Introduction
The Emirates ID is one of the most important identity documents for anyone living in the UAE. Issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP), this smart card is used for almost everything — from banking, medical insurance, and government services, to traveling within the GCC.
So, what happens if your Emirates ID gets lost, stolen, or physically damaged? Losing this card can feel stressful, but the UAE has put in place a clear and efficient replacement process. Whether you’re a resident, an expat, or a UAE national, this guide will walk you through every step to replace a lost or damaged Emirates ID in 2025. We’ll cover reporting, police requirements, online vs. in-person applications, urgent services, biometrics, collection, and even how to use your digital Emirates ID while waiting.
1️⃣ Report the loss or damage immediately
The first thing to do when you have a lost or damaged Emirates ID is to report it to ICP. This ensures your old card is blocked, preventing misuse, and starts the official replacement process.
- Where to report: Any ICP Customer Happiness Centre across the UAE or through the UAEICP app.
- Why it matters: Reporting immediately protects you from identity theft or unauthorized use of your Emirates ID.
- Damaged card cases: If your card is cracked, bent, or the chip is unreadable, carry it to the centre or upload a clear image when applying online.
👉 Tip: Always save the reference number you receive after reporting. You’ll need it to track your application.
2️⃣ File a police report if necessary
Not all cases require police involvement. Here’s when it’s needed:
- If your card was simply lost → No police report is required.
- If your card was stolen → You must file a police report with Dubai Police, Abu Dhabi Police, or the relevant emirate’s authority.
This step protects you legally in case someone attempts to misuse your stolen Emirates ID. When you file, you’ll get an electronic Lost Item Certificate, which can be attached to your application.
3️⃣ Gather all the required documents
Preparing the right documents before applying saves time and prevents delays.
- For UAE Nationals: Original and copy of a valid passport, family book, and any available copy of the lost/damaged Emirates ID.
- For Residents/Expats: Original and copy of a valid passport, valid UAE residence visa, passport-size photo with white background (if asked), and any old/damaged Emirates ID.
- For children under 15: Birth certificate + parents’ Emirates ID.
👉 Always keep both physical and digital copies of these documents in a secure location. Having them handy makes replacing a lost or damaged Emirates ID much easier.
4️⃣ Choose your application method
You can apply through three convenient options:
- UAEICP App / Website (Online):
- Most recommended for speed.
- Sign in with UAE PASS, complete the replacement form, and upload documents.
- Application fee here is AED 40.
- Typing Centres:
- Visit an accredited typing centre if you prefer guided help.
- They’ll complete the replacement application for you.
- Service fee here is AED 70.
- Customer Happiness Centres:
- Directly apply at ICP service centres.
- Good option if biometric re-capture is required.
Always select “Replacement for lost or damaged Emirates ID” when applying.
5️⃣ Pay the replacement and service fees
Fees as of 2025 are as follows:
- Standard replacement fee: AED 300
- Service fee (application): AED 40 (online) or AED 70 (typing centre)
- Urgent replacement (Fawri service): AED 150 extra — card issued within 24 hours
If you urgently need your ID for travel, banking, or official work, the Fawri service is the fastest option. This is especially useful if your lost or damaged Emirates ID is needed for time-sensitive tasks.
6️⃣ Biometrics and application verification
- When required: If your biometrics (fingerprints, photo) are outdated or missing, ICP will notify you to visit a Customer Happiness Centre.
- Not required: If biometrics are already on file and valid, you won’t need to redo them.
Processing times:
- Standard service: 3–5 working days.
- Urgent Fawri service: Within 24 hours.
👉 Always keep your phone number updated in the ICP system so you don’t miss SMS updates.
7️⃣ Receiving your replacement Emirates ID
After approval, your new card will be printed and dispatched.
- Collection: Pick up from the Customer Happiness Centre or have it delivered (if delivery option is selected).
- Authorized collection: Family members or representatives can collect on your behalf with an authorization letter.
- Tracking: Use the application reference number to track progress on the ICP website or app.
If you’ve reported a lost or damaged Emirates ID, the ICP will issue a new card with the same ID number, so your personal details and linked services remain unchanged.
8️⃣ Use the digital Emirates ID while waiting
The UAE has made life easier by providing a digital Emirates ID accessible via UAE PASS and the UAEICP app.
- You can use the digital version to access government services, banking, and even some travel needs within the UAE.
- This is especially helpful when your physical card is unavailable due to a lost or damaged Emirates ID.
👉 Tip: Always keep the UAE PASS app updated, as it integrates your official Emirates ID digitally.
9️⃣ Update all records after replacement
After receiving your new card, update your details across essential platforms:
- Banks and financial institutions
- Telecom operators (Etisalat, Du, Virgin)
- Insurance providers
- Employer HR systems
- Government portals (MOHRE, Ministry of Health, etc.)
Failure to update records after replacing a lost or damaged Emirates ID could lead to interruptions in services like salary deposits or medical claims.
10️⃣ Prevention tips to avoid future issues
- Carry it securely: Use a cardholder to prevent bending or scratching.
- Backup copy: Keep scanned copies in cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud).
- Digital ID: Always activate your UAE PASS digital Emirates ID.
- Travel caution: Keep your Emirates ID in a safe compartment when flying.
Taking small precautions reduces the risk of losing or damaging your Emirates ID again.
Real-life scenarios
- Case 1: Lost while traveling — If you lose your Emirates ID abroad, contact the nearest UAE Embassy or Consulate immediately. You’ll still need to complete the replacement upon returning to the UAE.
- Case 2: Child’s damaged ID — Parents can apply on behalf of children under 15. Birth certificate + parents’ ID is mandatory.
- Case 3: Urgent replacement for job visa stamping — Many expats opt for the Fawri service when a lost or damaged Emirates ID is needed quickly for visa or job-related paperwork.
Extended FAQ
Q6: Can I travel between GCC countries without my Emirates ID if it’s lost or damaged?
No. You must carry your passport. Only the physical Emirates ID allows GCC travel without a passport.
Q7: Do I need to cancel my lost Emirates ID before applying for replacement?
No, once you report it, the ICP automatically cancels the old one and issues a replacement.
Q8: Will my digital Emirates ID work the same as the physical card?
Yes, in most government and private services. However, always check with your service provider.
Q9: Can tourists replace a lost Emirates ID?
No. Only UAE citizens and residents with a valid residency visa are eligible for Emirates ID replacement.
Q10: Is there a fine for delaying replacement of a lost or damaged Emirates ID?
Yes, penalties may apply if you delay reporting or replacing your ID. It’s recommended to apply immediately.
Conclusion
Replacing a lost or damaged Emirates ID in the UAE may seem stressful, but the process is designed to be straightforward and efficient. Whether your card is misplaced, stolen, or physically unusable, the ICP provides clear steps to help you get a replacement quickly. By reporting a lost or damaged Emirates ID immediately, filing a police report if needed, and submitting your documents online or at a service centre, you ensure your identity is protected.
The UAE also makes it convenient to use a digital Emirates ID through UAE PASS while waiting for your physical replacement. Choosing urgent services can speed up the replacement if your lost or damaged Emirates ID is needed for work, banking, or travel. Once you receive the new card, don’t forget to update your records with banks, employers, and telecom providers to avoid disruptions caused by a lost or damaged Emirates ID.
Ultimately, the best approach is to act quickly and follow the official process. With the right steps, replacing a lost or damaged Emirates ID is smooth, fast, and secure, ensuring you can continue life in the UAE without delays.
Helpful external links
- ICP Official Website — Emirates ID Services
- UAE Government Portal — Emirates ID Information
- UAEICP App (Google Play)
- Dubai Police — Lost Item Certificate
Also Read: 20 Things Your Emirates ID Chip Secretly Stores in 2025 (Explained Clearly)