What is Emirates ID in UAE and How to Apply for It?

Introduction

In the UAE, the Emirates ID is not just a requirement, it's the necessity of daily life. As a UAE national, an expatriate resident, or a GCC national residing in the Emirates, this card is indispensable. From government services to healthcare, to opening a bank account or simply going through airport smart gates, the Emirates ID is your one-stop identification, authentication, and convenience instrument.

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What is Emirates ID?

The Emirates ID is issued and administered by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). It is an obligatory identification card with:

•  Cardholder's name and nationality.

•  Date of birth and photo.

•  A special 15-digit ID number.

•  A digital chip with biometric information (fingerprints, photo, signature).

Validity Period:

•  UAE Citizens: 5 or 10 years

•  UAE Residents (Expats): The same as residence visa (1–10 years)

•  GCC Nationals: Typically up to 5 years

Why is Emirates ID Important?

In contrast to other nations where passports or driver's licenses are the primary ID, the Emirates ID is the UAE's principal identification document. It is needed for:

•  Employment contracts and job applications

•  Opening bank accounts and obtaining loans

•  Health care and health insurance

•  Registering utilities such as DEWA or Etisalat/Du

•  Signing contracts and tenancy agreements

•  Passage through smart airport gates in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

In short, life in the UAE becomes almost impossible without an Emirates ID.

Benefits of Emirates ID

• Official Identity – Accepted everywhere without the need to carry a passport.

• Government Services – Mandatory for RTA, Emirates Post, medical care, and utilities.

• Banking & Telecom – Need to open an account, obtain credit cards, and purchase SIM cards.

• Travel Benefits –

• UAE nationals can travel to GCC nations through Emirates ID.

• UAE residents have visa-on-arrival rights in countries such as Georgia, Maldives, Seychelles, and Sri Lanka.

• Quicker immigration through smart gates at airports.

• Security & Protection – Enhanced biometric capabilities protect against fraud.

Emirates ID Application

1. For UAE Expatriates (Non-GCC Residents)

• Apply at an ICP service center or any typing center approved by ICP.

• Provide documents and undergo biometrics (fingerprinting, photograph).

• After your residence visa stamping, the card is issued within 5 working days.

• Pick it up from Emirates Post.

• Fee: AED 100 per year of validity + AED 70–150 service fees.

2. For UAE National

•  Register through the ICP website or typing center.

•  Take biometrics and follow the application online.

•  Pick up a card within 5 working days.

•  Cost: AED 100 per annum + charges for services.

3. For GCC Citizens Living in the UAE

•  Register through ICP or typing center.

•  Take biometrics and follow the status online.

•  Pick up a card within 90 days.

• Cost: AED 100 for 1 year (max 5 years) + service fees.

Renewal & Replacement

•  Renewal: Begin 30 days prior to expiration. Late renewal incurs penalties.

•  Replacement: Lost or damaged, submit through ICP and pay AED 300 + service  charges.

•  Penalties: AED 20/day (max AED 1,000) for late renewal.

Conclusion

The Emirates ID is more than a plastic card—it is the passport to life in the UAE. It ensures smooth access to government services, healthcare, banking, and even international travel benefits. Whether you’re a citizen, resident, or GCC national, keeping your Emirates ID valid is essential to avoid fines and disruptions.

At E-Startup, we make it easier by helping with Emirates ID applications, renewals, and visa services. We do the paperwork so you can spend your time creating your future in the UAE.