Everything you need to know about riding with Bolt as a Person of Determination.
1. What does POD mean?
POD stands for People of Determination — a term we use with pride to recognise riders like you who live with special needs or disabilities. At Bolt, we want your rides to feel easy, respectful, and tailored to you.
2. What is a Sanad ID, and why does it matter to me?
Your Sanad ID is your official card issued by the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai. It confirms your status as a Person of Determination — and it's your key to a 50% discount on every ride you take in the POD car category with Bolt.
3. I don't have a Sanad ID yet — can I still get the discount?
Unfortunately not. Without a valid Sanad ID, your trip will be charged as a regular ride and the 50% discount won't be applied. If you believe you're eligible, we'd recommend reaching out to the CDA to apply for one — it's the only way we can confirm your eligibility.
4. How do I add my Sanad ID to the Bolt app?
It only takes a minute. Here's how:
- Open your Bolt app.
- Tap the menu icon (☰) in the top-left corner.
- Go to My Account.
- Select Personal Info.
- Tap on Sanad ID.
- Enter your Sanad ID number and tap Save.
That's it — you're all set!
5. I can't see the option to add my Sanad ID in the app. What's wrong?
Nothing's wrong on your end. The Sanad ID option is currently available only in Dubai. If you're riding from another emirate, you won't see this option yet — but we're always working to expand our services, so stay tuned.
6. The driver asked to see my Sanad ID when they arrived. Is that normal?
Yes, that's a standard part of the process. When your driver arrives, please have your Sanad ID ready so they can verify it in person. Once the driver confirms it's valid, your 50% discount is automatically applied to the trip. If the ID can't be verified for any reason, the ride will continue at the regular fare.
7. I didn't receive my 50% discount — what should I do?
We're sorry to hear that! If your Sanad ID was verified but the discount wasn't applied, please contact our support team through the app and we'll look into it right away. You can reach support via Help in your ride history.
8. Why was I charged a booking fee?
There are two types of booking fees you may see on your receipt:
- RTA booking fee (AED 1): Good news — this one is waived for POD riders.
- Bolt booking fee (AED 3, 3.5, or 6.5): This fee depends on the time of day and applies to every trip, including POD rides.
9. Do I also get a discount on tolls, border fees, or booking charges?
Your 50% discount applies to the trip fare only. Any additional charges — such as Salik tolls, border fees, or the Bolt booking fee — are charged in full, as they would be for any other rider.
10. My meter started at AED 6 instead of AED 4. Was I overcharged?
No — you weren't overcharged. The starting fare depends on the time of day:
- Off-peak hours: the meter starts at AED 4.
- Peak hours: the meter starts at AED 6.
Both of these starting fares already include your 50% Sanad discount — so the saving is built in from the very first second.
11. Can my caretaker, relative, or friend use my discount when I'm not in the car?
We're afraid not. The 50% discount is exclusively for People of Determination who hold a valid Sanad ID, and it only applies when you — the cardholder — are actually in the vehicle. It can't be shared with caretakers, family members, or friends travelling on their own.
12. I have a POD card from another authority — can I use it instead of a Sanad ID?
POD cards are issued by various authorities, such as the Ministry of Community Development (MOCD) or other local bodies. However, in Dubai, only the Sanad ID issued by the Community Development Authority (CDA) can be used to unlock the 50% POD discount with Bolt. Other cards, unfortunately, aren't accepted for this discount.
Still need help?
We're here for you. If you have a question that isn't covered above, just tap Help in the Bolt app after your trip — our team will be happy to assist.
