Emirates Id
Emirates ID Services in Dubai
Professional and Efficient Emirates ID Solutions
The Emirates ID is one of the most essential documents for all residents in the UAE. Whether you’re a new expatriate, GCC national, or UAE citizen, obtaining or renewing your Emirates ID is a critical step in establishing your legal status and accessing vital services across the Emirates. Our professional Emirates ID services streamline the entire process, ensuring quick, hassle-free application and renewal with complete compliance to UAE Federal Authority requirements.
What Is an Emirates ID?
The Emirates ID is an official identity document issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) to all eligible residents in the UAE. It serves as comprehensive proof of residency and is recognized across all seven emirates for government, healthcare, financial, and administrative transactions. The card features advanced biometric technology including fingerprints, iris recognition, and facial photography to ensure security and prevent identity fraud.
The Emirates ID is far more than just an identification card—it is your gateway to seamless access to essential services throughout the UAE and is mandatory for most daily transactions and official procedures.
Key Benefits of Having an Emirates ID
Access to Government Services
Your Emirates ID provides authenticated access to all federal and local government portals and services. With it, you can apply for and renew driving licenses, register vehicles, pay traffic fines through RTA services, register for utilities and municipal services, and access health and immigration-related services requiring identity verification.
Streamlined Healthcare Access
The Emirates ID serves as your proof of residency for health insurance purposes and doubles as your health insurance card. Present it at hospitals and clinics across the UAE—both public and private facilities—to receive immediate treatment without carrying multiple documents. It simplifies patient registration and accelerates insurance verification processes.
Banking and Financial Services
Opening a bank account, obtaining credit products, and conducting financial transactions require your Emirates ID. Most UAE banks mandate the Emirates ID as primary proof of identity and residency for account holders.
Utilities and Telecommunications
Activating postpaid mobile services, home internet connections, and utility accounts requires your Emirates ID. Service providers use it to verify your identity and link services to registered residents within the UAE.
Property Rental and Real Estate Transactions
A valid Emirates ID is mandatory for Ejari registration—the official tenancy contract system in Dubai and other emirates. Without it, you cannot legally rent an apartment, villa, or office space. Real estate agents and landlords require your Emirates ID for all tenancy agreements and property transactions.
Enhanced Security and Identity Protection
The Emirates ID incorporates advanced biometric and encrypted data technology, making it significantly harder to forge or counterfeit. This built-in security provides extra protection against identity theft and unauthorized use.
Travel Convenience
At Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports, holders of valid Emirates ID can use e-gates to skip traditional passport control queues, allowing faster and more convenient travel through airport immigration.
Access to Exclusive Programs
Your Emirates ID can be linked to government loyalty and discount programs such as Fazaa and Esaad, unlocking special savings on shopping, dining, entertainment, and other services.
Who Can Apply for an Emirates ID?
Emirates ID services are available to three main categories of individuals:
UAE Citizens
All UAE nationals are eligible to apply for or renew their Emirates ID
GCC Nationals
Citizens of other Gulf Cooperation Council countries (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman) working or residing in the UAE can apply
Expatriates
Foreign nationals holding a valid UAE residence visa or entry permit are eligible to apply
Important Note: Tourists visiting the UAE are not eligible for Emirates ID as this service is exclusively available to residents with valid residency status.
Required Documents for Emirates ID Application
The specific documents needed depend on your category. Our team guides you through gathering the exact requirements for your situation.
For UAE Citizens:
Original family book (Watheeqa)
Original passport
Personal photograph (4.5 x 3.5 cm) with white background
For GCC Nationals:
Valid GCC passport (original)
Valid GCC national ID (original)
Proof of residence in the UAE (valid trade license, employment certificate, certificate of enrollment, or rental agreement)
Personal photograph (4.5 x 3.5 cm) with white background
Parent’s GCC ID if applicant is under 21 years old
For Expatriates:
Valid passport (original)
Valid UAE residency visa or entry permit (original and copy)
Proof of residence (tenancy contract, utility bill, or employment contract showing your UAE address)
Personal photograph (4.5 x 3.5 cm) with white background
For applicants under 15: birth certificate and parent’s passport or Emirates ID
Additional Requirements:
Completed Emirates ID application form (filled either online or at a typing center)
All documents must be original and valid on the submission date
If photocopies are submitted, they must be attested by a notary public
Step-by-Step Emirates ID Application Process
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents based on your category as an UAE citizen, GCC national, or expatriate. Ensure each document is current, valid, and in good condition. We provide a complete checklist to ensure nothing is missed.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form
Complete the official Emirates ID application form with accurate information matching your passport and residency documents. You have two options:
Online Application: Visit the ICP website, create an account using your email and UAE phone number, and complete the form electronically
Offline Application: Visit an accredited typing center or Amer center (in Dubai) where trained staff will complete and submit the application on your behalf
Step 3: Submit Documents and Pay Fees
Submit all required documentation along with your completed application form. The Emirates ID fee structure is AED 100 per year of validity. For example:
1-year validity: AED 100
2-year validity: AED 200
5-year validity: AED 500
10-year validity: AED 1,000
Payment is accepted at typing centers, Amer centers, and online portals.
Step 4: Provide Biometric Data
After application submission, you will receive an SMS notification directing you to visit an authorized ICP service center. During this mandatory visit, you will provide:
Fingerprint scans
Iris recognition
Facial photograph for card personalization and security purposes
This step applies to all applicants, whether you submitted your application online or offline.
Step 5: Application Processing
Once biometric data is collected, your application enters the production phase. Standard processing typically takes 5-7 working days. After successful submission to the ICP, you can track your application status online using your application reference number.
Step 6: Receive Your Emirates ID
Upon successful processing, you will receive an SMS or email notification confirming your card is ready. Your Emirates ID will be delivered through Emirates Post to your registered address, or you can collect it from a designated ICP service center at your convenience. Bring your passport and application form when collecting in person.
Processing Timelines
Standard Service
Application to card issuance: 5-7 working days
Total timeline from submission to collection: 1-2 weeks
Express Service (Fawri)
Processing time: 24-48 hours
Available for replacements and renewals
Additional fees apply for expedited processing
New Automatic Validity System
The UAE has recently implemented an automatic validity system that aligns your Emirates ID validity period with your age, synchronizing it with your passport validity. This system offers significant advantages:
Benefits of the New System:
Eliminates confusion caused by mismatched expiration dates
Reduces the frequency of renewals, saving time and costs
Ensures your travel documents and identity card expire simultaneously
Streamlines the renewal process considerably
Validity Periods Under the New System:
Children (under 15 years): Shorter validity to ensure biometric accuracy
Adults (15-60 years): Extended validity periods
Seniors (over 60 years): Appropriate validity based on age category
Your Emirates ID’s validity will now automatically align with your passport, making administrative processes smoother and eliminating last-minute renewal concerns.
Using Your Emirates ID for Daily Transactions
Once you receive your Emirates ID, you have immediate access to essential services:
Government Services: Use your ID number to authenticate on government portals for RTA services, utilities, and municipal transactions.
Healthcare: Present your Emirates ID at any public or private healthcare facility for immediate access to medical services without requiring separate insurance documentation.
Financial Services: Use your Emirates ID for banking services, opening accounts, and conducting financial transactions.
Travel: Use your Emirates ID at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airport e-gates for quick immigration processing without traditional passport queues.
Utilities and Telecommunications: Activate postpaid mobile, internet, and utility services by providing your Emirates ID details.
Digital Access: Download a soft copy of your Emirates ID through the official ICP mobile app for quick access when needed.
Important Compliance Requirements
Updating Your Information
If any of your personal details change (name, address, marital status, profession), you are required to update your Emirates ID information within one month of the change. Updates can be submitted through the ICP App or at authorized centers.
Renewal Notifications
The ICP will notify you via SMS when your Emirates ID is approaching expiration. Ensure you have a valid contact number registered with the ICP to receive these notifications.
Penalties for Expired ID
Operating with an expired Emirates ID can result in daily fines that accumulate quickly. It is essential to renew your card before the expiration date to maintain legal compliance and avoid penalties.
Why Choose Our Emirates ID Services?
Our professional team specializes in making the Emirates ID process seamless and stress-free:
Expert Guidance
Complete understanding of ICP requirements and procedures
Personalized assistance based on your specific category
Clear explanation of all steps and documentation needed
Efficient Processing
Quick document collection and verification
Coordination with ICP service centers
Real-time application tracking
Minimized processing delays
Comprehensive Support
Help gathering and organizing required documents
Assistance with online and offline applications
Biometric appointment scheduling
Card collection coordination
Compliance Assurance
Thorough verification of all documentation
Prevention of common application errors
Adherence to all ICP regulations and standards
Time-Saving Solutions
Handle complex procedures on your behalf
Reduce multiple office visits
Expedited service options available
Flexible scheduling to fit your timeline
Contact Us for Your Emirates ID Application
Whether you’re a new resident applying for your first Emirates ID or renewing an existing card, our professional team is ready to assist. We handle every aspect of the process, ensuring your application is processed correctly and promptly.
Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and begin your Emirates ID application. Let us handle the complexity while you focus on settling into your new life in the UAE.
Dubai Document Center
Dubai Document Center is a leading professional services firm specializing in comprehensive business solutions and document processing services across the United Arab Emirates.