Renew Your Emirates ID in 1 Step: A Guide for UAE Citizens

andreaj59
Sep 10, 2025
3 min read

For every Emirati, the Emirates ID is more than just an identification card, it’s a vital document that connects citizens to essential services, travel, healthcare, and everyday transactions in the UAE. Traditionally, renewing or replacing this card involved several procedures, but now, there’s a significant change: you can renew your Emirates ID in 1 step.

This transformation, introduced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP), reflects the UAE’s commitment to simplifying government services and enhancing citizen experience.

What Does “1-Step Renewal” Mean?

In the past, applying for renewal required multiple steps, including filling out personal details that were often already stored in government databases. With the new system, these extra steps have been removed.

Now, the process involves only two key actions:

Submitting your renewal or replacement application
Paying the required fees

That’s it. The system automatically retrieves the rest of your information, making the entire journey faster and more convenient.

Emirates ID Validity Periods

While the process is simpler, the validity of your Emirates ID still depends on your age:

21 years and above → ID is valid for 10 years
Under 21 years → ID is valid for 5 years

If you’re applying for a replacement (for example, if your card was lost or damaged), the new card will carry the same validity as the existing one, ensuring no disruption in your identity records.

Importantly, applicants cannot change the number of validity years during the process — the system automatically determines it.

Why This Change Matters

The UAE’s move toward a 1-step Emirates ID renewal is part of a larger initiative to create a “zero bureaucracy” environment. By cutting unnecessary requirements, the government ensures that citizens can access services without delays.

Some of the key benefits include:

Time savings – No repetitive form-filling or redundant steps.
Accuracy – Data is directly retrieved from official databases, minimizing errors.
Accessibility – Citizens can complete the process easily through smart platforms.
Efficiency – Applications are processed faster, reducing waiting times.

This streamlined approach reflects the UAE’s wider digital transformation efforts, ensuring services keep pace with the needs of its citizens.

How to Renew Your Emirates ID in 1 Step

The renewal process is now accessible through the ICP’s smart services platform. Here’s what you need to do:

Access ICP Smart Services – Log in through the official website or app.
Submit Application – Fill in the renewal or replacement request (pre-filled data reduces effort).
Pay Fees – Complete payment online.
Receive Your Card – The new Emirates ID will be issued once processed.

By consolidating these actions into a single step, the ICP has significantly improved the customer journey for UAE citizens.

The Bigger Picture: UAE’s Vision for Smart Services

This improvement isn’t just about one document, it’s part of a larger strategy. The UAE government continues to invest in digital-first services, aligning with its vision of becoming a global leader in innovation, efficiency, and citizen satisfaction.

By enabling citizens to renew their Emirates ID in 1 step, the UAE is setting a new benchmark for governance, proving that bureaucracy doesn’t have to be complicated.

Make Life Easier: Renew Your Emirates ID

The Emirates ID is central to daily life in the UAE, and simplifying its renewal process demonstrates the country’s forward-thinking approach to citizen services. With the ability to renew your Emirates ID in 1 step, UAE nationals can now save time and enjoy a smoother, smarter application journey.

Need guidance on government services, business setup, or official documentation in the UAE? Verde is here to help. Our team of consultants ensures that processes are handled efficiently, leaving you more time to focus on what matters most. Book a free consultation with us today!