How to get an e-version of your Emirates ID in the UAE
More than just a card, the Emirates ID serves as a legal ID and proof of residency for citizens and residents alike. It is issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP). While keeping the physical copy of the card with you is recommended, carrying a digital Emirates ID can save you a lot of hassle.
Why get a digital Emirates ID?
The Emirates ID card is a form of documentation packed with your biometric data such as photo, fingerprint and signature. This handy card also stores your details like name, date of birth, residency status and nationality. But if you forget to carry the physical card or it is lost, a digital Emirates ID can always save the day!
For more information, check the UAE Emirates ID official website page.
Let’s take a look at a few purposes that an ICA digital Emirates ID card serves:
- The electronic Emirates ID card stores your name, photo, signature, unique digital fingerprint (biometrics) and other personal details on a secure chip. This acts as a proof of identification.
- You can easily access government facilities like healthcare, education and employment services.
- Makes it easy to travel to other GCC countries without needing a visa.
- You must have a valid Emirates ID to apply for a driving licence.
- To open a bank account or avail of other financial services, you must have an Emirates ID card.
Now that you know the importance of this card, here’s how to get an e-Emirates ID card:
- UAE Pass app
- ICP mobile app or UAEICP
- QR Code
UAE Pass App
The UAE Pass is a national digital identifier for UAE residents and citizens. It allows the country’s residents, locals and visitors to access more than 5000 services by the ICP. It covers everything. You can use it to pay pending fines, renew a passport or download Emirates ID online.
How to download Emirates ID digital copy
The UAE Pass app is available on Google Play and Apple App Store. After downloading it from your preferred source, register via your Emirates ID number on the app. You will then be asked to confirm your identity via facial recognition.
After adding the requested documents:
- Select the category for Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security.
- Tap on the Emirates ID card
- Complete the face scan
- Download the digital Emirates ID
UAEICP Application
Like UAE Pass, you can download the UAEICP app from the Google Play Store or the Apple Store. If you are still wondering how to get an Emirates ID copy online, you will be happy to know that this time’s process is much simpler.
Here is how you can get your hands on an e-Emirates ID card:
- Just log in to the UAEICP app with your UAE Pass account
- On the home page, tap on the Emirates ID option
- Select your name and view your ID
- Download e-Emirates ID onto your phone for easy access
How to download Emirates ID soft copy: QR Code
Another way of answering ‘how to download e-Emirates ID’ is a QR code. You can generate a QR or Quick Response code from the UAEICP app. The code will contain all the information from your Emirates ID and can be used for transactions or processes requiring it. It’s a quick way to produce the necessary details when required.
- Access the Emirates ID QR Code option on the app’s home page
- For verification, select personal information or mobile number (UAE Unified or Emirates ID number).
- If you don’t have a registered number, select the Personal Information option and enter the following details (passport type, number and so on).
You will receive a QR code after you have successfully submitted your details. Anyone who wants to see the details can easily do so with a quick scan.
Apart from the mentioned apps, you can also acquire a digital Emirates ID from the official website of the ICP. The service works similarly.
Now you know how to get your electronic Emirates ID. However, please note that the digital copy should only be used temporarily until your physical ID is printed and delivered.
As a safety measure, know what to do if you lose your Emirates ID. Emirates ID status check online lets you know the expected delivery date for your card.
FAQs About Digital Emirates ID
WHAT IS THE ID USED FOR?
Emirates ID uses include everything from securing a home internet package to opening a bank account, registering for utilities and applying for a Dubai driving licence.
IS THE E-VERSION OF EMIRATES ID FREE?
Yes, the Emirates ID e-version is free on the mentioned mobile applications. The apps are available for both iOS and Android devices.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UAE RESIDENCE VISA AND EMIRATES ID?
A UAE residence visa is a permit that allows you to live in Dubai for years. The Emirates ID is the UAE Government-issued identity card for all citizens and residents in the country.
HOW CAN I CHANGE THE PHOTO IN MY EMIRATES ID?
An Emirates ID photo change is easy if you know what to do. You must first head to an ICP Customer Happiness Centre with the required documents. Is it about to expire? The process for renewing your Emirates ID is simple and can also be initiated at the above-mentioned centres.
HOW CAN I CHANGE THE MOBILE NUMBER ON MY ID?
You must link your mobile number to your Emirates ID to access government services. Go to the ICP Smart Services website to initiate the process. You can use the same service to perform a UAE labour card check.
This concludes our guide on how to obtain your Emirates ID e-copy. The process is simple and can be initiated free of charge from any mobile phone.
