Dubai has introduced a new Unified Health Screening service that combines residency medical fitness tests and occupational health examinations into one streamlined digital process, with residency permits issued automatically once medical results are approved.

Launched under the City Makers initiative, the service is designed to simplify procedures for residents, professionals and employers across sectors. Instead of completing separate medical fitness and occupational health screenings, applicants can now finish all required examinations in a single visit.

How the unified health screening works

Through a smart digital platform, applicants select their profession and the system automatically determines the required medical tests. Once completed and approved, the results are digitally integrated across government entities. Residency permits are then issued automatically, eliminating duplication, paperwork and additional processing time.

The service connects databases between key authorities, allowing secure and real-time data exchange. Officials say this improves efficiency, reduces errors and supports preventive planning as Dubai continues to grow economically and demographically.

Government integration across dubai

The initiative was developed in collaboration with:

• Dubai Health Authority (DHA)
• General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA Dubai)
• Dubai Municipality
• Supreme Legislation Committee
• Department of Finance

Officials described the launch as a “qualitative leap” in government integration, highlighting its role in automating processes, accelerating data exchange and improving customer experience.

The new system also supports inspection teams by providing access to real-time occupational health data, enhancing compliance monitoring and emergency preparedness.

Where the Service Is Available

The Unified Health Screening service is currently available at Dubai Health medical fitness centres, including:

• Al Garhoud
• Al Nahda
• Al Karama
• Al Yalayis
• Bur Dubai
• Jebel Ali Free Zone
• Zabeel
• Smart Salem Centres

Authorities confirmed that additional centres will be added in the next phase to meet growing demand.

What Is the City Makers Initiative?

The City Makers initiative promotes cross-government collaboration to deliver integrated, customer-focused public services across Dubai.

Dubai motorists will benefit from free mosque parking throughout Ramadan, while public parking across the city will include a daily two-hour free window around Maghrib.

Dubai’s public parking operator, Parkin, confirmed that all mosque-designated parking zones marked M and MP will be free all day during the holy month.

For regular public parking zones, fees will apply in two phases from Monday to Saturday:

• 8am to 6pm
• 8pm to 12 midnight

Parking will be free daily from 6pm to 8pm, giving residents a two-hour window around sunset when many are heading to Iftar or attending Maghrib prayers.

Sundays and public holidays will remain free, as per the standard policy.

Meanwhile, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) also confirmed that multi-storey parking facilities will continue operating 24 hours a day, although charges will apply as usual in those facilities.

The evening free period is expected to ease congestion near mosques and dining areas, particularly during peak Iftar hours when traffic volumes typically spike across the emirate.

Residents are advised to check signage carefully, especially in mixed-use areas, and ensure they are parked in designated mosque zones if relying on the full-day exemption.

Ramadan parking adjustments form part of Dubai’s annual measures aimed at easing mobility and supporting residents during the holy month.

Sharjah residents will find it easier than ever to give this Ramadan, as Sharjah Charity International rolls out a major digital and community-wide donation drive ahead of the holy month.

The charity has confirmed full readiness to receive Zakat and Ramadan donations, introducing new tech-enabled solutions alongside traditional giving channels to make contributions faster, safer and more accessible across the emirate.

Smart donation screens in malls

As part of the Ramadan 2026 campaign “Jood”, 18 smart donation screens have been installed in major shopping malls across Sharjah.

The digital platforms allow donors to contribute using:

• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay
• QR code scanning
• Credit cards

The move replaces traditional collection methods with secure, cashless options designed for convenience during busy Ramadan evenings.

Thousands of donation boxes across emirate

Sharjah Charity International has also expanded its physical donation network, including:

• 6,729 small donation boxes in grocery stores across the emirate
• 100 donation boxes placed in mosques and public locations during Friday prayers, Taraweeh and Qiyam Al Lail
• 578 donation cabinets installed in mosques in coordination with the Sharjah Department of Islamic Affairs
• 730 large donation boxes in hotels under the “Enmaa Al Khair” initiative

In addition, 83 electronic donation devices have been placed in hotels in partnership with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.

Handheld devices and volunteers deployed

To support peak giving times, the association has introduced:

• 256 handheld donation devices linked directly to headquarters for secure transactions
• 54 customer service staff stationed at malls and government centres
• 100 vetted volunteers overseeing donation efforts during high-traffic prayer times

Officials say all systems are designed to ensure transparency, speed and secure processing.

Multiple ways to donate in Sharjah

Residents can also donate via:

• The charity’s official website
• SMS services
• Smart donation links
• Credit cards and bank transfers
• Mobile app
• Call centre (80014)

With digital tools and thousands of donation points across malls, mosques, hotels and grocery stores, Sharjah Charity International expects high community participation throughout Ramadan 2026.