Emirates ID renewal is a routine yet essential process for every UAE national and resident, as the card is required for everything from visa validity and banking to renting a home and accessing government services. In 2026, the renewal process remains largely digital, but it still follows a clear sequence tied closely to residency status.
In this guide, learn about:
- Emirates ID renewal: Step-by-step process (2026)
- Emirates ID renewal: Who should do it and when
- Required documents
- Emirates ID renewal fees in 2026
- Processing time
- Common mistakes to avoid
- What to do if your Emirates ID has expired
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Emirates ID renewal: Step-by-step process (2026)
Renewing your Emirates ID follows a structured process managed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security. While the steps are mostly the same for everyone, expats must align their application with visa renewal.
Step 1: Check your Emirates ID expiry date
Your Emirates ID expiry date is printed on the front of the card and also visible on the ICP website or mobile app. Renewal is recommended 30 days before expiry to avoid fines or service interruptions.
For UAE nationals, Emirates ID validity usually ranges from five to ten years. For expats, validity is directly linked to the residency visa duration, which is typically one to three years.
Step 2: Renew or update your residency visa (for expats)
Emirates ID renewal is automatically linked to residency visa status for expats. If your visa has expired or is under cancellation, the Emirates ID renewal application will be rejected.
Visa renewal must be completed first in cases such as job changes, sponsor changes, family visa renewals, or dependent sponsorship updates. Once the visa is renewed, the Emirates ID renewal can proceed without delays.
Step 3: Submit Emirates ID renewal application
Applications can be submitted through the ICP website, ICP mobile app, or authorised typing centres. Many residents also complete applications at the Amer service centres in Dubai, which provide end-to-end government services under one roof.
You will be required to confirm personal details such as full name, nationality, passport number, visa information, and contact number. At this stage, applicants can choose the Emirates ID validity period that matches their visa.
Step 4: Pay Emirates ID renewal fees
Fees depend on residency status and chosen validity period. As of 2026, standard fees are charged per year of validity, with additional charges for typing centres and courier delivery.
UAE nationals generally pay a lower flat fee, while expats pay per year of validity. Optional urgent processing is available at a higher cost. Payments can be made online using debit cards, credit cards, or e-dirham.
Residents who qualify for faster issuance may opt for the 24-hour Emirates ID Fawri service, subject to eligibility and additional charges.
Step 5: Biometrics appointment (if required)
Biometrics are mandatory for first-time applicants and residents whose fingerprints or facial data are not already recorded. If your biometrics are on file and unchanged, this step may be skipped.
Appointments are held at ICA service centres. Carry your original passport and residency visa during the visit. Children under 15 are generally exempt from biometric collection.
Step 6: Track application status
Once submitted, the application status can be tracked online through ICP using the application number. Status updates usually move from “submitted” to “approved” and then “card printed”.
Delays can occur if documents are incomplete or biometric appointments are missed.
Step 7: Receive your Emirates ID
After approval, Emirates ID cards are delivered via courier or can be collected from designated post offices. Delivery typically takes 5 to 7 working days under standard processing.
If delivery is delayed beyond the estimated timeframe, residents can raise a request through ICP support channels.
Emirates ID renewal: Who should do it and when
Emirates ID renewal applies to UAE nationals, expatriate residents, and sponsored dependents. Children with residency visas also require Emirates ID cards.
A grace period of 30 days after expiry is generally allowed. After this, fines apply at AED 20 per day, capped annually. Keeping an Emirates ID active is essential to accessing services such as banking, healthcare, and tenancy registration, all of which rely on the practical benefits of holding a valid Emirates ID.
Required documents for Emirates ID renewal
Document requirements vary by category but remain minimal in 2026.
- UAE nationals require a valid passport and family book.
- Expat residents need a valid passport, a renewed residency visa, and a recent photograph if requested.
- Children under 15 require a passport, visa, and birth certificate.
- GCC nationals residing in the UAE may require proof of residence or employment.
A clear understanding of Emirates ID documentation requirements helps prevent rejections during submission.
Emirates ID renewal fees in 2026
Fees are charged per year of validity for expats and dependents. UAE nationals generally pay a nominal fee of AED 100.
Additional charges may apply for typing centres, courier delivery, and urgent processing. Opting for longer validity periods can reduce administrative hassle, especially for long-term residents.
Processing time for Emirates ID renewal
Standard processing takes 5 to 7 working days after approval. Urgent services such as Fawri can significantly reduce this timeline for eligible applicants.
Delays often occur due to pending biometrics, mismatched visa data, or incorrect mobile numbers. Ensuring your contact details are current, including updating your registered Emirates ID mobile number, helps avoid missed notifications.
Common mistakes to avoid during Emirates ID renewal
Applying before completing visa renewal is one of the most common errors among expats. Incorrect personal details, especially spelling mismatches with passport data, can also cause delays.
Missing biometric appointments or submitting non-compliant photographs may result in application rejection. Always review details carefully before final submission.
What to do if your Emirates ID has expired
If your Emirates ID expires, renewal should be completed immediately within the grace period to avoid daily fines. Renewal after expiry follows the same process, but penalties may apply.
An expired Emirates ID can affect tenancy registration, utility access, and even property transactions.
Key takeaways
Emirates ID renewal in 2026 remains a streamlined digital process when completed on time and in the correct sequence. Renewing your visa first, submitting accurate information, and tracking application status help avoid penalties and service disruptions. Staying aware of renewal timelines and choosing the right processing option can reduce delays, while updated contact details ensure important notifications are not missed.
FAQs
Yes. Emirates ID renewal can be completed online through the ICP website or mobile app.
Yes, as long as your residency visa is valid. Emirates ID renewal does not restrict travel.
A grace period applies, but fines accrue after it ends. Renewal should be completed immediately.
Collection rules depend on courier policies, but authorised collection may be allowed with proper identification.
Yes. A valid Emirates ID is required for tenancy contracts, Ejari registration, and accessing most rental-related services across the UAE.
