The United Arab Emirates has announced a major update to the Emirates ID renewal system, making the process easier and faster for citizens. The change, introduced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP), is part of the country’s Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme.
Under the new system, UAE citizens will only need to submit a renewal application and pay the required fees. The Emirates ID will then be automatically renewed, with no need to provide additional details such as address information or ID templates as in the past.
Validity will be determined by age: citizens aged 21 and under will receive a renewed ID valid for five years, while those 21 and older will receive a 10-year Emirates ID.
Previously, the process required multiple steps and supporting documents. The streamlined approach is expected to save time for citizens and reduce administrative work across government agencies.
The ICP noted that this change applies only to UAE citizens renewing their IDs. Residents and expatriates must continue to follow the existing procedures for Emirates ID renewals.
The reform follows a similar update to the UAE passport renewal system, also introduced by the ICP. Both measures are part of the UAE’s broader push to cut red tape and improve efficiency in government services.
While all residents must carry an Emirates ID to live and work in the country, Emirati citizenship remains limited to select categories. Foreigners who may be nominated for UAE nationality include investors, doctors, scientists, inventors, intellectuals, and creative professionals, as well as dependents of Emirati citizens.
The latest updates underscore the UAE’s commitment to modernizing public services, simplifying processes, and enhancing convenience for its citizens.
