What Is the Certificate of Loss and Destruction?
In Sharjah, the flood damage certificate is officially called a "Certificate of Loss and Destruction." It is issued by Sharjah Police and serves the same purpose as Dubai's TWIMC certificate or Abu Dhabi's SAEED report. It confirms that your vehicle was damaged during a flood or natural disaster event and creates the official police record that your insurance company requires before processing your claim.
The key advantage for Sharjah residents is that during officially declared flood events, Sharjah Police issues these certificates completely free of charge. This is a significant saving compared to Dubai's AED 95 or Abu Dhabi's AED 400 fee.
When Is It Free?
The free certificate is available during periods when Sharjah Police officially recognises a natural disaster or severe weather event. During major UAE floods, Sharjah Police typically announces the free service through their social media channels and the official Sharjah Government media office. Outside of declared disaster periods, a standard incident report fee may apply. Check the Sharjah Police app or their official social media accounts to confirm whether the free service is currently active.
Documents You Need
- Emirates ID of the vehicle owner (digital copy is acceptable)
- Vehicle registration card (Mulkiya) showing the vehicle is registered in Sharjah or was present in Sharjah during the flood
- Photos of the flood damage showing all sides of the vehicle, the interior, and the surrounding flooded area
- Phone number registered under your name for OTP verification
Step-by-Step Guide Through the Sharjah Police App
Follow these 17 steps to complete your application:
- Step 1: Download and install the Sharjah Police app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) if you have not already.
- Step 2: Open the app and create an account or log in with your existing credentials.
- Step 3: Complete your profile verification by entering your Emirates ID number and personal details.
- Step 4: From the home screen, navigate to "Services" or "E-Services."
- Step 5: Select "Traffic Services" from the available service categories.
- Step 6: Look for "Certificate of Loss and Destruction" or "Vehicle Damage Report." During flood events, this option may be prominently featured at the top of the list.
- Step 7: Tap "New Application" to begin a fresh submission.
- Step 8: An OTP (One-Time Password) will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter this code to verify your identity.
- Step 9: Select the type of incident. Choose "Natural Disaster," "Flood," or "Weather Damage" from the available options.
- Step 10: Enter your vehicle plate number and plate category (private, taxi, etc.). The system will auto-populate your vehicle details from the registration database.
- Step 11: Verify the vehicle details that appear: make, model, year, colour, and chassis number. Confirm they are correct.
- Step 12: Select the date the flood damage occurred from the calendar.
- Step 13: Enter the location where the vehicle was when the flooding happened. Type the area name or use the map to pin the location.
- Step 14: Upload your damage photos. Include clear images of the exterior (all four sides), interior (footwell, seats, dashboard), and any visible engine bay damage.
- Step 15: Upload your Emirates ID (front and back) and vehicle registration card.
- Step 16: Review all the information and photos you have submitted. Ensure everything is accurate and the photos are clear and well-lit.
- Step 17: Submit the application. If the free service is active, no payment will be required. You will receive a confirmation screen with a reference number.
Processing Time
During normal periods, processing takes 1 to 3 business days. During major flood events with high application volumes, expect 3 to 7 business days. You will receive an SMS and app notification when your certificate is ready for download.
After Your Certificate Is Approved
Download the certificate PDF from the Sharjah Police app. Send it directly to your insurance company along with your damage photos and any inspection reports. The certificate, combined with your documentation, allows the insurer to open and process your flood damage claim.
Tips for Sharjah Residents
- Act quickly during flood events. The free certificate window may not stay open indefinitely. Apply as soon as the service is announced.
- Keep your Sharjah Police app updated. Older versions of the app may not display the flood damage certificate option correctly.
- Take photos immediately after the flood. Do not wait for the water to recede completely. Timestamped photos showing the water level on your vehicle are powerful evidence.
- If you work in Dubai but live in Sharjah, file the certificate in the emirate where the vehicle was physically located during the flood, not where it is registered.
For more flood recovery resources specific to Sharjah, including towing services, garages, and insurance contacts, visit our Sharjah flood recovery guide.