The Emirates ID is a mandatory identity card for citizens and residents of the United Arab Emirates. It is issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, more commonly known as the ICA.
Although the card is physical and must be carried at all times by residents and citizens, the ICA recently announced a new electronic/digital version of the Emirates ID that applicants can use while waiting for their physical card to arrive. Note that obtaining the Emirates ID is the final step in completing the residency process in the UAE.
So, how can you obtain an electronic copy of the Emirates ID in the UAE?
If you are waiting for the physical version of your Emirates ID but urgently need a digital copy, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) has introduced a process for downloading an electronic version. Here is the procedure to follow:- First step: download the "ICA UAE Smart" app from the Play Store and App Store or from the ICA website;
- If you are a new user, register and create an account with the required credentials, including:
- your Emirates ID number (the number assigned to you when your fingerprints were taken),
- your passport number;
- your passport expiration date;
- and a valid email address;
- Once registration for the electronic version of the Emirates ID is complete, you will receive an email to confirm and verify your account.
- You can also use your UAE Pass login details during the electronic identity card registration process;
- Click on the "Emirates ID" section to find the QR code that will allow you to create the UAE electronic identity card in the "document wallet section" of the app.
