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Successfully Secure Your Emirates ID Hassle‑Free in Dubai, UAE

The Emirates ID is a mandatory identity card issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) to all UAE residents.  

Whether you are a new entrepreneur setting up with Meydan Free Zone or relocating to the UAE for work, your Emirates ID confirms your legal status and gives you access to government, banking, and telecom services.

This comprehensive guide outlines the complete Emirates ID application process in the UAE, including documentation, fees, biometric requirements, processing time, and renewal or replacement options.

Overview of the Emirates ID Application UAE Process

The Emirates ID application in the UAE is tied directly to your UAE residency visa.

Once your entry permit is issued, your ID application is automatically triggered as part of the visa process.

The Emirates ID serves as:

  • Your legal identification across the UAE​
  • A required document for opening bank accounts and utility connections​
  • Proof of residency for travel, lease agreements, and insurance​
  • A digital record for medical and employment services

Breakdown of How to Apply for an Emirates ID

When you set up your business with Meydan Free Zone, we don’t just help you get licensed — we guide you through every step of your visa and Emirates ID process. From opening your immigration file to getting your ID card in hand, our team is with you the whole way.

Here’s how it works:

  1. We initiate your residency visa​: As soon as your trade license is issued, we open your immigration file and start your visa process — including your entry permit and status change. It’s all handled digitally through our platform.
  2. We trigger your Emirates ID application​: Once your visa process is underway, your Emirates ID application is automatically created in the ICP system.
  3. We book your biometric appointment​: You’ll receive an SMS from ICP with your assigned appointment. Meydan Free Zone helps book and manage your biometric appointment at the nearest ICP (Customer Happiness Centre). We can also assist with VIP fast-track upgrades if you need your ID urgently.
  4. We track your application in real time​: Once your biometrics and medical test are complete, we follow up with immigration and ICP to ensure smooth processing. You’ll get updates from us and SMS alerts directly from the system.
  5. We help deliver or collect your Emirates ID​: Once your Emirates ID is ready, you’ll get an SMS notification. Most cards are delivered to your Emirates Post branch — but if you’ve selected VIP service or arranged for office delivery, we can receive it directly at Meydan Free Zone and notify you for collection or deliver it to you.

Documents and Emirates ID Requirements in Dubai

The standard Emirates ID requirements in Dubai for new applicants include

  • Valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)
  • UAE entry permit or status change confirmation
  • Passport-sized photo (white background)
  • Medical fitness certificate
  • Emirates ID application form (auto-generated in the ICP system)

For children or dependents, you may also need:

  • A birth certificate
  • Copies of the parents’ Emirates IDs and passports

We help you gather and submit all necessary documents — and if anything is missing or needs updating, our team will guide you through the process quickly and clearly.

Biometric Data Submission for an Emirates ID

The Emirates ID biometric data submission is a required in-person step for most new applicants and involves:

  • Fingerprint scan
  • Eye scan
  • Photograph (taken at the centre)
  • Signature capture

We help you book your appointment, confirm the location and timing, and guide you on what to bring. If you need your ID urgently, we can assist with VIP fast-track processing, which significantly reduces wait times.

Understanding Emirates ID Fees in the UAE

When it comes to the Emirates ID fees in the UAE, Meydan Free Zone offers dedicated assistance to make your Emirates ID and medical process effortless.

Here’s a breakdown of our current service fees:

  • AED 2,250 – Medical & Emirates ID Assistance
  • AED 2,000 – Medical Assistance Only
  • AED 750 – Emirates ID Assistance Only

This covers appointment booking, document handling, VIP upgrades (if selected), and direct coordination with service centres. Most applications are completed in as little as 2 business days with our support.

Expected Emirates ID Processing Time

With Meydan Free Zone’s end-to-end assistance, your Emirates ID processing time can be as little as 2 business days — including medical test coordination, biometric submission, and application follow-up.

How Emirates ID Collection Works in the UAE

Once your Emirates ID is printed, the ICP (Federal Authority) will notify you via SMS with collection details.​

If you’ve opted for our Emirates ID Assistance, we coordinate delivery directly to the Meydan Free Zone office or to your designated location — no lines, no missed messages.

Emirates ID Renewal Process for Business Owners

The Emirates ID renewal process must be completed before your ID expires, and Meydan Free Zone makes it easy to stay compliant without disruption.

Here’s how it works:

  1. We notify you in advance of your visa and ID expiry
  2. We help renew your trade licence and visa
  3. A new Emirates ID application is auto-triggered
  4. Biometric resubmission may be required (we’ll confirm and schedule it for you)
  5. Your new card is issued and collected just like before — and we’ll help manage the full cycle

Replacing a Lost Emirates ID in the UAE

If your ID is misplaced or damaged, you can request an Emirates ID lost card replacement through ICP.

Here’s what to do:

  1. Report the loss through the ICP portal or a registered typing centre
  2. Pay the replacement fee of AED 300 (government charge)
  3. Submit your passport copy, photo, and Emirates ID number
  4. Receive your new card within 7 business days

If your ID is tied to your Meydan Free Zone company, we’ll assist with updating your business records, licence documents, and re-issuing any linked files to ensure you stay compliant.

FAQs

1. What is an Emirates ID used for?​

An Emirates ID is the official ID card for UAE residents. It is required for banking, leasing, healthcare, telecom, travel, and government services.

2. How long does Emirates ID processing take?​

With Meydan Free Zone support, Emirates ID processing can take as little as 2 business days. Standard processing takes 5 to 7 working days after biometrics.

3. What is included in the Emirates ID biometric step?​

Biometrics include fingerprinting, eye scan, photo capture, and digital signature at an authorised ICP centre.

4. What documents are required for Emirates ID?​

You need a valid passport, UAE entry permit or visa, passport-sized photo, medical fitness certificate, and the auto-generated ID application form.

5. How much does the Emirates ID cost in the UAE?

Emirates ID assistance with Meydan Free Zone starts from AED 750. Full packages including medical and Emirates ID support are available for AED 2,250. Speak to one of our team members to get the most up-to-date breakdown of costs.

6. Can I fast-track my Emirates ID?​

Yes. VIP processing is available through Meydan Free Zone, with full assistance and a 2-day turnaround.

7. Where do I collect my Emirates ID?​

You will receive an SMS with collection details. Most Emirates ID cards are picked up at Emirates Post, or collected on your behalf if you use Meydan Free Zone’s services.

8. Does Meydan Free Zone help with Emirates ID?​

Yes. Meydan Free Zone handles your entire Emirates ID process, including booking, documents, VIP upgrades, and tracking.

9. How do I renew my Emirates ID?​

Renew your residency visa first. The Emirates ID renewal is then processed automatically, with biometrics if required.

10. What should I do if I lose my Emirates ID?​

Report it through the ICP portal and pay AED 300 for a replacement. Meydan Free Zone can assist with reissuance and updates to your business records.

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