Anyone who wishes to live, work, or start a business in the United Arab Emirates will sooner or later have to deal with the Emirates ID, an essential document for accessing most public and private services in the country.
What is the Emirates ID
The Emirates ID is the official identity card issued by the United Arab Emirates’ Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). It is mandatory for all citizens, residents, and expatriates with a valid residence visa. This digital/physical document integrates personal and biometric data (fingerprints, photograph) and a unique 15-digit identification number.
It serves not only as proof of identity and residency status, but is also essential for accessing numerous government, banking, healthcare, administrative, and digital services.
How to obtain the Emirates ID and what the requirements are
The procedure to obtain the Emirates ID involves several steps:
1. Step 1: Valid residence visa
First of all, you must have an active residence visa in the UAE. Without this, the application cannot begin.
2. Step 2: Submit the application
You can do this online through the ICP (Identity & Citizenship) portal or by going to an accredited Typing Centre, which helps fill out the form and collect the required documents.
3. Step 3: Required documents
• Valid passport + residence visa
• Passport-style photograph that meets the required standards
• In some cases, proof of residence, employment contract, proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
4. Step 4: Biometric registration
To confirm that the applicant is in good health, medical tests are required, including blood tests and an ultrasound.
5. Step 5: Biometric registration
At the time of application, fingerprints and a biometric photograph are taken at an ICP center.
6. Step 6: Payment of fees
A fee is required, the amount of which depends on the type of visa, the requested duration, and whether urgent services are chosen.
7. Step 7: Issuance of the document
Once the application has been processed (usually within a few working days), you receive a notice by SMS/email and can pick up the card at a designated center or receive it by mail, if available.
The benefits of having the Emirates ID
Having an Emirates ID brings numerous concrete benefits, both in everyday life and for those who work or invest in the UAE:
• Direct access to digital government services (payments, applications, renewals) through e-government systems, such as UAE Pass.
• Use as an official document for banking procedures, opening an account, and identity verification.
• Use at airports through smart gates/e-gates for citizens/GCC nationals, speeding up controls.
• The possibility of accessing broader business opportunities, such as the dual license, which allows operations simultaneously in free zones and on the mainland.
• A document required (or highly useful) for rental contracts, domestic services, healthcare, and business licenses, obtainable more quickly thanks to the Fawri platform.
• Greater data security thanks to biometric components and an electronic chip; reduces identity fraud.
Emirates ID and renewal: how does it work?
Renewal also has specific procedures: it’s important to do it on time to avoid penalties and service disruptions. UAE citizens can request renewal between six months and one month before expiry; expatriate residents usually at the time of renewing their residence visa. After expiry there may still be a grace period, after which daily fines are applied.
To request renewal, it is essential to have: a passport with a valid visa, the previous Emirates ID if available, and proof of address or residence (if changed). As for the methods, you can renew directly online, via the ICP app, or by going in person to an accredited center.
Start off on the right foot and contact us to guide you step by step in obtaining and/or renewing your Emirates ID.