: Fill in your Emirates ID and mobile number.
• Upload Documents: You will need to upload a scan of your passport (including the Golden Visa page) and a digital photograph.
• Pay the Fee: From 2026, a small processing fee (approximately AED 150-200) may apply to multi-year memberships in some categories.
• Download the App: Once approved, your digital card will appear immediately in the Esaad app.

Step-by-Step: How to Activate Your Expat Esaad Card

If you fall into one of the eligible categories, you can follow these steps to activate your account.

1. Visit the Portal: Go to the official website at esaad.dubaipolice.gov.ae.
2. Check Registration: Click on the “Sign in” button and click on “Activate Membership.”
3. Enter Details: Enter your Emirates ID number, and click on Verify.
4. Verification: You will receive an OTP via SMS on your registered number. Tap on confirm.

Alternatively, you can activate your Esaad Account using the App. Simply install the app from the Google playstore or the Apple App Store. Enter your Emirate ID and Click on Verify.

• Otherwise, you can click on Sign Up with UAE PASS, and enter the required details such as Emirate ID, Email or Phone, and Password to log in.

How to Use the Esaad Card

Expats can take advantage of the Esaad discount in two ways:

1. Show the digital or physical card at partner stores
2. Redeem offers directly using the Esaad app

The card can be used across the UAE, including:

• Dubai
• Abu Dhabi
• Sharjah
• Ajman
• Ras Al Khaimah
• Fujairah
• Umm al Quwain

It also works internationally in selected partner countries.

Esaad Card Benefits for Expats

• Discounts on groceries and clothing
• Medical and hospital savings
• Reduced school and university fees
• Travel, hotel, and ticket discounts
• Special offers on car rental, insurance, banking, and more
• Dining deals across major restaurant chains

Top 5 Esaad Discounts for Expats 2026

Here are some of the top saving discounts that expats are currently enjoying:

Category	Typical Discount	Examples
Education	20% – 30% Off	School and University tuition fees.
Healthcare	30% – 50% Off	Dental, Eye tests, and non-insured medical bills.
Flights	15% – 20% Off	FlyDubai and other partner airlines.
Dining	25% – 35% Off	Popular chains like Nando’s and Texas Roadhouse.
Staycations	Up to 50% Off	Luxury hotels like Kempinski and Hyatt.

Note: I suggest you keep your Emirates ID with you. Many shops will ask to see your ID to ensure it matches the name on your digital Esaad card.

FAQs

Conclusion

In 2026, getting an Esaad card as an expat remains a fantastic way to save money on everyday expenses in the UAE. While not all private sector employees are currently eligible, the program is growing every year, with more and more partners joining.

If your company is not yet registered, speak to your HR or management about applying to become an Esaad partner. With thousands of benefits inside and outside the UAE, the Esaad card is a valuable reward for expatriates working in approved sectors.