Image: Dubai Media Office
Dubai has introduced a major overhaul of bereavement services, aiming to simplify and digitise all procedures linked to the death of a family member, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) said.
The move is part of the government’s wider “City Makers” initiative and is designed to offer faster, more humane support during what officials described as one of the most difficult periods for families.
The transformation is driven by a new system called ‘Jabr’, which centralises processes that previously required visits to multiple government offices.
Under the model, each case is assigned a government service oficer who handles all formalities on behalf of the family, coordinating with every relevant entity.
A unified digital platform also sends automatic notifications as soon as a death is registered, enabling government bodies to begin their tasks immediately.
Procedures such as transporting or repatriating the deceased, as well as burial and condolence arrangements, have been accelerated.
“The ‘Jabr’ system for facilitating bereavement-related services reflects Dubai Government’s profound commitment to placing people at the forefront of its priorities,” said Dr Alawi AlSheikh-Ali, director-general of DHA. He said the framework supports families psychologically and socially while easing administrative burdens.
He added that the system aligns with Dubai’s goal of keeping people at the centre of all services and reflects values embedded in the UAE community.
Majid Al Muhairi, official spokesperson of the Jabr system and director of Information Technology at DHA, said the new approach extends beyond paperwork. “The service is no longer limited to completing administrative procedures, it now extends to offering psychological and social support to the family before, during, and after the condolence period,” he said.
Al Muhairi said the transformation is part of a broader rollout under City Makers, adding that Dubai’s digital infrastructure has enabled services to be streamlined through advanced technologies and smart solutions.
Families will no longer need to visit multiple entities, and death certificates will be issued proactively and automatically circulated.
DHA said the updated system reduces emotional and financial burden on families, while supporting its goal of improving overall quality of life.
Juma Al Blooshi, consultant in the Public Health Protection Department, said the overhaul reflects Dubai’s commitment to integrating digital services in ways that ease pressure on families dealing with loss.
Highlights of the Jabr system
The Jabr system brings together several pillars, including assigning a dedicated officer for each case and providing real-time notifications across government entities.
Condolence tents will be offered to Emirati families with hospitality services for three days, supported by over 70 designated locations.
For residents, condolence initiatives are coordinated with eight public-benefit organisations and places of worship.
Psychological support is included, with 230 school counsellors trained to assist students coping with bereavement.
Optional religious lectures are available through the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department.
The digital framework includes a unified smart system that handles alerts and a dashboard used by entities to speed up decision-making.
Dubai Courts will open estate files proactively once a death certificate is issued, enabling heirs to move ahead with inheritance procedures without attending in person.
Funeral services have also been enhanced through volunteer training programmes for washing and shrouding the deceased, a shroud kit, and upgrades to cemetery facilities in coordination with Dubai Municipality.
