Understanding The Emirates ID: What It Is, Validity And Renewal

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) issues Emirates IDs to all UAE citizens and residents. Emirates ID applications, renewals, and replacements. This Emirates ID guide includes application materials, costs, and processing periods.

WHAT IS THE EMIRATES ID?

The Emirates ID or UAE ID cards are issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). All UAE residents must have one as a portable personal database. UAE residents must get and carry the card.

Emirates ID cards include 15-digit identifying numbers. The card’s photo and electronic chip include the holder’s personal data, including finger biometrics.

WHY DO YOU NEED AN EMIRATES ID?

ICP’s Emirates ID goes beyond legal identification. To apply for a new phone and internet connection, establish a bank account, pay DEWA bills, register your vehicle, pay traffic fines, and more, you must provide your card data.

All cardholders can benefit from Emirates ID. Cardholders can use the Smart Gates at Dubai International Airport terminals to complete passport control in seconds instead of waiting in line. Emirates ID holders can use their cards at Al Etihad Credit Bureau customer service centers to request credit reports. Thus, the Emirates ID is useful for UAE residents.

WHAT ARE THE SPECIAL FEATURES OF THE UPDATED EMIRATES ID?

ICP’s Emirates ID goes beyond legal identification. To apply for a new phone and internet connection, establish a bank account, pay DEWA bills, register your vehicle, pay traffic fines, and more, you must provide your card data.

All cardholders can benefit from Emirates ID. Example: cardholderThe Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) is updating Emirati passports and ID cards. This project introduces an enhanced Emirates ID.

The new card will safeguard non-visible data. ICP’s E-link can read private information. This new card is made of polycarbonate, ensuring a 10-year lifespan. The cardholder’s birthdate will also validate laser printing.

The card chip has a greater capacity and non-touch data reading. Finally, the new card will include demographic group, issuing authority, and professional data.

Old Emirates IDs are valid until expiration. Renewal applicants can use the digital version until they obtain the real card. ICP UAE Smart has the digital Emirates ID card. App Store and Google Play offer it.

Updates to your Emirates ID will not cost extra. High-tech security helps prevent identity theft.Passport control at Dubai International Airport can be completed in seconds using the Smart Gates. Emirates ID holders can use their cards at Al Etihad Credit Bureau customer service centers to request credit reports. Thus, the Emirates ID is useful for UAE residents.

WHAT IS THE EMIRATES ID VALIDITY?

The validity of Emirates ID differs for expats, UAE citizens and GCC nationals.

• Expat Residents: Depends on the validity of the UAE residence visa
• UAE Citizens: 5 or 10 years
• GCC Nationals: 5 years

HOW TO RENEW YOUR EMIRATES ID?

UAE nationals and residents have 30 days to renew their Emirates ID cards after expiration. Late penalties are AED 20 every day after this time. Late fines might reach AED 1,000.

UAE citizens can renew their cards six to one month before expiration. Residence visa holders can only renew their cards after expiration.

WHERE CAN YOU RENEW YOUR EMIRATES ID?

The Emirates ID renewal process is the same as applying for a new ID card, including the service channels through which applicants can renew.

If an expatriate’s residence visa is already stamped and active, they can renew the Emirates ID via the ICP website or typing centre.

1 Year Validity: AED 290
2 Years Validity: AED 390
3 Years Validity: AED 490

WHAT ARE THE DOCUMENTS NEEDED FOR EMIRATES ID RENEWAL?

Mandatory documents required for Emirates ID renewal for expats, UAE Nationals and GCC Nationals are almost the same as for first-time applicants. Applicants will also need to carry along their old ID cards when going for the renewal process.

WHAT IS THE EMIRATES ID RENEWAL COST?

The Emirates ID renewal fees are the same as that for first-time applicants, which vary depending on the validity of the card, method of application and whether the cardholder is an expat or UAE/GCC National. Please take a look at the application costs above to find out the Emirates ID renewal charges.

WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR EMIRATES ID RENEWAL?

The renewal process for the UAE ID card requires the same steps as that for first-time applications and has the same processing time.

CAN EMIRATES LIVING ABROAD RENEW THEIR EMIRATES ID ONLINE?

Yes, they can via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) smart app. Applications can be submitted six months before card expiry and the fee is AED 270.