This guide is for reference. Fees and document requirements change frequently — verify the latest from the ICP official site.
What Emirates ID is
The national ID card issued to every foreign resident of the United Arab Emirates. Required for nearly every formal process: bank accounts, mobile SIMs, driver's licenses, healthcare, utility hookups, school registration, and so on.
What you need
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Entry visa stamp
- Employment visa documents (from your employer)
- Passport-size photos
Procedure
- Apply through the ICP app (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) or website
- Biometric enrollment at a designated typing centre or ICP centre
- Pay the fee
- SMS notification once approved — collect at the centre or have it delivered
How long it takes
Typically 5–10 business days. An express service (Fawri) is available for urgent cases at a higher fee.