Love reading? Or are you looking for a quiet place to study? If so, you would probably enjoy the benefits of having a membership with Dubai’s Public Libraries.
From the vast collection available at Mankhool Library (you get more than 35,000 books to pick from) to fun activities at Al Twar Library – members will get access to much more than any other resident.
In fact, the membership gives you access to all physical and digital books and even free internet across all public libraries in the emirate. Aside from that, members get discounted rates on library services for a period of five years.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
Here is everything you need to know about getting a membership:
Cost
The cost of the membership varies on the basis of the applicant. Here is the full list:
| Type of membership | Fee | Insurance |
| Child | Free | Dh75 |
| Adult | Dh50 | Dh150 |
| Family | Dh50 | Dh200 |
Additionally, Dh20 will be charged as innovation and knowledge fees.
How to apply
The process of application is simple and requires just a copy of your valid ID. Here is how you can apply online:
1. First head to the website of Dubai’s Culture and Arts Authority. Head to Attractions and select ‘Libraries’.
2. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on ‘E-Services’.
3. You will be directed to a new page. On the left side, you will be able to see and select the option ‘Public Libraries Services’. Once you click it, you will see ‘New Membership’ appear on the page. Click on ‘Start Service’ under the title.
4. A registration page (pictured below) will appear. Here, fill in your details and sign up or you can use UAE Pass to sign in.
5. If you use your details to sign up – you will receive an email after you click ‘Sign Up’. In the email, you will receive a link to activate your account.
6. You will then be logged into your Dubai Libraries Account. Click on ‘Profile’ next, and then choose the option that says ‘Upgrade Account’.
7. Here, choose the type of membership and agree to the terms and conditions. Then, you will be taken to a page where you have to upload a picture of the front and back of your Emirates ID.
8. Once you complete filling out all your information, you can pay. You will receive an email in order to do so.
9. You will now get a Digital Libraries Membership Card, which you can show at all public libraries.
Fines
If you are getting a membership for Dubai’s Public Libraries, you should be aware of the penalties that can be levied.
1. 50 fils will be charged per day on the delay of returning an item.
2. In case of loss or damage of a book, members have two options, they can:
a. Hand over the same library item and pay Dh25 in lieu of administrative expenses; or
b. Pay the value of the library item and Dh25 in lieu of administrative expenses
The fine of damaging a book is Dh50. Knowledge and innovation fess of Dh20 will also be charged. In case the magnetic sticker is damaged, an additional Dh10 will be charged.
In case the member is unable to comply with the above, their membership will be cancelled and security deposit will not be returned.