Your Emirates ID is your key to life in the UAE and renewing it before it expires is a legal necessity. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire Emirates ID renewal process in the UAE, including online steps, required documents, associated fees, and how to check your application status.
Key Takeaways
- How to Renew: Primarily online via the ICP website or app.
- Cost: Starts at AED 100 for 1-year validity.
- Processing Time: Typically, 5-10 working days.
- Best Practice: Start the renewal process at least 30 days before expiry to avoid fines (AED 20/day).
- Need Help? Shuraa provides hassle-free Emirates ID renewal in Dubai and across the UAE.
How to Renew Your Emirates ID: A Step-by-Step Guide
Renewing your Emirates ID is a straightforward process. Here are the two main ways:
Option 1: Renew Emirates ID Online (Recommended)
You can renew your ID from the comfort of your home through the official Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) channels.
- Visit the ICP Portal: Go to the official ICP website or use the ICP UAE smart app.
- Log In: Use your UAE Pass or your ICP account credentials.
- Find the Service: Navigate to “Services” > “Emirates ID Services” > “Renew Emirates ID”.
- Apply & Pay: Fill in the application form, upload the required documents (see below), and pay the Emirates ID renewal fees online.
- Track Application: You will receive an application number to track the status.
- Receive Your ID: Once ready, your new Emirates ID will be delivered to your registered address via Emirates Post, or you can collect it from a designated post office.
Option 2: Renew Through an Accredited Typing Center
Visit any government-authorized typing center with your original documents. They will handle the application process for a small service fee.
Documents Required for Emirates ID Renewal
The paperwork for Emirates ID Renewal in Dubai differs for UAE citizens, GCC nationals, and expatriates. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Applicant Type | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Expatriates | – Original Passport – Valid Residency Visa – Old Emirates ID – Passport-sized Photograph (white background) |
| UAE Citizens | – Original Passport – Family Book |
| GCC Nationals | – Original Passport – Valid GCC National ID – Proof of UAE Residency |
New to the process? Learn more about how to get an Emirates ID in the UAE.
Emirates ID Renewal Fees and Processing Time 2025
Renewal Fees:
The cost depends on the validity period of your ID.
| Validity Period | Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
| 1 Year | 100 |
| 2 Years | 200 |
| 3 Years | 300 |
Note: There may be additional service charges if applied through a typing center or for delivery.
Processing Time:
The standard Emirates ID renewal processing time is between 5 to 10 working days from the date of application approval and biometric submission (if required).
Is a Medical Test Required for Emirates ID Renewal?
For expatriates, the Emirates ID renewal is directly linked to your residency visa renewal. A medical fitness test is a mandatory part of the residency renewal process for most adult expats. You must complete and pass this test before your Emirates ID application can be finalized.
- Who needs it? All expatriates renewing their residency, with enhanced testing for those in specific sectors (e.g., domestic workers, food handlers, salon staff).
- Who doesn’t? UAE citizens and GCC nationals are not required to take a medical test for ID renewal.
How to Renew Emirates ID from Outside the UAE
If your Emirates ID expires while you are abroad, you can still initiate the renewal process online via the ICP portal, provided your residency visa is still valid. You will need your passport and visa details. However, if biometrics are required, you must be physically present in the UAE to complete the process. It is highly recommended to renew your ID before traveling to avoid complications.
How to Check Your Emirates ID Renewal Status
- Go to the ICP Website or open the ICP app.
- Navigate to “Check Application Status”.
- Enter your Application Number (PRAN) or Emirates ID Number.
- Click “Search” to see your current status (e.g., Under Review, Printed, Shipped).
For a detailed guide, see our post on how to check your UAE Emirates ID status.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Renewal
Don’t let simple errors delay your Emirates ID renewal. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
Timing & Deadline Mistakes
- Waiting until expiry: Starting late triggers AED 20/day fines (up to AED 1,000) and risks service disruptions.
- Ignoring application status: Not tracking your renewal can cause you to miss issues or collection deadlines.
- How to avoid: Set a reminder 45 days before expiry and check status regularly via ICP portal.
Documentation Errors
- Incomplete documents: Missing or expired documents lead to immediate rejection and delays.
- Outdated personal information: Not updating passport changes or other details causes data mismatches.
- Incorrect photo specifications: Using casual photos or wrong sizes gets applications rejected.
- How to avoid: Use our documents checklist above and verify all details before submitting.
Required Procedures
- Skipping the medical test: Expatriates renewing residency cannot complete the process without this.
- Delaying collection: Not picking up your new ID creates service gaps affecting banking and government access.
- How to avoid: Complete medical tests early and collect your new ID promptly when notified via SMS.
Smart Renewal Tip: Starting the process 45 days before expiry gives you ample time to fix any issues that might arise.
Why Choose Shuraa for Your Emirates ID Renewal?
Let our experts manage your Emirates ID renewal in Dubai and across the UAE, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
- Zero Errors: Our experts verify all documents to prevent rejections.
- Time-Saving: We handle the entire process on your behalf.
- Expert Guidance: Get clear answers and support for complex situations.
Contact Shuraa today for a hassle-free Emirates ID renewal in Dubai and across the UAE!
- Call: +971 4 408 1900
- WhatsApp: +971 50 777 5554
- Email: info@shuraa.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Emirates ID?
The Emirates ID is a mandatory smart ID card for all UAE citizens and residents, issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). It serves as your official identity proof and acts as your unified residency document, replacing the need for a physical visa sticker in your passport. The card contains your personal information and biometric data, providing access to government services, healthcare, banking, and other essential functions in the UAE.
2. Who needs to renew their Emirates ID?
All UAE residents, including expats, citizens, and GCC nationals, must renew their Emirates ID before it expires. Renewal is mandatory even if your visa is still valid.
3. What happens if I don’t renew my Emirates ID on time?
Failing to renew your Emirates ID on time results in daily fines of AED 20, accumulating up to AED 1,000. You may also encounter difficulties accessing government services, banking, and renewing your visa.
4. When should I start the renewal process?
It’s recommended to start renewing your Emirates ID 30 days before the expiry date. Renewing late can result in fines of AED 20 per day, up to a maximum of AED 1,000.
5. What documents are required for renewing an Emirates ID?
The documents differ slightly based on your status:
- Expats: Original passport, valid residency visa, old Emirates ID, personal photo (4.5 x 3.5 cm), and sometimes a medical test report.
- UAE Citizens & GCC Nationals: Original Emirates ID, valid passport or national ID, and a passport-sized photo.
6. Do I need to undergo a medical test to renew my Emirates ID?
Only expatriates renewing their residency visa may be required to undergo a medical fitness test, depending on their age and visa type. UAE citizens typically do not need a medical test.
7. How can I renew my Emirates ID in the UAE?
You can renew your Emirates ID through:
- ICP Website or App: Fill in your details online, pay the fee, and schedule biometrics if required.
- Authorised Typing Centres: Submit documents in person and pay the fee.
For hassle-free assistance, Shuraa handles the entire process for residents and businesses in Dubai.
8. How much does it cost to renew an Emirates ID?
The cost depends on the validity period:
- AED 100 for a 1-year renewal
- AED 200 for 2-year renewal
- AED 300 for 3-year renewal
Additional fines may apply if the renewal is delayed.
9. How long does it take to receive a renewed Emirates ID?
Typically, it takes 5-10 working days for the card to be processed and delivered after a successful application and biometrics (if required).
10. Can I check the status of my Emirates ID renewal?
Yes. You can track your application on the ICP website or mobile app using your Emirates ID number, passport number, or application reference number.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for general guidance only and may change due to updates in government policies or regulations.
