Emirates ID

Emirates ID

An Emirates ID is an identity card that is issued in the UAE by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship. All residents and citizens of the UAE are mandated by the law to apply for one and carry it with them at all times.

What can I use the Emirates ID for?

The Emirates ID can be used:

  • As a document to pass immigration through the eGates and smart gates at several airports.
  • As a travel document for citizens of the UAE to travel within GCC countries.
  • To get the services of the government.
  • To vote in the elections of the Federal National Council

What are the features of the Emirates ID?

The Emirates ID comprises components that provide the highest level of security and accuracy. These components are:

  • Smart Card
  • Fingerprint biometric
  • Public key infrastructure(authentication certificates and digital signatures)

The Identification Number

The identity card has an identification number. This identification number sticks with the holder forever and can help the holder access all governmental services and some services from non-governmental and private entities. The identification number is characterised by its sole and un-repeated number. It includes 15 digits.

The Electronic Chip

The electronic chip contains the personal data of the holder and can be read by machines built for this purpose to verify the holder’s details. The data could be encrypted and only updatable by the authorised authorities. This ensures the confidentiality of the data. The chip could store up to 32,000 letters of information.

The identity card also features nine security features making falsification of the card difficult and state of the art technology in the field of smart cards. This includes UV ink, line drawing and accurate letters.

How do I get an Emirates ID?

To get an Emirates ID, the applicant is required to fill the e-Form at an officially recognised typing centre or via the online form. This form is available on the website of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship. An SMS that comprises information about the time and the place to register will follow the application. Afterwards, the applicant is required to proceed to the registration centre stated in the SMS to complete the process. To learn about the application process, the needed documents, and the fees to be paid, visit the website of the FAIC.

How do I renew an Emirates ID?

How do I renew an Emirates ID?

If you have lost or damaged your Emirates ID card or suspect it has been stolen you must request a new one from the Federal Authority for Citizenship and Identity as soon as possible. You are required to:

  • Report the incident
  • Apply for an ID card replacement
  • Pay the fees
  • Collect your new ID card

How do I update the details on my Emirates ID card?

You are required to first report any change in your details of the card to the ICA within one month from the date of change according to FAIC.  To modify any details related to a valid existing ID card. You are to visit one of the ICA centres with your original passport and the Emirates identity card as the details of an existing ID card cannot be updated.

How do I cancel my Emirates ID?

People with residence visas who intend to cancel it for the purpose of leaving the country finally are to give their ID cards to the respective General Directorate for Residency and Foreigners Affairs who will then hand it over to Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship which had issued the card.