Getting Your Emirates ID in the UAE

Document Checklist

جواز السفر Passport Where to get: Your country of citizenshipRequired: At least 3 months remaining validity ICP captures the passport details at the biometric appointment. Your residence-visa stamp inside the passport links the Emirates ID issuance to your visa-validity period.
صورة شخصية Personal Photo Standard: ICAO-compliant — biometric photograph with neutral backgroundRequired: Captured at the ICP Customer Happiness Centre as part of the biometric appointment, or submitted via the ICP Smart App for ICAO-conforming digital uploads Per ICP service-card terms, the personal photograph must comply with the standards approved by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
إثبات الإقامة في الإمارات Proof of UAE residence For employees: Employment contract or certificate from a competent authority — ministry, government or semi-government entity, free-zone authority, Sheikh's office, or pension letterFor investors: Valid trade, industrial, or agricultural licence, OR property-purchase contract from an approved developerFor property owners: Proof of property ownership, government-housing certificate, or final inheritance ruling for heirsFor students: Certificate from a competent authority confirming admission or ongoing study ICP's required-documents list is category-specific. Most expat residents fall under the employee category; the employer typically uploads documentation through institutional linkage.