Moving to the UAE or starting a new life here comes with a few essential steps—and one of the most important is getting your Emirates ID. It’s more than just an identification card. It’s your official proof of identity and is mandatory for almost everything—from opening a bank account to signing a rental agreement or getting a mobile connection.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to get an Emirates ID in the UAE, how much it costs, what documents you need, and why it’s such a crucial part of daily life in the Emirates.
What is an Emirates ID?
The Emirates ID is an official identity card issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP)—formerly known as FAIC. Every UAE resident, citizen, and GCC national must have one.
It contains your:
- Full name
- Nationality
- Gender
- Photo
- Date of birth
- ID number
- Card number
- Biometric data (fingerprints and photo)
- Digital chip with encrypted information
Your UAE identity card serves as your legal identity within the country. You’ll need it for visa renewals, job applications, health insurance, and more.
Whether you’re an expat, investor, student, or business owner, getting your Emirates ID in the UAE is one of the first things you’ll do after your residency visa process begins.
Step-by-Step Process to Get an Emirates ID
Let’s walk through the full process to apply and receive your Emirates ID:
Step 1 – Entry Permit or Residency Visa
Before applying, you must have a valid UAE residence visa or entry permit. The ID is linked to your visa validity, so this is step one.
You can apply for a visa through:
- Your employer
- A business setup company
- As an investor
- Through family sponsorship
- Or as a property owner
Step 2 – Emirates ID Application
Once your visa is approved or being processed, you must fill out the Emirates ID application form.
You can apply:
- Online via the ICP (https://icp.gov.ae)
- Through a typing center licensed by the ICP
- Or at a medical fitness center (many centers offer the ID form alongside medical tests)
The application includes your:
- Passport number
- Emirates visa number
- Unified number (UID)
- Personal details
Once submitted, you’ll receive an SMS with the Application Number for tracking.
Step 3 – Medical Fitness Test
All UAE residents over 18 must undergo a medical fitness exam. It includes:
- Blood test
- Chest X-ray
You’ll need your passport, visa copy, and application receipt for this test.
The medical report is digitally linked to your visa and Emirates ID file.
Step 4 – Biometric Registration
Once your medical test is cleared, you’ll be asked to visit an ICP service center for biometric scanning. First-time applicants must:
- Provide fingerprints
- Have their photo taken
- Validate identity in person
Biometric appointments are fast and take around 15–20 minutes.
Step 5 – Visa Stamping & Approval
Once the visa is stamped in your passport, the Emirates ID process continues. The ICP will begin producing your Emirates ID card, linked to your visa.
You’ll get SMS updates or email notifications during each stage.
Step 6 – Emirates ID Delivery
Once the card is printed, it’s delivered to an Emirates Post branch. You’ll receive a message when it’s ready for pickup.
Bring your original passport and tracking number to collect it.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The Emirates ID is issued under the authority of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
According to UAE Federal Law No. 9 of 2006, the Emirates ID is:
- Mandatory for all citizens and residents
- Used for all government and commercial transactions
- Linked to biometric identity data
- Serves as a digital identity in the UAE
Failure to carry or renew your Emirates ID can result in:
- Fines of AED 20 per day (up to AED 1,000)
- Delays in official processes
- Immigration or licensing issues
Your UAE Emirates ID must also be updated in case of:
- Change in residence
- New visa issuance
- Name or nationality change
- Lost or damaged cards
Cost of Getting an Emirates ID
The Emirates ID cost depends on your visa type and duration. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Emirates ID Fee (Residents and Expats)
| Visa Validity | Emirates ID Fee (AED) |
| 1 year | AED 170 – AED 200 |
| 2 years | AED 270 – AED 300 |
| 3 years | AED 370 – AED 400 |
Additional Fees
- Typing center charges: AED 30 – AED 70
- Urgent processing (VIP service): AED 150 – AED 300 extra
- Medical test (linked): AED 320 – AED 750
- Card replacement (lost or damaged): AED 300
Some free zones or employers may cover these fees, but others require applicants to pay directly.
Note: Costs can vary slightly between Emirates and service centers.
Timeline for Receiving Your Emirates ID
On average, the Emirates ID processing time takes:
- 5 to 7 working days after completing medical and biometrics
- Faster if you choose VIP or urgent service
Emirates ID Tracking
You can track your card status using:
- The ICP website
- The UAEICP mobile app
- Your SMS tracking number
Stages include:
- Application submitted
- Medical approved
- Biometrics completed
- ID printing
- ID dispatched
- Ready for collection
Importance of Emirates ID
Your Emirates ID is essential for almost every activity in the UAE. Here’s why it matters:
Identification
It serves as your primary ID for:
- Police checks
- Government offices
- Emirates Post
- Healthcare and insurance
Residency and Legal Status
It shows your visa validity, Emirates ID number, and UAE residency status.
Banking and Finance
Required for:
- Opening bank accounts
- Credit card or loan applications
- Mobile payments and wallets (Apple Pay, Samsung Pay)
Housing and Utilities
Needed for:
- Signing Ejari (rental contracts)
- Setting up DEWA (electricity and water)
- Connecting internet or gas
Healthcare Access
Mandatory to:
- Apply for health insurance
- Access public hospitals or clinics
Driving License
You’ll need your Emirates ID to:
- Apply or renew your UAE driving license
- Register or insure a vehicle
Conclusion
If you’re moving to the UAE or already residing here, securing your Emirates ID is one of the most important steps in becoming part of daily life. It’s your official identity, your gateway to services, and a legal requirement linked to your visa and residency.
The Emirates ID application process is smooth, fast, and fully digitized—but it’s important to follow every step and stay updated on fees and renewals.
Whether you’re applying through an employer, a business setup firm, or as an investor, make sure to get it done right. For stress-free setup, visa processing, and ID support, it’s always best to work with a professional Business Setup Company in Dubai, UAE that can assist you at every stage of the process.
FAQs
How long is the Emirates ID valid?
The validity depends on your visa:
- 1 year for freelancers or property visas
- 2 or 3 years for employees or family visas
- 5 or 10 years for Golden Visa holders
Can I apply for Emirates ID without a visa?
No. You need a valid UAE residence visa to apply for an Emirates ID. It’s a visa-linked ID card.
What happens if I lose my Emirates ID?
You must report it to ICP, apply for a replacement, and pay AED 300 in card replacement fees.
Is Emirates ID the same as a residency visa?
No. The Emirates ID is proof of identity, while your residency visa is stamped in your passport. Both are required to live legally in the UAE.
Do children need Emirates ID?
Yes. All UAE residents, including newborns, must have an Emirates ID. Children’s IDs don’t require fingerprints until a certain age.
