A platform that will support the families in the event of a loved one’s death has been launched by the Dubai Health Authority. The aim is to make the process easier, faster, and more compassionate during a very difficult time.
Photos by File
Under the Jabr system, families no longer need to visit different government departments to complete paperwork. Instead, a dedicated Government Service Officer will handle everything for them, such as issuing documents, arranging burial or repatriation, and coordinating with all relevant authorities.
A dedicated government service officer will now complete all the processes on behalf of a family, who would have otherwise needed to visit multiple entities. All the procedures and transactions will be done through full coordination with all relevant entities, reducing the burden on families during such sensitive times.
The unified digital platform will issue automatic notifications to all relevant entities as soon as a death is registered, enabling them to take the necessary actions immediately. This allows services to be prepared and delivered proactively, giving families more time to focus on emotional and social aspects.
At the same time, procedures for transporting the deceased and repatriating them abroad — should the family wish — have been expedited. The time required to complete burial and condolence-related services has also been significantly reduced to ensure a faster and smoother response.
Reducing financial burden
The new system has been introduced as part of the ‘City Makers’ initiatives to redesign shared government services. It will also help reduce the financial burden on bereaved families while streamlining procedures for burial and repatriating mortal remains.
The service not only helps complete administrative procedures but also extends psychological and social support to the family before, during, and after the condolence period.
Dr Alawi AlSheikh-Ali, Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority, said that the system will ensure that bereaved families receive the care, attention, and practical support they genuinely need. He said this shows the emirate’s priority on placing people at the centre of all services, policies, and initiatives.
Proactive issuance of death certificate
According to Majid Al Muhairi, spokesperson of the Jabr System and Director of IT at DHA, under the new system, a death certificate is proactively issued and automatically circulated to all relevant entities, ensuring it is not requested again by any party.
As a result, all services can be delivered swiftly and seamlessly through the dedicated Government Service Officer, who also completes all other procedures and provides the necessary support and social care for the family before and after the condolence period.
The integrated Jabr system was developed to surround bereaved families with comprehensive social and psychological support, helping them navigate and overcome these challenging circumstances.
Key Features of the Jabr System
A Government Service Officer for each family: The officer coordinates everything from burial arrangements to repatriation while keeping families updated. All services start immediately after a death is registered, without any applications.
Condolence tents and social support: For Emirati families, an extra condolence tent with hospitality services is provided for the three-day mourning period. More than 70 locations are ready for these tents. For resident families, support is offered through public-benefit organisations and places of worship. A specialised team also reviews each family’s social situation and provides help as needed.
Psychological and religious support: KHDA has trained 230 school counsellors to help students coping with the loss of a family member. Religious counsellors from IACAD are available to offer optional guidance and lectures to families.
Full digital integration: All government entities receive instant notifications through one smart system. A unified payment point reduces the number of transactions required for any fees.
Automatic inheritance process: Dubai Courts will automatically open an estate file as soon as the death certificate is issued. Authorities will record assets proactively so heirs can complete inheritance documents smoothly, including the Sharia-based heirship certificate.
Improved funeral services: IACAD has trained over 130 volunteers to wash and shroud the deceased. They have created a shroud kit and improved cemetery facilities to make funeral procedures faster and easier.
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Nasreen Abdulla
Nasreen Abdulla is a Special Correspondent covering food, tech and human interest stories. When not...