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New generation of Emirates IDs revealed

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship has launched the new Emirates ID

by Time Out Editors

The Emirates ID is getting an upgrade, and the new features have been revealed.

The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) has revealed the second generation of the identification card, with new features and greater longevity than the previous cards.

The change is part of the new generation of Emirati passports and national ID cards that will help increase the UAE’s use of advanced technology to develop population data.


There will be upgraded features included in the new card, including invisible data that can be read through the E-link System, advanced technical and technological characteristics including higher chip capacity and a non-touch data reading feature.

The new card will be higher quality, made with polycarbonate to create a longer lifespan that can exceed ten years. The consolidated 3D photo will have a laser print feature with an authenticated date of birth, and additional fields of identification.

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The authority will start printing the new card after the first stage of use with the new electronic version, but has not announced when the physical card will be introduced.

If your card has expired, or been lost or damaged, you will be one of the first to receive the new type of card. The digital copy is available on the ICA UAE Smart app, which can be downloaded for free from the Apple and Android stores.

There will be no changes to the fees for the application process or ID cards.

For more keep close to Time Out.

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