The Emirates ID card is a mandatory identification document for all UAE nationals and residents. It is issued by the Emirates Identity Authority in line with Federal Decree No. 2 of 2004, which established the Population Registry System. This guide provides a step-by-step procedure for parents applying for an Emirates ID for their children under 15, including those with special needs.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Registration and ID Application
- Begin the process by registering at an accredited typing center or through the online E-Form available on the Emirates Identity Authority website.
- During this step, you will pay the applicable service fees, schedule an appointment at a registration center, and select how you wish to receive the ID card.
- Application Submission
- Visit one of the registration centers to have your application typed and printed.
- Notification and Collection
- Once your card is ready, you will receive a text message from the Emirates Identity Authority with details on when and where to collect it.
- For Newborns and Children with Special Needs
- Parents of newborns must visit an Emirates ID registration center to type and print the application.
- Parents of children with special needs must provide supporting documents such as a certified medical report, in addition to the standard requirements.
Required Documents
For All Children Under 15
- Social Security card (certificate)
- Original valid passport
- Original Family Book
- Birth certificate (original)
- One recent personal photo (4.5 x 3.5 cm) with a white or light-blue background
For Children Not Yet Registered in the System
- Extract of the unified number from the Department of Foreign Affairs
- Original birth certificate
- Family Book showing the child’s name
- ID cards of both parents (or at least one parent)
For Children with Special Needs
- Social Security card (certificate)
- Certified recent medical report from a competent authority
- Valid passport
- Original Family Book
- One recent personal photo (4.5 x 3.5 cm) with a white or light-blue background
Fees
- Card fees for UAE nationals with Social Insurance and under 15 years old: Free
- Standard issuance and renewal fees:
- UAE and GCC nationals (5 years): AED 100
- Residents (per year of residency): AED 100
- Other fees:
- Replacement for lost/damaged card: AED 300
- Data modification requiring new card: AED 150
- Mobile service per family/day: AED 1000
- Urgent service fee: AED 150
- Typing/application form: AED 70
- Delay fees: AED 20 per day (up to AED 1000 maximum)
Note: People of determination (special needs) and Social Security categories are exempt from standard fees, except for urgent and mobile services.
Validity
- ID cards for UAE nationals are valid for 5 years.
Processing Time
- After successful registration, you will receive an SMS notification once the card is ready for collection. The exact processing time may vary depending on demand and application accuracy.
Important Instructions for ID Card Holders
- Always carry your Emirates ID and present it when required by law.
- Report changes in personal details within 30 days.
- Report lost or damaged cards within 7 days and apply for a replacement.
- Do not tamper with or leave your ID card with any organization unless required by a legal authority.
- If you find someone else’s card, return it to the nearest Emirates ID center or police station.
Additional Information
- The Emirates ID card is highly secure, featuring nine security elements, ultraviolet ink, and an embedded smart chip that can store encrypted personal data.
- Each cardholder is assigned a unique 15-digit identification number used for all official and private sector transactions.
- The card helps prevent fraud, enables access to e-services, and serves as a personal portable database.
Office Locations & Contact
Head Office:
Mohamed Bin Zayed City, Mayzad Mall Tower 3, 7th Floor
P.O. Box: 47999, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Phone: +971 2 4955555 | Fax: +971 2 4955550
Email: [email protected]
Why This Document is Important
- Mandatory for all citizens and residents of the UAE
- Protects against identity theft and fraud
- Provides secure access to government and private services
- Used for verification in official transactions
READ MORE: How to Apply for a UAE Emirates ID Card For Nationals and Residents





