Occupational Health Card
Also known as: food handler card, health card
Quick Answer
An occupational health card is the mandatory health clearance every food handler in Dubai must hold. Issued after a Dubai Municipality health check, it is required for anyone preparing or serving food and is renewed annually.
Every employee who handles food — in a restaurant, café, cloud kitchen, grocery, or catering business — must hold a valid occupational health card, confirming they have passed a Dubai Municipality health screening and food-hygiene requirements. It costs roughly AED 300–600 per person per year and must be renewed annually.
The card is one of the recurring compliance items F&B operators budget for; missing or expired cards can trigger inspection penalties. ZETUP processes health cards and their renewals as part of PRO support for food businesses.
Frequently asked questions
What is an occupational health card in Dubai?
The mandatory health clearance every food handler must hold — issued after a Dubai Municipality health check, required for anyone preparing or serving food, and renewed annually at roughly AED 300–600 per person.
Who needs a health card in Dubai?
Every employee who handles food in a restaurant, café, cloud kitchen, grocery, or catering business.
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