Emirates ID in Dubai: Application, Renewal & More [2025]
Living or working in Dubai? Your Emirates ID Dubai is an essential document for accessing a wide range of services. Our comprehensive guide for 2025 simplifies the processes for apply for Emirates ID Dubai, understand the Emirates ID requirements Dubai, and provides crucial information on how to renew Emirates ID Dubai, as well as what to do if your Dubai Emirates ID is lost Emirates ID Dubai or damaged Emirates ID Dubai. Stay informed and ensure your ID is always valid.

Your Emirates ID in Dubai: What It Is and Why It Matters
The Emirates ID is a crucial identity document for all citizens and residents in Dubai and across the UAE. Issued by the ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship), it serves as official identification and is essential for accessing a wide range of government and private sector services. From using e-services and passing through e-gates / smart gates at airports to conducting various transactions, having a valid Dubai Emirates ID is a legal requirement for daily life in the Emirates. Think of it as your digital key to numerous essential services and your primary form of identification within the country.
First-Time Application: How to Apply for Emirates ID in Dubai
If you are a new resident in Dubai and need to apply for Emirates ID Dubai for the first time, the process generally involves several steps. You will typically need to visit an ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) center or an authorized typing center in Dubai to initiate your Emirates ID application Dubai.
Here’s a general outline of the application process:
- Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents required for Emirates ID in Dubai, such as your original passport, a copy of your valid residence visa, and recent passport-sized photographs.
- Fill the Application Form: You will need to complete the Emirates ID application form Dubai, which is usually available at the typing center or can sometimes be downloaded from the ICA website.
- Submit Your Application: Submit the completed form and your documents at the typing center. They will then process your application and schedule an appointment for biometrics registration at an ICA center.
- Biometrics Registration: Visit the designated ICA center at your scheduled time for fingerprinting and facial scanning.
- Receive Your Emirates ID: Once your application is processed, you will receive an SMS notification to collect your Emirates ID card from the designated ICA center. The Emirates ID processing time Dubai can vary.
Keeping It Current: How to Renew Your Emirates ID in Dubai
Ensuring your Emirates ID remains valid is crucial for continued access to services in Dubai and the wider UAE. You can renew Emirates ID Dubai before its expiry date through several convenient methods, including how to renew Emirates ID online Dubai via the official ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) website or mobile application.
Here’s a general overview of the renewal process:
Check Your Expiry Date: Keep track of your Emirates ID expiry date to initiate renewal in a timely manner.
- Gather Required Documents: For renewal, you will typically need your existing Emirates ID card copy, your valid passport, and a copy of your valid residence visa. Additional documents might be required in specific cases.
- Choose Your Renewal Method:
- Online Renewal: Visit the ICA website or use their mobile application to complete the online Emirates ID renewal Dubai form and upload the required documents. You will then need to pay the cost of Emirates ID renewal Dubai online.
- In-Person Renewal: You can also visit an ICA center or an authorized typing center in Dubai to submit your renewal application and required documents. You will need to complete the necessary forms and pay the applicable fees.
- Biometrics Update (If required): In some cases, the ICA may require you to update your biometrics at an ICA center as part of the renewal process.
- Receive Your Renewed Emirates ID: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive notification to collect your new Emirates ID card from the designated ICA center or it may be delivered to your registered address.
Handling the Unexpected: Lost or Damaged Emirates ID in Dubai
Losing or damaging your Emirates ID in Dubai can be a stressful situation. However, the ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) has established a clear procedure for lost Emirates ID Dubai and for obtaining a replacement for damaged Emirates ID Dubai to ensure you can quickly regain your essential identification.
Here are the general steps to follow if your Emirates ID is lost or damaged:
- Report the Incident: Immediately report the loss or damage of your Emirates ID to the nearest ICA center or police station in Dubai. Obtaining a police report for a lost ID might be required in some cases.
- Apply for a Replacement: You will need to apply for a replacement Emirates ID at an ICA center or through their online services (ICA – website or app). You will need to provide identification documents, such as your passport and a copy of your residence visa. For a damaged ID, bring the damaged card with you.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the necessary application form for a replacement Emirates ID. This form is usually available at the ICA center or online.
- Pay the Applicable Fees: There will be fees associated with the replacement of a lost or damaged Emirates ID. You will need to pay these fees at the ICA center or online.
- Biometrics Update (If required): The ICA may require you to undergo biometrics registration again as part of the replacement process.
- Receive Your Replacement Emirates ID: Once your application is processed, you will receive notification to collect your new Emirates ID card from the designated ICA center.

What You’ll Need: Emirates ID Requirements in Dubai
Whether you are applying for a new Emirates ID in Dubai for the first time or need to renew your existing one, having the correct documents required for Emirates ID in Dubai is essential for a smooth process. The specific requirements may vary slightly depending on your residency status and the type of application (new or renewal).
General Documents Required:
- Original Passport: Your original, valid passport.
- Copy of Valid Residence Visa: A clear copy of your valid residence visa for Dubai or the wider UAE.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs that meet the ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) specifications.
- Emirates ID Card Copy (for Renewal/Replacement): If you are renewing your ID or applying for a replacement for a lost or damaged card, you will need to provide a copy of your existing Emirates ID card copy.
- Application Form: A completed Emirates ID application form Dubai, which is usually filled out at the typing center or online via the ICA website or app.
- Other Supporting Documents: Depending on your specific situation, the ICA may request additional documents. For instance, family book for UAE citizens, or proof of relationship for sponsored residents.
Always ensure that your documents are valid and meet the latest guidelines provided by the ICA to avoid any delays in your Emirates ID application or renewal.
Track Your Progress: Check Emirates ID Status Dubai
After you apply for Emirates ID Dubai or renew Emirates ID Dubai, it’s natural to want to stay informed about the progress of your application. The ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) provides convenient online services to check Emirates ID status Dubai.
Here’s how you can typically check the status of your Emirates ID application:
- Visit the Official ICA Website or App: Go to the official website of the ICA or use their mobile application.
- Navigate to the Status Check Section: Look for a section or service specifically dedicated to tracking the status of Emirates ID applications. This might be labeled as “Track Application Status,” “Check ID Status,” or similar.
- Enter Your Application Details: You will usually need to enter your application number (which you receive upon submission) or your passport number and other relevant details to retrieve your application status.
- View Your Status: The system will then display the current status of your Emirates ID application, indicating whether it is under process, approved, or ready for collection.
The Emirates ID processing time Dubai can vary depending on the volume of applications and other factors. Regularly checking your status online will help you stay updated and know when to expect your ID card. If you encounter any issues while checking your status, you can contact the ICA helpline for assistance.
The Costs Involved: Emirates ID Fees Dubai
When applying for a new Emirates ID in Dubai or renewing your existing one, it’s important to understand the associated costs. The Emirates ID fees Dubai is determined by the ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) and can vary depending on the validity period of the ID and other factors.
General Fee Structure:
- New Emirates ID Application: There is a specific fee for the first-time issuance of an Emirates ID. This fee typically covers the application processing and the issuance of the card for the standard validity period linked to your residence visa.
- Emirates ID Renewal Dubai: The cost of Emirates ID renewal Dubai is also a set fee, usually applicable for renewing the ID for its standard validity period. This fee is payable whether you renew online or in person.
- Replacement of Lost or Damaged Emirates ID: If you need a replacement for a lost Emirates ID Dubai or a damaged Emirates ID Dubai, there will be a specific replacement fee, which might be higher than the renewal fee.
- Urgent Processing (If Available): If you require urgent Emirates ID Dubai services, there may be additional charges for expedited processing.
It’s crucial to check the official ICA website or inquire at an authorized typing center for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the applicable Emirates ID fees Dubai to avoid any surprises during the application or renewal process.
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- Main Content Section 8: Your Questions Answered: FAQs About Emirates ID in Dubai
Your Questions Answered: FAQs About Emirates ID in Dubai
Find quick answers to common questions regarding Emirates ID Dubai:
Q: How to apply for Emirates ID in Dubai for the first time?
A: To apply for Emirates ID in Dubai for the first time, you typically need to visit an ICA (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) center or a registered typing center with your original passport, a copy of your residence visa, and photographs. You’ll need to fill out the Emirates ID application form Dubai and undergo biometrics registration.
Q: Where to apply for Emirates ID in Dubai?
A: You can apply for Emirates ID in Dubai at designated ICA centers and authorized typing centers located throughout the emirate. Check the ICA website for a list of approved centers.
Q: What are the documents required for Emirates ID in Dubai renewal?
A: For Emirates ID renewal Dubai, you generally need your existing Emirates ID card copy, your valid passport, and a copy of your valid residence visa.
Q: How to renew Emirates ID online Dubai?
A: You can renew Emirates ID online Dubai through the official ICA website or mobile application. You’ll need to upload the required documents and pay the cost of Emirates ID renewal Dubai online.
Q: What is the procedure for lost Emirates ID Dubai?
A: The procedure for lost Emirates ID Dubai involves immediately reporting the loss to the ICA or the police, and then applying for a replacement at an ICA center, providing your identification documents.
Q: What is the replacement for damaged Emirates ID Dubai process?
A: For a replacement for damaged Emirates ID Dubai, you need to visit an ICA center with your damaged ID and apply for a new one, providing your identification documents.
Q: What are the Emirates ID fees Dubai?
A: The Emirates ID fees Dubai vary depending on the type of application (new, renewal, replacement) and the validity period. Refer to the official ICA website for the current fee structure.
Q: How can I check Emirates ID status Dubai?
A: You can check Emirates ID status Dubai online through the official ICA website or mobile application by entering your application number or passport details.
Q: What is the Emirates ID processing time Dubai?
A: The Emirates ID processing time Dubai can vary, but you will usually receive an SMS notification when your card is ready for collection from the designated ICA center.
Q: Is there an urgent Emirates ID Dubai service? A: Yes, the ICA may offer an urgent Emirates ID Dubai processing service for an additional fee in certain cases. Check their website or inquire at a center for availability.