The Emirates ID can be downloaded digitally through the UAE Pass app, which stores your official identity details in a secure government-verified format. To access it, open UAE Pass, sign in, navigate to Documents, and select your Emirates ID to view or save it. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) also provides access through its portal using UAE Pass login.
Do This Next
- Download the UAE Pass app from the App Store or Google Play if not installed
- Register or log in using your Emirates ID number and linked mobile number
- Navigate to Documents → Emirates ID → View to access your digital copy
Table of Contents
What Is a Digital Emirates ID
A digital Emirates ID is the official version of your physical identity card displayed electronically through government-approved platforms. It is not a screenshot or a scanned image — it is your identity data pulled directly from ICP records and displayed securely on your device.
The digital Emirates ID displays your full name, photograph, nationality, Emirates ID number, and card expiry date. These details are the same as those printed on your physical card.
A digital copy accessed through UAE Pass is legally accepted for many government and private services in the UAE, but some organisations — particularly banks and certain government counters — still require the physical card for formal compliance. Always confirm acceptance before relying on the digital version alone.
How to Download Emirates ID Online via UAE Pass
UAE Pass is the official digital identity platform of the UAE government, issued by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority. It is the primary channel for accessing a digital Emirates ID on a smartphone.
Step 1: Install and Register UAE Pass
- Download the UAE Pass app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)
- Open the app and select Register
- Enter your Emirates ID number and the UAE mobile number linked to your identity records — this must be the same number on file with ICP
- Complete the OTP verification sent to your mobile number
- Set up your PIN and, if prompted, complete a face scan for identity verification
A half-completed registration is the most common reason the Emirates ID does not appear in the documents section — complete all verification steps before proceeding.
Step 2: Access Your Emirates ID
- Open UAE Pass and sign in using your PIN, biometrics, or OTP
- Navigate to your Profile or Documents section
- Select Emirates ID from the list of available documents
- Tap View to display your digital Emirates ID on screen
- If a save or share option appears, save the file to a secure folder on your device — do not store it in an open photo gallery accessible to others
Pro Tip: The mobile number you use to register for UAE Pass must exactly match the number linked to your ICP records. If you changed your phone number after your last Emirates ID renewal, update it with ICP first — otherwise UAE Pass cannot verify your identity and your documents will not appear.
How to Access Emirates ID Through the ICP Portal
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security provides an alternative access route for residents who prefer the official ICP portal over the UAE Pass app.
- Visit icp.gov.ae in any browser
- Log in using your UAE Pass credentials when prompted — ICP uses UAE Pass as its authentication method
- Navigate to your profile or ID card services section
- If a downloadable file option is available for your account, save it to a secure location on your device
The ICP portal does not provide a standalone Emirates ID PDF download for all users — availability depends on your registration status and whether your card has been fully processed. If no download option appears, use the UAE Pass app method instead.
As of 2026, UAE Pass remains the most reliable channel for accessing the digital Emirates ID on a smartphone. The ICP Smart Services portal is better suited for status checks and renewal applications rather than document downloads.
If you need to check outstanding fees or your Emirates ID renewal status, the Emirates ID fees page covers the current renewal costs and processing timelines in full.
How to Check Emirates ID Status If the Digital Copy Is Not Showing
If your Emirates ID does not appear in UAE Pass after registration, your card may still be under production. The ICP portal displays the current processing stage.
Status stages shown on the ICP portal:
- Application received
- Under process
- Card printing
- Ready for delivery
The digital Emirates ID becomes available in UAE Pass only after the physical card has been fully processed and printed by ICP — it does not appear while the card is still under production. Check your status at icp.gov.ae before contacting support.
Four common reasons the digital ID does not appear after UAE Pass setup:
- Mobile number used for UAE Pass does not match ICP records
- Emirates ID card is still under printing
- UAE Pass registration was not fully completed (face scan or OTP skipped)
- Emirates ID data was updated recently (visa renewal, employer change, name correction) and the records have not yet synced
For a full overview of Emirates ID services including fine checks and benefits linked to the card, the visa guide hub covers all Emirates ID topics in one place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the digital Emirates ID everywhere in the UAE?
The digital Emirates ID accessed through UAE Pass is accepted by many government portals, online services, and some private sector organisations for identity verification. However, not all organisations accept the digital version — banks, certain government counters, and services requiring physical card scanning may still ask for the plastic card. Confirm with the specific organisation before relying on the digital copy.
How long does it take for the digital Emirates ID to appear in UAE Pass after renewal?
The digital Emirates ID typically appears in UAE Pass within a few days of the physical card being printed and processed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security. If you renewed recently and the card has not yet appeared, check your Emirates ID status on the ICP portal at icp.gov.ae to confirm the card has completed the printing stage.
Is the Emirates ID download the same as a PDF file?
Not always. The digital Emirates ID in UAE Pass is displayed within the secured app environment — it is your official identity data shown through a verified government system, not a freely downloadable PDF. Whether a save or export option is available depends on your UAE Pass account level and current ICP settings. If a file can be saved, treat it as a sensitive document and store it securely.
What should I do if UAE Pass is set up but my Emirates ID is missing?
Check that the mobile number registered on UAE Pass exactly matches the number linked to your ICP records. If they differ, update your contact details with ICP first. Also confirm that your UAE Pass registration is fully complete — OTP verification, PIN setup, and face scan where required. If all steps are complete and the card still does not appear, check your Emirates ID status on the ICP portal to confirm the card is not still under production.
Last verified: April 2026
Reviewed by: UAE Content Team
Source: Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), UAE Pass
