Quick Answer
The Emirates ID is the mandatory identity card issued by ICP to every UAE resident. It carries a unique 15-digit number and is required for almost every government service, banking transaction, and tenancy contract.
Every UAE resident — citizen, expat employee, dependent, or investor — must hold a valid Emirates ID. It is the single most important identity document in the country and is requested in countless contexts: opening a bank account, signing an Ejari tenancy, paying for healthcare, accessing a government service portal.
Emirates IDs are issued by ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security). The standard validity is tied to your residency visa: 2 or 3 years for most residents, 5 or 10 years for Golden Visa holders. Renewal must be initiated within 30 days of expiry.
Cost ranges from AED 100–370 per ID depending on validity, plus typing-centre fees. Lost or damaged cards trigger AED 300+ replacement fees. ZETUP PRO tracks every Emirates ID in your company and renews proactively to avoid the AED 1,000 late-renewal fine that kicks in after 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Emirates ID?
The Emirates ID is the mandatory identity card issued by ICP to every UAE resident. It carries a unique 15-digit number and is required for almost every government service, banking transaction, and tenancy contract.
How much does an Emirates ID cost?
Roughly AED 100–370 depending on validity, plus typing-centre fees. A lost or damaged card triggers replacement fees of AED 300 or more.
When must I renew my Emirates ID?
Renewal must be initiated within 30 days of expiry. Missing that window triggers a late-renewal fine (around AED 1,000).
Who issues the Emirates ID?
ICP — the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security.
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