When living in the UAE, the Emirates ID card is no longer optional. It is a core requirement for everyday life and almost every official process. Your Emirates ID number is used to verify access to essential services such as opening a bank account, registering for healthcare, signing employment contracts, and using government digital portals. According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), all UAE citizens and residents must hold a valid Emirates ID throughout their stay in the country. 

Because the card is so closely linked to visas, employment, and public services, any delay in application or renewal can quickly lead to disruptions. New residents, individuals changing visa status, or those renewing their residency are strongly advised to check their Emirates ID status early. Doing so helps avoid delays in receiving employment documents, accessing services, or completing mandatory government procedures. 

This guide explains everything you need to know about the Emirates ID in 2026, including what it is, who must apply, how the application and biometric process works, renewal timelines, fees, and the latest updates introduced by ICP. Whether you are applying for the first time or preparing for renewal, understanding the process clearly will help you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary interruptions. 

What is Emirates ID and why do you need it? 

The Emirates ID card is the legal identification card, which can be given to all residents and citizens of the United Arab Emirates. The Emirates ID mandated by the Federal Authority of Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security is required in the day-to-day life of the UAE, whether it is opening a bank account or utilizing a government and/or private service. 

The Emirates ID or the UAE Emirates ID or UAE ID card is a smart card with a secure chip which has personal and biometric data. The card includes an Emirates ID number or UAE ID number that is unique and the same card is used during the entire life of the residency even when the card must be refreshed or changed. 

Key benefits of Emirates ID: 

Fingerprint information and biometrics identification: 

The Emirates ID card is also featured with biometric verification. As part of the registration process, you will be fingerprinted and your photo taken to deter identity fraud and ensure safe access to services. For those living in Dubai, fingerprint bookings for the Emirates ID  are available at the accredited ICP centres. 

Digital verification and chip security: 

The chip is being considered as ‘embedded’ and allows secure authentication to the governmental systems. A digital identity verification is also used in many public services by using the Emirates ID number, without the need to present physical documents. 

Validity correlated to the visa length: 

In the case of the residents the validity of the Emirates ID is linked to the visa. Please note that the ID card must also be renewed if your visa is renewed. Citizens receive longer validity and expatriates are typically given one to three years. 

Multiple services access 

The Emirates ID services include healthcare registration services, labour contracts services, telecom services, banking services and digital government portals. It is also becoming more popular as an internet login service.  

Who is eligible to apply for Emirates ID in UAE? 

An Emirates ID card must be applied by all people who have the legal right to live in the  

• UAE citizens 

• Expatriate residents holding a valid UAE residence visa 

• Children sponsored by their parents, where residency is issued under parental sponsorship 

• Domestic employees sponsored under a valid residency visa 

For most newcomers, the Emirates ID application is initiated as part of the visa process. In many cases, the application is automatically triggered once medical tests are completed and the eVisa is processed and approved, reducing the need for a separate application step. 

Passport and visa details 

You will be required to have your original passport and a duplicate of your residence visa page. Visa approval documents are also possible in the case of first time applicants. 

Permit of entry or residence certificate. 

In case you are a newcomer to the UAE, the entry permit or the change of the visa status document will be demanded upon the application. 

Contact details of individual persons. 

The mobile number and email address are compulsory since the Emirates ID card status changes are received in the form of SMS and emails. 

Fingerprint ‍for Emirates ID Dubai & Other Emirates: 

Biometric data is a must.  

This means: 

• Fingerprint capture 

• Facial photograph 

• Digital signature 

Dubai residents who need to register fingerprints for their Emirates ID must get their appointment done at the specific ICP biometric centers. If you are a first-time applicant, you must go in person, but if you are a renewing customer, you can use your old biometric data if it's still valid. 

Emirates ID Cost, Fees & Price (2026): 

Understanding the cost of an Emirates ID helps residents plan their setup and renewal budgets more effectively. Emirates ID fees are typically aligned with the validity of the residence visa. 

Standard Emirates ID Fees: 

1-year validity: Approx. AED 170–200 

2-year validity: Approx. AED 270–300 

3-year validity: Approx. AED 370–400 

Such charges maybe applied: 

• Urgent processing 

• Replacement cards 

• Typing centre services 

The fees are usually in line with the visa ‍duration.

Key ‍Changes to the Emirates ID 2026 Renewal Process: 

• Citizens one-step renewal: Emirates ID renewal combined with passport renewal is a first for UAE citizens on the official ICP app or website, making it less of a hassle in terms of paperwork and time. 

• Automated renewal scheme (Taqdeer): The new scheme allows automatic renewal of passport and Emirates ID for senior citizens and people of determination in advance of expiry thus reducing the need for paperwork and centre visits. 

• Fully online personal information changes: Basically, changing details that don't really matter to the application like phone number or address can be done totally online through ICP smart services without a need for a centre ‍visit. 

The Bottom Line 

The Emirates ID card is more than just an identification document. It connects residents and citizens to essential services, protects personal data through biometric security, and supports smooth interaction with government and private platforms across the UAE. As procedures and digital services continue to evolve, it is important to keep an update on the application steps, renewal timelines, and status tracking becomes increasingly important.  

FAQs:  

1. My Emirates ID is lost or damaged, what must I do?  

You are to report the issue and request a replacement in the ICP portal. There are replacement fees depending on the reason.  

2. What is the Emirates ID number used for?  

The Emirates ID number is used for banking, healthcare, telecom registration, labour contracts, and government digital services.  

3. Can I check Emirates ID validity online?  

Yes. Emirates ID validity check can be done through ICP digital services using your ID number or application reference.  

4. Is fingerprint mandatory for Emirates ID?  

Yes. Biometric capture including fingerprint and facial scan is required for first time applicants and certain renewal cases.