UAE: Rollout of Updated Emirate ID Cards Begins for New and Renewal Applications

Last Updated on February 23, 2023

 

Key Points

  • The UAE is currently printing electronic versions of new or renewed Emirates ID Cards.
  • The electronic version of the Emirates ID Card will act as a current ID Card until the new versions of the Emirates ID Cards are printed.

Overview

The UAE has launched the first phase of its initiative to issue an updated version of the Emirates ID Card.

What are the Changes? 

Several months ago, the UAE announced an initiative to update the current version of the Emirates IDs card with a more modern version. The rollout of this initiative has begun. Currently, applicants for an Emirates ID Card are receiving an electronic version of the Emirates ID Card until the new versions are ready for printing.

The electronic version of the ID Card has QR code technologies that makes it easier and faster to read. Foreign nationals can present the electronic version in lieu of a printed version of the card.

The electronic ID Cards are a temporary measure until the newly printed cards are readily available and printed.

As foreign nationals renew their current expiring ID Cards, the UAE is pulling old version of the Emirates ID Card out of circulation and will be replacing them.

Looking Ahead

The process to update Emirates ID Cards and Passports with newer and more modern versions has begun. New applications or renewals for Emirates ID Cards will be privy to the new version of the card.

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Content in this publication is not intended as legal advice, nor should it be relied on as such. For additional information on the issues discussed, consult an Envoy-affiliated attorney or another qualified professional.