Digital Emirates ID: Four Free Ways to Get It While Your Card Is Lost, Damaged or Being Renewed

In this guide, we will walk you through four ways to get a digital Emirates ID.

You can access a digital Emirates ID free of charge in four ways: Apple Wallet, the UAE Pass app, the UAEICP app or a temporary QR code, while your lost, damaged or expiring card is replaced. Few documents are used as often in the UAE as your Emirates ID. It is your primary proof of residency and identity, and residents are required to carry it at all times. So when the card is lost, misplaced or away for renewal, it helps to know that your phone can step in.

Digital Emirates ID at a Glance

• Cost: free of charge
• Apple Wallet: Apple devices only, through the UAEICP app
• UAE Pass app: available on all devices
• UAEICP app: Apple and Android, with a PDF you can save for offline use
• QR code: a temporary option if your card has expired or is still being processed

First Steps if Your Emirates ID Is Lost

If you lose your Emirates ID, report it immediately to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and start the replacement process. While you wait for the new card, a digital Emirates ID is useful when you apply for services online or when your physical ID is temporarily unavailable.

1. Add Your Digital Emirates ID to Apple Wallet (Apple Devices Only)

The ICP lets Apple users store their Emirates ID directly in Apple Wallet.

• Download the official UAEICP app and sign in with the UAE Pass app
• Select "Emirates ID" and tap your name to see your ID
• Select "Add to Apple Wallet"
• Follow the instructions, and the card will appear in your digital wallet

This gives you quick, secure access to your digital Emirates ID whenever you need it.

2. Get Your Digital Emirates ID Through the UAE Pass App (All Devices)

UAE Pass is the national digital identity system that lets residents log in to government platforms and access thousands of online services. It works on both Apple and Android devices.

• Download the UAE Pass app and log in with your UAE Pass credentials
• Go to "Add documents" and find the Emirates ID option under the "Personal" section
• Tap "Request"
• After a few minutes, your Emirates ID appears in the "Documents" section of the app

3. Use the UAEICP App to View and Download Your Digital Emirates ID (Apple and Android)

The UAEICP app lets you view and download a digital copy of your Emirates ID.

• Download and open the UAEICP app
• Log in with your UAE Pass account
• Select "Emirates ID" on the homepage
• Tap your name to view your digital Emirates ID

You can also download a PDF version for offline access. On any smartphone, you can save the PDF to your device, which is useful when you need to upload or attach it directly from your phone. It gives you a secure copy that works even without an internet connection.

4. Generate a QR Code for Temporary Digital Emirates ID Access

If your Emirates ID has expired or is still being processed, you can generate a Quick Response (QR) code through the UAEICP app. It lets you temporarily submit your ID for verification during transactions or government services.

• Open the UAEICP app and tap "Emirates ID QR Code" on the home screen
• Choose your verification method. With the mobile number option, the report says to enter your Emirates ID or unified number. With the personal information option, provide your nationality, passport type, passport number, date of birth and sponsor number (enter "0" if you have no dependents)
• Submit your information
• The system generates a QR code containing your Emirates ID details, and you can also see your Emirates ID number, unified number and expiry date below it

Government departments and organisations that require your Emirates ID can scan the code. It is a temporary solution while you wait for your physical card.

Which Digital Emirates ID Option Suits You?

• You use an iPhone and want your card in Apple Wallet: option 1
• You want one option that works on every device: option 2, the UAE Pass app
• You need a PDF to upload or to use offline: option 3, the UAEICP app
• Your card has expired or is still being processed: option 4, the QR code

Tips for Using Your Digital Emirates ID

• Report a lost card straight away, because the digital copy does not replace the replacement process
• Keep your UAE Pass login handy, because three of the four options use it
• Treat your digital Emirates ID and QR code as private documents, and share them only with organisations that need them (this is our own advice, not part of the report)
• Check with the organisation first if you are unsure whether it accepts a digital copy, because the report says only that government departments and organisations requiring your Emirates ID can scan the QR code

New to the UAE or starting a job? Our guide to the UAE work permit explains who handles your Emirates ID card when you are hired. For more on working in the UAE, see our guide to jobs in Dubai.

Digital Emirates ID FAQs

Is the digital Emirates ID free?

Yes. The report says you can access a digital version free of charge while you wait for your new card.

Can I get a digital Emirates ID on Android?

Yes. The UAE Pass app and the UAEICP app are available on both Apple and Android. Apple Wallet is for Apple devices only.

Can I use a digital Emirates ID offline?

Yes. You can download a PDF version from the UAEICP app and save it on your device for offline access.

What if my Emirates ID has expired or is still being processed?

Generate a temporary QR code through the UAEICP app, which government departments or organisations can scan for verification.

Conclusion: Keep a Digital Emirates ID Ready

A digital Emirates ID keeps essential services within reach when your physical card is lost, damaged or being renewed. Choose the option that fits your phone and your situation, set it up before you need it and report any lost card to the ICP straight away. For official guidance, visit the UAE government portal.