Your Emirates ID is your key to banking, healthcare, travel, and government services in the UAE. If it’s expired or expiring soon, here’s everything you need to renew it in 2026 — fees, steps, fines, and exemptions.
Emirates ID renewal in 2026
You can renew your Emirates ID up to six months before it expires or within 30 days after expiry without penalty. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) sends an SMS reminder when your card is due for renewal.
The renewal process differs for UAE citizens and expatriates. For expats, the Emirates ID is tied to the UAE residency visa — you must renew your visa first (or simultaneously) before your new ID card can be issued.
For a broader overview of the card itself, see our Emirates ID guide.
Emirates ID renewal grace period and fines
ICP allows a 30-day grace period after your Emirates ID expires. If you miss this window, a late fine of AED 20 per day kicks in, capped at AED 1,000.
You can start the renewal process up to six months before expiry to avoid any risk of fines. The earlier you begin, the smoother the process.
Emirates ID renewal fees 2026
As of May 2026, ICP charges a base fee of AED 100 per year of validity for all categories. Additional service fees apply depending on the channel used.
| Category | Validity | Base Fee |
|---|---|---|
| UAE citizens | 5 years | AED 100 |
| UAE citizens | 10 years | AED 200 |
| Expats (residents) | Per year of visa | AED 100/year |
| GCC nationals | 5 years | AED 100 |
Additional charges include a smart application fee of AED 100 (for online/app renewals) and typing center fees of AED 30–70 if you use an authorized center. The urgent service (Fawri) costs an extra AED 150 on top of the standard fees.
ICP accepts credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay for all payments.
Emirates ID renewal requirements
The documents you need depend on your category.
For expats
- Valid original passport
- Original valid residency visa or entry permit
- Old Emirates ID card
- Passport-sized photo (4.5 x 3.5 cm, white background)
- Completed renewal application (online or at a typing center)
For dependents under 15, you also need the original birth certificate or a parent’s passport/Emirates ID, plus the sponsor’s passport and visa for newborns.
For UAE citizens
- Personal photo (4.5 x 3.5 cm, white background)
- Agency certificate if a third party is submitting on your behalf
- Expired passport must be renewed before applying for ID renewal
For GCC nationals
- Valid original passport and GCC ID card
- Personal photo (4.5 x 3.5 cm, white background)
- Proof of UAE residency (trade license, employment certificate, study enrollment, or property ownership)
For GCC nationals under 15, a parent’s relevant documents serve as proof of residency.
How to renew Emirates ID online via ICP
The fastest way to renew is through the ICP Smart Services portal or the UAEICP app (available on Google Play and App Store). Here’s how:
- Log in using your UAE Pass or ICP account credentials.
- Select “Identity Card Renewal” from the services menu.
- Review and update your personal details. Upload required documents if the system cannot retrieve them automatically.
- Pay the renewal fees online.
- If you are 15 or older, visit an ICP Customer Happiness Center to complete biometrics (fingerprint and signature) if required.
- Receive your new card by courier (standard service) or collect it from an ICP center (urgent service).
For expats, ensure your residence visa is renewed through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) before or alongside the ID renewal. In all emirates except Dubai, the residence and ID renewal are submitted together through a unified form.
You can renew remotely from outside the UAE using the UAEICP app. The system pulls your existing photo from ICP records, though you can update it if needed.
Emirates ID renewal processing time
Standard processing takes up to 5 working days. Your new card is delivered by authorized courier to your registered address.
The urgent (Fawri) service costs AED 150 extra and requires an in-person visit to an ICP Customer Happiness Center. Cards are collected on-site.
How to check Emirates ID renewal status
Track your application on the ICP ID Card Status page using your application number (PRAN) or Emirates ID number.
You can also check via the UAEICP app under “My Transactions.” For a detailed walkthrough, see our Emirates ID status check guide.
Emirates ID late renewal fine exemptions
Certain individuals are exempt from late renewal fines:
- Individuals who left the UAE over 3 months ago and whose ID expired after departure (automatic exemption)
- Deportees or individuals whose passports are held in connection with legal proceedings
- Individuals who had not been issued an ID before obtaining Emirati citizenship
- Bedridden individuals or those with a contagious disease or disability (with a medical certificate from UAE authorities)
- Diplomatic or consular staff and their dependents
- Seniors aged 70+ who are unable to visit service centers (with age proof)
- Emiratis under the social security system and their dependents (with an official certificate)
- Delays caused by a system or computer error
To apply for a fine exemption, start the exemption request on the ICP website after initiating your renewal. You will receive an SMS with your application number, followed by an approval or rejection within 48 hours.
Emirates ID replacement for lost or damaged cards
If your Emirates ID is lost, stolen, or damaged, report it to ICP within 7 days and apply for a replacement through the ICP replacement service. The replacement card is issued with the same validity as your original.
Replacement fees start at AED 300, plus applicable service charges. If your card was stolen, file a police report before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Emirates ID before it expires?
Yes. ICP allows you to renew up to six months before the expiry date.
What is the fine for late Emirates ID renewal?
AED 20 per day after the 30-day grace period, up to a maximum of AED 1,000.
Can I renew my Emirates ID from outside the UAE?
Yes. You can renew remotely through the UAEICP app. Biometrics may need to be completed at an ICP center upon your return if required.
How long does Emirates ID renewal take?
Standard processing takes up to 5 working days. The urgent (Fawri) service is faster but costs an additional AED 150.
Do I need to renew my visa before renewing my Emirates ID?
If you are an expat, yes. Your Emirates ID validity is tied to your residence visa. Renew the visa first or submit both together through the unified form (available in all emirates except Dubai).
What if I lost my Emirates ID?
Report the loss to ICP within 7 days and apply for a replacement. Fees start at AED 300. If stolen, file a police report first.
Sources
- ICP — Identity Card Renewal Service
- UAE Government — Emirates ID
- ICP — ID Card Status Check
- ICP — Replacement for Lost/Damaged ID Card
Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.
