Dubai Police Clearance Certificate: How to Apply, Fees and Documents
Need a good conduct certificate for a new job or a visa abroad? Here are the Dubai Police fees by category, the documents you need and how to apply online.
By Vadim Kouznetsov, published
If a new employer, an embassy or an immigration authority has asked you for a police clearance certificate, Dubai Police lets you apply online through its website or app. The certificate, also called a Good Conduct Certificate, confirms your criminal record status in the UAE, according to Gulf News.
The service is open to UAE citizens, residents and eligible applicants abroad, including former residents who have already left the country.
Why you might need a Dubai police clearance certificate
Requests usually come from:
- Employers: as part of background checks, especially for roles involving security or sensitive information.
- Immigration authorities: some countries want certificates from every country you live in or have lived in.
- Visa applications: depending on the destination and visa type.
- Licensing bodies: before approving a job, a professional licence or another official application.
Check requirements with the organisation asking. If you are lining up a move, sort this early alongside your job search on jobxdubai.com/jobs. Once an offer arrives, know your rights: Can a UAE Company Withdraw Your Job Offer Letter? Legal Rights Explained.
Fees for a Dubai police clearance certificate
Fees depend on your applicant category, according to Dubai Police:
| Applicant | Fee |
|---|---|
| UAE citizens | AED 100 |
| UAE residents | AED 200 |
| Applicants outside the UAE | AED 300 (about $88) |
| Knowledge and Innovation fees | AED 20 |
| Extra charge for applying in person at a service centre | AED 100 |
For applicants outside the UAE, the standard total is AED 320, including the Knowledge and Innovation fees. Fees are non-refundable, Dubai Police says.
Documents former UAE residents need
If you are applying from outside the UAE, prepare:
- a recent personal photograph
- a copy of your passport
- a copy of your previous UAE residence visa
You can apply with a valid or expired Emirates ID. Without an Emirates ID, or fingerprints on record, you may need extra verification.
How to apply online, step by step
On the Dubai Police website (www.dubaipolice.gov.ae) or app:
- Open the Police Clearance Certificate service.
- Choose your category: citizen, resident, outside the UAE or visitor.
- Enter your Emirates ID number and email address.
- Select the purpose and the entity asking for it, such as a private company or government authority.
- Choose the certificate language.
- Enter the one-time password (OTP) sent to the mobile linked to your Emirates ID.
- Complete the application, pay online and keep your reference number.
Fingerprints matter for some applicants:
- Outside the UAE without a ten-print fingerprint record: submit a fingerprint document certified by a UAE Embassy.
- In the UAE without an Emirates ID: visit an authorised service centre for fingerprinting during official working hours. Dubai Police lists Al Qusais, Ports, Al Rashidiya and Jebel Ali police stations.
Anyone applying from abroad must have entered the UAE before, and all applicants must meet Dubai Police's criminal record and security clearance conditions.
Getting your certificate and how long it lasts
Some applicants receive the certificate the same day after payment; others wait longer. The digital certificate is sent to your registered email address, and you can also retrieve it through "Application Status" using your reference number.
The certificate is valid for three months from the date it is issued, so time your application carefully. If you are worried about any open case or restriction, our guide Dubai Travel Ban Check 2026: How to Verify and Lift Restrictions Online explains how to check first.
Key takeaway
You can apply for a Dubai Police clearance certificate online from inside or outside the UAE. Residents pay AED 200, applicants abroad AED 320 in total, and the certificate lasts three months, so apply close to when you need it.
FAQ
Can I get a Dubai police clearance certificate after leaving the UAE?
Yes, even with an expired Emirates ID. You will need a recent photo, a passport copy and a copy of your previous UAE residence visa.
How much does a Dubai good conduct certificate cost?
Dubai Police lists AED 100 for citizens, AED 200 for residents and AED 300 for applicants outside the UAE, plus AED 20 Knowledge and Innovation fees. Applying in person adds AED 100.
How long does it take?
Sometimes the same day after payment, sometimes longer.
How long is the certificate valid?
Three months from the date of issue, though some organisations want a recently issued one.
Do I need an Emirates ID to apply?
A valid or expired one works. If you are in the UAE without one, you will need fingerprinting at an authorised service centre.
Further reading
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