The Emirates ID is the UAE’s mandatory identity card for citizens and residents. It confirms identity, contains residency details, and is required for banking, telecom, healthcare, education, and travel. Issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), it underpins daily life and legal status in the UAE.
What Is the Emirates ID and Who Needs It?
Each Emirates ID card is a biometric smart card issued by the ICP. It contains:
A smart chip with your personal and biometric data (photo, fingerprints, digital certificates).
A unique 15-digit identification number printed on the front. This number is permanent, it never changes, even when the card is renewed or replaced.
Example format: 784-1985-1234567-1
“784” = UAE country code
Next four digits = year of birth
Remaining digits = unique sequence for each person
This number is used across UAE government systems to link all records, from visas and residency files to healthcare, driving licences, and traffic fines. It is effectively your lifelong identity reference in the UAE.
All UAE nationals and residents must carry a valid Emirates ID.
Key Functions of the Emirates ID:
Mandatory for official transactions and services
Required at smart gates and eGates
Serves as a GCC travel document for citizens
Since April 2022, residency visas are embedded in the ID; passport stickers have been discontinued
Legal note: Employers and organisations cannot retain your Emirates ID. They may only copy the information.
Emirates ID Validity and Required Documents
Validity Periods by Category
UAE nationals: 5 or 10 years
GCC residents: 5 years
Expatriate residents: 2–3 years (linked to residence visa)
Documents Required
Nationals: Passport, family book
GCC residents: Proof of residence (tenancy contract, utility bill)
Expatriates: Passport with residence visa
Children under 15: Birth certificate, photo with white background
How to Apply for Emirates ID: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Log into ICP Smart Services or visit an authorised typing centre.
2. Fill in the Emirates ID application form (or New Identity Card Issuance).
3. Submit documents and pay fees.
4. Book and attend biometrics (photo + fingerprints) if required.
5. Receive your application (PRAN) number for tracking.
6. Card is printed and dispatched via Emirates Post or collection centre.
Processing time: 5–10 working days after biometrics; up to two weeks in busy periods.
Source: ICP
Emirates ID Fees and Charges in 2025
Standard Fees
AED 100 per year of validity (issuance/renewal)
Service fee: AED 40 (e-service) or AED 70 (typing centre)
Replacement Fees
AED 300 for lost or damaged cards
Plus service fee (AED 40 online / AED 70 typing centre)
Fawri Urgent Service
The Fawri Service issues or replaces IDs within 24 hours for:
- Available to UAE nationals (all cases), GCC nationals with UAE residence, and expatriates replacing lost or damaged cards.
Urgent service fee: AED 150 in addition to standard card and service charges.
Typical total cost: AED 370–450, depending on applicant category, validity period, and where the application is processed.
Note: For expatriate residents, the urgent Fawri service is available only for replacement of lost or damaged cards, not for new issuances or renewals.
Source: ICP
Receiving Your Emirates ID Card and Using the Digital Version
Physical card delivery: Cards are dispatched by Emirates Post, and applicants receive SMS notifications when the card is printed, dispatched, or ready for collection.
Digital Emirates ID: While waiting for the physical card, you can access a digital version through the UAEICP or UAE Pass apps. It is accepted by banks, telecom providers, hospitals, and government e-services, and functions as valid proof of identity until the physical card arrives.
Emirates ID Uses in Banking, Healthcare and Travel
Your Emirates ID is required for:
- Banking and finance (opening accounts, credit applications).
- Telecom and utility connections.
- Healthcare access and health insurance activation.
- School and university enrolment.
- Tenancy contracts and property registration.
- Immigration checks and eGates.
- GCC travel for UAE citizens.
Emirates ID Renewal, Replacement, and Cancellation
Renewal Rules
Nationals: Can renew their Emirates ID as early as 6 months before expiry, but must do so at least 1 month before expiry.
Residents: Renew alongside visa renewal
Grace period: 30 days after expiry
Late penalty: AED 20/day, max AED 1,000
Renew your Emirates ID card via the ICP portal and click on the ‘Emirates ID Card Renewal‘ (or Identity Card Renewal).
Replacement for Lost or Damaged Cards
1. Report loss/damage at ICP Customer Happiness Centre
2. Visit the ICP website and click on the Issue Replacement for lost/damaged Emirates ID Card service (or Issue Replacement for lost/damaged ID Card).
3. Pay AED 300 + service fees (AED 40 online / AED 70 typing centre).
Cancellation and Surrender
When cancelling a residence visa, the Emirates ID must also be surrendered to ICP or immigration.
Source: ICP
How to Check Emirates ID Application Status
Check your application via the official ICP ID Card Status portal.
- Enter your PRAN number (new cards) or Emirates ID number (renewals/replacements).
- Status messages include: In Process, Printed, Dispatched, Ready for Collection.
See our Emirates ID status check guide for full steps.
How to Update or Change Emirates ID Information
It is mandatory to update ICP if your details change, including:
Mobile number
Name or marital status
Nationality or profession
Change Your Emirates ID Mobile Number
Update through ICP Smart Services, typing centres, or smart police stations.
Follow our Emirates ID mobile number change guide.
Update Name, Marital Status or Other Details
Submit a request via ICP with supporting documents (e.g. marriage certificate). Updated cards are issued once approved.
Emirates ID Security Features, Biometric Chip and Compliance Rules
Security Features
15-digit unique lifetime ID number
Smart chip with 32,000 characters
Fingerprint biometrics and encrypted data
PKI digital certificates for authentication
Nine anti-fraud features including UV ink and micro-printing
Fines and Exemptions
Late renewal/registration: AED 20/day, max AED 1,000
Exemptions: Available for those abroad or with valid reasons (apply via ICP)
How Virtuzone Helps
The Emirates ID is more than just an identification card, it is the foundation of daily life in the UAE. From proving your residency status to opening a bank account, enrolling in healthcare, and passing through airport eGates, it is essential for every citizen and resident. Understanding how to apply, renew, replace, and keep your details updated ensures you remain compliant and avoid costly fines.
At Virtuzone, we support thousands of residents and business owners with Emirates ID and Golden visa services. Our PRO specialists manage the paperwork, liaise with government authorities, and make sure your applications, renewals, and updates are processed quickly and correctly. That means less time dealing with red tape, and more time focusing on your business or personal goals.
Whether you are applying for the first time, renewing, or replacing your Emirates ID, Virtuzone is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to streamline your Emirates ID and visa processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I travel within the UAE without carrying my Emirates ID?
You should always carry your Emirates ID. Police and authorities may request it at checkpoints. While the digital ID on UAEICP or UAE Pass may be accepted in some cases, the law requires you to keep the physical card with you.
What happens if my Emirates ID card is damaged in the chip area?
A damaged chip can prevent your card from working at smart gates or digital services. Even if the printed data looks fine, you must apply for a replacement card to avoid service interruptions.
Can I use Emirates ID for e-signatures or digital contracts?
Yes. The Emirates ID includes a PKI digital certificate that allows you to securely sign e-documents and authenticate your identity in approved government and banking systems.
How do minors under 15 use the Emirates ID?
Children under 15 receive an Emirates ID without fingerprints. Parents use it for school enrolment, healthcare registration, and insurance, but children do not need to present it for immigration smart gates until they are older.
What if I lose my Emirates ID while abroad?
Report the loss immediately through ICP Smart Services or the UAE Embassy/Consulate. You will be issued a replacement card after re-entering the UAE, but carry a copy of your Emirates ID or visa documents while travelling.
Why is the Emirates ID linked to my UAE driving licence?
It ensures one central identity record across government systems, so traffic fines, licence renewals, and residency details are all tied to the same Emirates ID number.
