The Emirates ID is a national identification card issued to every UAE citizen and resident.  It includes personal information about a person, like their complete name, birthdate, country, and a distinct identification number. Furthermore, included in the Emirates ID are biometric elements, such as an eye scan and fingerprints. Whether expatriates or Emiratis, all Dubai residents must have this ID for a range of services, including opening a bank account, registering for healthcare, and even occasionally for public transit.

The Emirates ID is a crucial identity document for all residents in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and its importance has only grown over time. From the Emirates ID application process for Dubai residents to its benefits, Emirates ID fees for Dubai residents, this guide will give a thorough explanation of the Emirates ID for Dubai residents.

Emirates ID Application Process for Dubai Residents

For Dubai residents, the Emirates ID process consists of many important phases:

  • Eligibility Check: Making sure you qualify to seek an Emirates ID comes first.  This covers every UAE resident, regardless of their employment status, retired, working or in school.  The applicant has to be a UAE legal resident with a current visa.
  • Documents Required: The Emirates ID requirements for Dubai residents require proof of residence, a UAE residence visa, and a current passport.  A medical fitness certificate may also be needed, particularly for foreigners and those seeking some types of visas, such as work visas.
  • Application Submission: Applications for the Emirates ID can be sent online or in person at an approved typing facility.  The most often used and practical approach is the online one.  You will have to register under the Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA), complete your personal information, and send in the necessary documentation.
  • Biometrics Appointment: After submission of your application, you will be invited to arrange a biometrics appointment.  This consists of submitting your eye scan and fingerprints at one of the assigned centres.
  • Processing: The Emirates Identity Authority will handle your application after your biometrics are submitted.  Depending on the quality of your paperwork and the time required to arrange your biometrics, this can take several weeks.
  • Receiving Your ID: After the processing of your application, you will be informed that your Emirates ID is ready for pickup.  You can pick it up at a specified place, or your registered address will get the ID delivered.

Emirates ID Fees for Dubai Residents

The type of residency and the length for which the card is issued will affect the Emirates ID fees for Dubai residents.  Usually, the fees are:

  • For new applicants: For a 1- to 3-year validity period, the Emirates ID costs typically AED 100 to AED 300 for new candidates.
  • For renewals: Depending on the validity period of the card, the renewal cost of an Emirates ID usually ranges between AED150 and AED200.
  • Additional Fees: There can be extra fees for faster processing or other services.

 It is noteworthy that the cost usually has nothing to do with visa or residency fees.  Check the most recent rates on the Emirates Identity Authority website since the fees for the Emirates ID could vary often.

Golden Visa Process for Dubai Residents

The UAE government launched the Golden Visa program to grant long-term residency for particular groups of expats, including investors, businesspeople, highly qualified professionals, and top students.  Offering a 5- to 10-year renewable visa for qualified individuals, the Golden Visa process for Dubai residents differs somewhat from the usual residency visa process.

Dubai citizens must satisfy particular requirements, like a minimum investment level, extraordinary professional ability, or contribution to the growth of the UAE in particular areas, to qualify for a Golden Visa.  The application passes via UAE immigration and visa processes; those who get the Golden Visa will be qualified for an Emirates ID for their stay.

Difference Between Golden Visa and Emirates ID

Although Dubai residents value both the Golden Visa and the Emirates ID, they have different uses:

  1. Golden Visa: Designed for particular groups of people (investors, skilled professionals, etc.), the Golden Visa is a long-term resident visa program that offers UAE permanent status.
  2. Emirates ID: For all UAE citizens, the Emirates ID is a required identity card including biometric data and personal information.  Accessing government services, healthcare, and more depends on this card.

 The Golden Visa is essentially a residency permit; the Emirates ID is an obligatory identity card for UAE citizens, independent of their visa status.

The Role of a Visa Consultant in Getting an Emirate ID

Getting an Emirates ID or applying for a Golden Visa can be difficult, and managing their procedures requires great attention.  Here, a visa consultant can be quite helpful.  A top visa consultant in Dubai guarantees that all records are in order, assists Dubai residents with paperwork, and provides direction throughout the application process.  They can also assist with any problems, such as visa renewals, conflicts, or delays that develop during the application.

Selecting a trustworthy and expert visa adviser can help Dubai citizens greatly streamline the Emirates ID application procedure and guarantee effective handling of all facets of the application.

Benefits of the Emirates ID

 Being a resident of Dubai and having an Emirates ID has many advantages.

  • Ease of Access to Government Services: The Emirates ID makes simple access to government services in Dubai possible for anything from paying fines to registering for education to visiting hospitals.
  • Identity Verification: The Emirates ID is the official, safe form of identification used in the United Arab Emirates.  It gets rid of the necessity for carrying several identity papers.
  •  Banking: You must create a bank account in Dubai using your Emirates ID, hence, this document is crucial for financial services.
  • Security: Biometric data included in the Emirates ID gives citizens extra protection and makes forging challenging.

 FAQs

Who is eligible to apply for the Emirates ID?

Regardless of nationality, every UAE resident needs an Emirates ID. 

How long does it take to receive the Emirates ID?

Usually, it takes 7–10 working days to get your Emirates ID after you have applied and finished the biometrics process.

Can I apply for the Emirates ID online?

 Yes, either approved typing centres or the Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA) website will let you apply for the Emirates ID.

Is the Emirates ID valid for travel?

No, the Emirates ID serves UAE residents and identity needs.  Travel internationally calls for a passport.

Can I renew my Emirates ID online?

Yes, you may renew your Emirates ID online via the Emirates Identity Authority website or smartphone app.

Conclusion

For any Dubai resident, the Emirates ID is a must-have document offering simple access to government services, identity evidence, and many other advantages.  Knowing the procedure is essential whether you are a long-term resident renewing your ID or a new resident applying for the first time.  If you satisfy the required Emirates ID requirements for Dubai residents and proceed as advised, the Emirates ID application process for Dubai residents is simple.  

Moreover, the Golden Visa process for Dubai residents creates additional prospects and eligibility for the Emirates ID for individuals investigating long-term residence choices. Seeking advice from a professional visa consultant will always help to guarantee an easy process and the success of your Emirates ID application.