How it works
- 1
Documents
You
- 2
Reviewed by MARIO E.G.S.H AI
MARIO E.G.S.H AI
- 3
Typed & submitted to ICP
Runner at ICP
- 4
Biometrics (if required)
You
- 5
Card issued
ICP
Documents required
Passport (valid at least 3 months)
copyAt least 3 monthsRecent ICAO-standard photo (renewal: different from the current card photo)
copyResidence (1-year) or entry permit under process
copy
Conditions, time and validity
- Applicants aged 15 and over give fingerprints and signature at an ICP service centre; the application is cancelled if biometrics are not completed in time.
- Renewal is possible when less than six months remain (non-UAE nationals).
- The head of family, guardian, legal representative or the adult applicant may apply.
- In Dubai the Emirates ID is a separate ICP application: ICP's combined residence-and-ID form is used in all emirates except Dubai.
- ICP completes the card for a resident only after the needed approvals and a medical examination with a 'fit' result.
- u.ae: a late fee of AED 20 per day (at most AED 1,000) is charged when the card is renewed more than one month after it expired.
- Processing time
- ICP: 5 days. Standard cards are delivered by ICP's authorised courier; an urgent request is started only at an ICP centre and collected there.
- Validity of the result
- Same as the residence (1 year).
- Where it is applied for
- ICP smart services (website/app), ICP customer happiness centres (in Dubai: Al Barsha, Al Rashidiya), authorised typing centres. In Dubai the ID is applied for separately from the GDRFA residence.
Steps at the authority
- The centre types the Emirates ID application with ICP (in Dubai it is separate from the residence application) and pays the ICP fees.
- Applicants 15+ book and attend biometrics at an ICP centre.
- ICP prints the card and the courier delivers it.
Tips that save you a trip
- Keep your phone number updated with ICP: the biometrics appointment and courier come by SMS.
Common reasons for rejection or delay
- Photo not ICAO-compliant or same as the old card.
- Biometrics not completed within the set period.
Questions and answers
Why does my Emirates ID cost more for a longer residence?
ICP charges AED 100 for each year of residence plus a fixed AED 100 smart service fee.
Checked by the MARIO E.G.S.H team on 2026-10-08. Rules can change at any time; our consultant confirms the details for your case.
Legal basis
Federal Law No. 9 of 2006 on the Population Register and Identity Card System (as amended), cited by ICP on its ID card holders' duties page.
Related services
Golden Visa, 10 years (property owners)
Complete 10-year property Golden Visa package: Taskeen, GDRFA residency, medical and Emirates ID, for property worth AED 2M or more. We verify eligibility, prepare and submit.
Golden Visa, 5 years
Applies for a 5-year Golden Visa residence for eligible applicants through GDRFA Dubai (Amer).
Golden Visa for a newborn, 10 years
Obtains a 10-year Golden Visa for your newborn child through GDRFA Dubai (Amer).
Golden Visa for a newborn, 5 years
Obtains a 5-year Golden Visa for your newborn child through GDRFA Dubai (Amer).

