Question: I have been offered a position in Abu Dhabi and hope to move in January but have some concerns. My wife has a disability that means she has to use a wheelchair often. She currently has a European parking card (locally the Carte Mobilite Inclusion) that allows us to use disabled parking spaces with some other benefits. Does a similar system exist in the UAE? PB, Lyons, France

Answer: In recent years, the UAE has introduced schemes to assist what are referred to as people of determination. This covers a wide range of disabilities and impairments with the protection of a robust legal framework.

For transport, most Emirates have specially adapted taxis and there are free parking permits and plenty of dedicated parking spaces.

In order to apply for a disabled parking card (person of determination parking permit) in Abu Dhabi, PB’s wife will need to obtain her Emirates Identity Card as a resident. She then needs to apply for a ZHO card through the website.

This is an additional form of identification for people of determination. It not only allows a person to apply for the parking card but also for various other benefits across the UAE, such as exemptions and discounts.

There is no cost to apply for the ZHO card, but a medical report is required to confirm the disability. This must be less than 12 months old and written by a registered doctor. Any clinic should be able to assist. The application for the ZHO card is made through UAE Pass, the national digital identity for all citizens, residents and visitors in the Emirates, an app all residents need to have on their phones.

Once logged into UAE Pass, go to the section marked “People of Determination” or “Parking Permit”. Documents are uploaded through this app. Once the ZHO card has been issued, an application can be made for the parking permit.

This application is made through Tamm (the Abu Dhabi government website), again using UAE Pass. Information is uploaded, including details of the vehicle and any first or second-degree relatives who will be driving.