How to Apply for an Emirates ID (New Application & Renewal)
The Emirates ID is the official identity card for everyone who lives in the UAE. ICP issues the card. If you are a resident from another country, you apply for it together with your residence permit on one unified form. Dubai is different. Dubai uses GDRFA instead. The card stays valid for as long as your residence visa. Your 15-digit ID number stays the same for life, even when you renew the card.
At a glance
- Cost:
- From AED 300 (2-year card)
- Total time:
- Same-day application; delivery varies
- Steps:
- 6 steps
- Where to apply:
- icp.gov.ae
Last reviewed October 2026 against official sources. Re-checked annually · next review due October 2027.
The Steps
Follow these in order
Each card shows the phase, expected time, and any cost. Data checked against official UAE sources(October 2026).
0 of 6 steps
- Fill / Prepare Same day
Submit the application
You can apply on the ICP Smart Services website or app. You can also apply at an ICP Customer Happiness Centre or an authorised typing centre. You usually apply on the same unified form as the residence permit. Dubai is the exception. Dubai uses its own process.
Click to mark as done
- Go Same-day appointment
Complete fingerprints and signature
If you are aged 15 or over, you must give your fingerprints and your signature at an ICP service centre. Children under 15 do not need to give biometrics.
Click to mark as done
- Wait Result typically same/next day
Pass the medical fitness test
You can only get the card with a "Fit" medical result. The medical test is part of the residence process.
Click to mark as done
- Submit & Pay At application From AED 300 (2-year card)
Pay the fees
You can pay online or at the centre. Residents pay AED 100 for each year of residence validity. You also pay an AED 100 smart services fee. So a 2-year visa costs about AED 300 in total. Do you need the urgent Fawri service? It is only available in person, and it adds AED 150. A replacement card for a lost or damaged card costs AED 300, plus the AED 100 smart fee.
Click to mark as done
- Receive Replacement: 5 days
Receive the card
The card is sent to the address or collection point you chose. A replacement card takes about 5 days, per ICP.
Click to mark as done
- Follow Up With residence renewal Same as new issuance
Renew with your residence visa
You renew the card on the same unified form as your residence renewal. Dubai is the exception. The renewal fees are the same as for a new card. Tell ICP about any change in your details quickly. If you do not report a change, the fine is AED 20 per day, up to AED 1,000.
Click to mark as done
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Emirates ID the same as my residence visa?
No, they are not the same. But they are linked. Since 2022, the Emirates ID card is your proof of residence. It replaced the visa sticker in your passport. Your ID expires when your visa expires.
Do I keep the same ID number when I renew?
Yes. Your 15-digit ID number stays with you for life. u.ae says the identity number "sticks with its holder forever". The number is not cancelled if you leave the UAE. If you return later, you get a new card with the same number. The Emirates Identity Authority confirmed this, as reported by Gulf News.
What if I lose my card?
Apply for a replacement on ICP. It costs AED 300, plus an AED 100 smart fee. Do you need the urgent in-person service? It adds AED 150.
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