Esaad Cards & Privilege Programs
Overview
The UAE offers various privilege card programs that provide discounts, benefits, and special services. PROs should understand these programs to assist employees and clients.
Esaad Card
What is it? A privilege card program launched by Dubai Government. Offers discounts and benefits across various sectors in Dubai and the UAE. Available to government employees, private sector employees, residents, and visitors.
Benefits:
- Discounts at restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues.
- Discounts on retail and shopping.
- Discounts on travel and tourism.
- Discounts on healthcare and wellness.
- Discounts on education and training.
- Discounts on automotive services.
- Discounts on real estate services.
Eligibility:
- UAE government employees.
- Private sector employees (company must register).
- UAE residents.
- Visitors to the UAE (tourist version).
Application Process:
- Company registers on the Esaad platform.
- Employees apply through the company or individually.
- Pay annual fee (AED 420 for 1 year, AED 840 for 2 years).
- Card is issued digitally or physically.
PRO's Role:
- Register the company on the Esaad platform.
- Assist employees with applications.
- Track card renewals.
- Maintain records of issued cards.
Fazaa Card
What is it? A privilege card program by the Ministry of Interior. Similar to Esaad but available to a different audience.
Benefits:
- Discounts at various establishments.
- Social benefits.
- Discounts on fuel and automotive services.
- Discounts on retail and dining.
Eligibility:
- UAE nationals.
- Government employees.
- Military personnel.
- Some private sector employees (with company registration).
Privilege Club Cards
Various organizations offer privilege cards:
- Airline loyalty programs (Emirates Skywards, Etihad Guest).
- Hotel loyalty programs.
- Retail loyalty programs.
- Bank privilege cards.
Employee Privilege Programs
Corporate Discount Programs: Companies can negotiate discounts with local businesses for their employees. PROs can help establish these programs.
Government Employee Benefits: Government employees receive various benefits including housing allowance, education allowance, and healthcare.
Special Access Cards
VIP Access Cards: Some organizations issue VIP access cards for priority services at government entities, airports, and events.
Diplomatic Cards: Issued to diplomats and their families. Provide diplomatic immunity and special access.
Journalist Cards: Issued to accredited journalists. Provide press access and privileges.
PRO's Role in Privilege Programs
Register the company for relevant programs. Assist employees with applications. Track card renewals. Maintain records of issued cards. Educate employees on benefits. Handle card replacements. Liaise with card providers. Keep updated on new programs.
Key Considerations
Esaad and Fazaa cards are the most popular privilege cards in the UAE. They offer significant savings for employees. Company registration is required for employee participation. Annual renewal required. Digital and physical card options available. Benefits change regularly - check current offerings. Some benefits may have restrictions or conditions.
Benefits of Privilege Programs for Companies
Employee satisfaction and retention. Cost savings for employees. Enhanced employee benefits package. Competitive advantage in hiring. Positive company image. Tax-deductible expenses (in some cases). Improved employee morale.
Application Documentation
Company trade license. Establishment card. Employee passport copies. Employee Emirates IDs. Employee photos. Company stamp. Application form. Fee payment.
Common Issues
Card Not Received: Check application status. Contact provider. Allow processing time.
Benefits Not Working: Check card validity. Verify merchant participation. Contact provider.
Card Lost: Report immediately. Apply for replacement. Pay replacement fee.
Employee Left Company: Cancel the card. Notify the provider. Issue new card for replacement employee.
Best Practices
Register the company on Esaad and Fazaa platforms. Offer privilege cards as part of the benefits package. Track card renewals. Educate employees on benefits. Handle issues promptly. Maintain records. Review offerings annually. Consider additional privilege programs. Negotiate corporate discounts. Enhance the employee benefits package.