Lost, stolen, or damaged your Emirates ID? You can apply for a replacement within minutes using your smartphone through the official UAEICP app. This guide covers the complete process, required documents, fees, and delivery timelines.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has streamlined Emirates ID replacement into a straightforward digital process. Only UAE expatriates with active residency files can apply for replacement cards.
Step 1: Report the Incident at ICP Centre
Before starting your online application, you must physically report the loss, theft, or damage at the nearest ICP Customer Happiness Centre. This crucial step deactivates your old card in the system, preventing potential misuse.
Find your nearest ICP centre at icp.gov.ae/en/customer-happiness-centers. Centres operate across all emirates, offering accessible reporting locations for residents throughout the UAE.
What to Bring:
If your card is damaged, bring the damaged physical card with you. If lost or stolen, bring a copy of your Emirates ID if available. When you lack a copy, ICP staff can provide your ID number confirmation or retrieve a copy from their system.
This initial reporting requirement protects your identity. Once reported, the old card number becomes invalid in government databases, safeguarding you from identity theft or fraudulent use of your lost document.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
ICP requires specific documentation for Emirates ID replacement. Gathering these documents before visiting the centre streamlines the process.
Mandatory Documents:
- Original passport
- Valid passport copy
- Copy of residence visa
- Recent coloured passport-sized photo meeting ICP requirements
Optional Documents (Depending on Applicant Type):
- Copy of previous Emirates ID (front and back)
- Sponsor’s passport copy
- Father’s passport copy and Emirates ID (for dependents under father’s sponsorship)
- Original entry permit
- Birth certificate
- Disability certificate
ICP officials may request additional documents based on your specific residency type. Employment visa holders, family-sponsored residents, and investors face different documentation requirements reflecting their visa categories.
Photograph requirements follow strict specifications. Your Emirates ID serves as official government identification, so photo quality standards match international passport requirements.
Step 3: Apply for Emirates ID Replacement Online
The UAEICP app allows complete application submission from your mobile device. This digital process eliminates the need for multiple centre visits.
1. Download and Sign In
Download UAEICP from the App Store or Google Play. The app supports both iOS and Android devices with regular updates for improved functionality.
Sign in using UAE Pass for the fastest processing. UAE Pass provides single sign-on access to government services and automatically fills your personal information, reducing manual data entry errors.
Without UAE Pass, register using your email address to create an ICP account. This alternative method requires manual information entry but remains straightforward.
2. Search for the Service
Open the app menu and search for “Replace Emirates ID for Residents”. The search function helps locate services quickly within the app’s comprehensive service catalogue.
Tap Start Service to begin your application. The app guides you through each required section sequentially.
3. Fill in the Application
The application divides into several sections:
User Data: Pre-filled when using UAE Pass, including name, nationality, sponsor number, and passport details. Verify accuracy of auto-filled information.
Identification Information: Confirm details including Unified Number, Emirates ID number, and previous card expiry date. Select your replacement reason from the dropdown menu:
- Change of passport
- Defective card
- Lost or stolen
Beneficiary Information: Enter nationality, place of birth in English and Arabic, religion, marital status, qualification, profession, and work type. Work type categories include student, private sector, free zone, or government employment.
Signature Option: Choose whether to change the signature appearing on your new card. Selecting “yes” requires visiting an ICP centre after submitting your application for signature capture.
Passport Details: Add passport number, issue and expiry dates, and issuing authority. Ensure passport validity extends at least six months beyond your current date, as passport validity affects visa processes.
Residence and Contact Details: Provide UAE address, mobile number, and email. Use a mobile number you actively monitor, as ICP sends SMS notifications throughout the process.
Address Outside UAE (If Applicable): Include permanent country address and mobile number. This information assists with international communication if needed.
Delivery Address: Select collection from a courier office or delivery to your home or office address. Home delivery offers convenience but requires someone present to receive the card.
4. Upload Documents
Upload all required documents and your recent passport photograph. Follow ICP photo guidelines closely – incorrect photo specifications cause application delays.
Attach optional documents when applicable. Additional documentation strengthens applications and may prevent processing delays from missing information requests.
5. Review Application
Check all information meticulously before submitting. Errors in personal data, passport numbers, or contact details delay processing significantly. The review stage allows corrections before final submission.
6. Make the Payment
Pay using debit or credit card, or select the “pay later” option. Successful payment triggers application processing and generates your request number.
You receive the request number via email. Save this number – it’s essential for tracking your application status throughout the replacement process.
Step 4: Track Your Emirates ID Replacement
Monitor application progress through ICP’s online tracking system. Visit smartservices.icp.gov.ae and enter your request number in the Quick Search bar.
The system displays your application’s current stage, from document verification through card production to delivery preparation. Regular checking helps identify any issues requiring attention.
Processing times vary based on application volume and document verification requirements. Standard replacements typically process within 5-7 working days, though complex cases requiring additional verification may take longer.
Step 5: Emirates ID Delivery
Once your new card completes production, you receive SMS notification from Emirates Post or Zajel courier services. The message includes collection details or delivery scheduling information.
Home or office delivery requires coordination with the courier service. They contact you to arrange a convenient delivery time requiring someone present to receive and sign for the card.
Courier office collection allows flexible pickup during business hours. Bring identification and your request number when collecting your replacement Emirates ID.
Important Consideration: The replacement card carries the same expiry date as your lost or damaged card. If your original card was expiring in three months, the replacement also expires in three months. Plan ahead for renewal if your expiry date approaches.
Emirates ID Replacement Fees
The total cost for online Emirates ID replacement is AED 451.40, broken down as follows:
- AED 300: Emirates ID card issuance fee
- AED 29.40: E-service fees
- AED 122: ICP fees
Payment occurs during the online application process. The fee structure remains consistent regardless of replacement reason – lost, stolen, or damaged cards cost the same amount.
Compare this fee to other government services for perspective. UAE visa processes and residency permits carry varying costs based on visa type and duration.
What Happens to Your Old Emirates ID Number
Your Emirates ID number remains unchanged when replacing a lost or stolen card. The system issues a new physical card with your existing ID number, maintaining continuity across government databases.
This consistency proves beneficial – your ID number links to employment records, banking relationships, utility accounts, and government service histories. Changing numbers would require updating dozens of organisations about your new identifier.
The card’s security chip receives new encryption when replaced. This technical update prevents anyone finding your old card from accessing services, even if they somehow reactivate the deactivated card.
Preventing Future Emirates ID Loss
After replacement, consider protective measures:
Adding your Emirates ID to Apple Wallet creates a digital backup accessible on your iPhone. This convenient option means you carry ID access even if you forget your physical card.
Keep a secure photocopy of both sides of your Emirates ID at home. Store this separately from your physical card. If you lose your card again, having a copy simplifies the reporting process.
Photograph your Emirates ID and store the image in a secure cloud service. This provides accessible backup information from any device when needed.
Consider a cardholder or wallet specifically designed for ID protection. RFID-blocking wallets prevent unauthorised scanning of your card’s chip.
Travelling During Emirates ID Replacement
If you need to travel abroad whilst your replacement processes, your valid UAE residence visa permits international travel. UAE residents can travel even when Emirates ID renewal is processing, provided the residence visa remains valid.
Carry your application form copy and request number when travelling. Immigration officials may request proof of your replacement application if questions arise about your missing Emirates ID.
For re-entry to the UAE, your valid passport and residence visa suffice. Emirates ID primarily serves for domestic identification and services rather than immigration purposes.
When to Contact ICP
Contact ICP Customer Happiness Centre if:
- Your application remains “under review” for more than 10 working days
- You receive a request for additional documents but don’t understand requirements
- Your delivery SMS doesn’t arrive within the estimated timeframe after approval
- You need to update information submitted in your application
- You experience technical difficulties with the UAEICP app
ICP maintains customer service channels including phone support, email, and in-person assistance at Customer Happiness Centres. Choose the method matching your preference and urgency level.
FAQ: Emirates ID Replacement in UAE
How long does Emirates ID replacement take?
Standard processing takes 5-7 working days from application submission to delivery. Complex cases requiring additional verification may take longer. Track your application status online using your request number.
Can I apply for Emirates ID replacement online without visiting ICP?
No. You must first report the loss, theft, or damage at an ICP Customer Happiness Centre. After this mandatory visit, the remaining process completes entirely online through the UAEICP app.
What if I find my old Emirates ID after applying for replacement?
Contact ICP immediately. Your old card was deactivated when reported, so it no longer functions for official purposes. ICP will advise whether to continue with replacement or cancel the application.
How much does Emirates ID replacement cost?
The total fee is AED 451.40, including AED 300 card issuance, AED 122 ICP fees, and AED 29.40 e-service charges. Payment occurs during online application.
Will my Emirates ID number change with replacement?
No. Your Emirates ID number remains the same. Only the physical card changes, maintaining your existing ID number across all government databases and services.
Can I travel abroad whilst waiting for my replacement Emirates ID?
Yes. Your valid UAE residence visa permits international travel even without Emirates ID. Carry your application form copy and request number when travelling.
What photo requirements apply for Emirates ID replacement?
Photos must be recent, coloured, passport-sized with white background, meeting ICP specifications. Incorrect photos cause application delays, so verify requirements before uploading.
Do I need UAE Pass to apply for Emirates ID replacement?
No, but UAE Pass is recommended. It auto-fills your information, reducing errors and speeding application completion. You can alternatively register using email address.
What happens if my application gets rejected?
ICP sends notification explaining rejection reasons. Common causes include incomplete documents, incorrect information, or photo quality issues. Correct the problems and resubmit your application.
Can I collect my replacement Emirates ID on behalf of someone else?
Generally no. The cardholder must collect their Emirates ID personally with proper identification. Exceptions may apply for dependents or specific circumstances – contact ICP for guidance.
Further Reading
Explore these related articles about Emirates ID and UAE residency services:
- Emirates ID in UAE: 8 Essential Benefits for Residents – Complete Guide 2024
- Add Emirates ID to Apple Wallet: 3 Easy Steps | 2024 UAE Guide
- UAE Visa Guide 2025: Check Entry Requirements for 80+ Countries
- UAE Return Permit Guide: Re-enter After Extended Stays Abroad (2024)
- UAE Visit Visa Online Application Guide: Complete 4-Step Process 2024
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