Reflecting Dubai’s long-standing humanitarian focus, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has rolled out a major digital overhaul of bereavement services under the “City Makers” initiative. At the centre of this shift is the Jabr system, designed to simplify, digitalise and humanise death-related procedures, while ensuring families receive timely and compassionate support.

Through Jabr, families no longer need to visit multiple government departments. A dedicated Government Service Officer is assigned to each case, coordinating directly with all relevant entities and enabling families to focus on their emotional and social needs during a challenging period.

Once a death is registered, the unified digital platform automatically alerts all concerned authorities, triggering real-time coordination for documentation, burial or repatriation. This has significantly reduced the time required to complete formalities, including condolence and burial arrangements.

Dr. Alawi AlSheikh-Ali, Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority, said the system reflects Dubai’s commitment to placing people at the heart of governance. He noted that Jabr translates national values into a practical model of integrated, empathetic public service.

Majid Al Muhairi, Official Spokesperson of the Jabr system and Director of the Information Technology Department at DHA, emphasized that the initiative extends beyond administrative streamlining — offering psychological and social assistance before, during, and after the condolence period. “The service is no longer limited to completing procedures,” he said. “It reflects Dubai’s humanitarian vision to support people when they need it most.”

Death certificates are now issued and circulated automatically, removing the need for manual submissions. A unified smart dashboard facilitates faster decision-making, while a single payment gateway, developed in collaboration with Digital Dubai, streamlines transactions.

The system integrates social, psychological and religious support. Emirati families receive fully serviced condolence tents coordinated with relevant authorities, while residents are supported through partnerships with charitable organisations. More than 230 trained school counsellors are available to support students dealing with loss, alongside optional religious counselling.

Additional measures include volunteer training for funeral preparation, upgraded cemetery facilities and a proactive estate settlement process in coordination with Dubai Courts, enabling heirs to manage inheritance procedures more efficiently.

Jabr marks a broader shift towards digitally integrated, human-centred governance, reinforcing Dubai’s focus on compassion, efficiency and responsive public services.