In a significant administrative update, the UAE has restructured the process for obtaining birth and death certificates. The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has officially delegated these responsibilities to Emirates Health Services (EHS) for residents in the northern emirates, including Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. This move aims to streamline service delivery and enhance efficiency in vital registration processes.
What Has Changed Across UAE?
Previously, MoHAP managed the issuance of birth and death certificates across the UAE. With the new directive, EHS now oversees these services in the specified northern emirates. Residents in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will continue to engage with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) respectively for such matters.
Accessing the New Services
Residents seeking to obtain birth or death certificates can now do so through the EHS platform. The application process is integrated with the UAE Pass system, ensuring secure and streamlined access. Services are available online via the EHS website and at public health centres and government hospitals under EHS jurisdiction.
Applying for a Birth Certificate
Eligibility:
Parents of newborns, regardless of nationality, can apply for a birth certificate. Authorized representatives may also submit applications on behalf of the parents.
Required Documents:
- Valid Emirates ID and passport for both parents
- Official birth notification from the hospital where the birth occurred
- Marriage certificate or parentage certificate, authenticated as per UAE regulations
- Electronic civil record
Application Process:
- Log in to the EHS portal using UAE Pass credentials.
- Complete the online application form and upload the necessary documents.
- Pay the applicable fees electronically.
- Upon verification, the birth certificate will be issued and can be collected from the designated health centre or delivered as per the applicant’s preference.
Special Note for Emirati Citizens:
Emirati nationals can utilize the “Mabrouk Ma Yak” service, a comprehensive package that facilitates the issuance of all necessary documents for newborns in a single application.
Applying for a Death Certificate
Eligibility:
Immediate family members or authorized individuals can apply for a death certificate.
Required Documents:
- Emirates ID or passport of the deceased
- Official death notification
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) for burial from the Ministry of Interior
- For cases involving criminal investigations or unknown causes of death, a forensic report is mandatory
Application Process:
- Access the EHS portal and log in using UAE Pass.
- Submit the application along with the required documents.
- Pay the prescribed fees online.
- After document verification, an electronic death certificate will be issued. Physical copies can be collected from the relevant health centre.
Service Fees and Processing Time
- Birth Certificate: AED 65 (Arabic); AED 65 (English, if requested). Processing time: 1 working day.
- Death Certificate: AED 65 (Arabic or English). Processing time: Approximately 5 minutes post-verification.
Service Hours
- Monday to Thursday: 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Friday: 7:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Importance of Timely Registration
According to UAE regulations, births must be registered within 30 days, and deaths within 72 hours. Adhering to these timelines ensures legal compliance and facilitates subsequent administrative processes, such as passport issuance and visa applications.
The transition of birth and death certificate services to Emirates Health Services represents the UAE’s commitment to enhancing public service delivery. Authorities encourage northern emirates residents to learn the new procedures for seamless access to essential services.
For further information and to access the services, residents can visit the official Emirates Health Services website or consult their local public health centres.
