Losing your Emirates ID can cause stress — especially since it’s required for banking, SIM cards, travel, and almost every official service in the UAE. The good news is that the UAE ICP (Identity & Citizenship Authority) has a fast and simple Emirates ID replacement process, including urgent 24-hour issuance.
This complete 800-word guide covers steps, documents, fees, timeline, and tips — plus an overview table, detailed tables, and quick FAQs.
Overview Table
| Category | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Service Type | Emirates ID Replacement | For lost or damaged cards |
| Processing Time | 24 hours (Urgent) / 3–5 days (Normal) | Urgent recommended |
| Fees | AED 300–430 | Includes urgent fee |
| Where to Apply | ICP Center, Typing Center, Online | Biometrics required in some cases |
| Required Documents | Passport, Visa, Passport photo | Police report sometimes required |
| Urgent Option | Available | “Fawri Service” |
What to Do If You Lose Your Emirates ID
When you lose your Emirates ID, you must inform the ICP Authority immediately and apply for a replacement. The replacement card will have the same number and details as your previous card.
You can replace the Emirates ID through:
- ICP Smart Services website
- ICP mobile app
- Authorized typing centers
- ICP Customer Happiness Centers (fastest)
Step-by-Step Emirates ID Replacement Process
Step 1: Report the Lost Emirates ID
If your ID is simply misplaced, you can proceed with the application without a police report.
However, if the card was stolen, a police report is required.
Police report fee: AED 70–120 (varies by emirate)
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
You must carry the following:
- Passport (original)
- Valid UAE residence visa
- Old Emirates ID (if damaged)
- Passport-size photo (for some cases)
- Police report (if stolen)
For children under 15, additional documents needed:
- Birth certificate
- Passport copy
- Photo with white background
Step 3: Submit Your Replacement Application
You can submit the replacement request through one of the following:
Option A: ICP Smart Services (Online)
Visit the official ICP portal, choose “Replace Emirates ID”, enter your details, upload documents, and pay fees.
Option B: Typing Centers
Approved typing centers fill the application for you and submit it to ICP.
Option C: ICP Customer Happiness Centers
Fastest option — especially when using urgent processing.
Step 4: Biometrics (If Required)
Biometrics are not required for every replacement, but you may be asked if:
- You changed your visa recently
- Your ID expired long ago
- The system requests verification
Step 5: Pay the Fees
Fees depend on whether you choose normal or urgent processing (details below).
Step 6: Collect the New Emirates ID
You will receive the new card via:
- Emirates Post delivery
- Same-day collection (if urgent rapid processing)
Emirates ID Replacement Fees 2025
Normal Processing Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | AED 100 |
| Service Fee | AED 50 |
| Typing Fee | AED 30–70 |
| Delivery Fee | AED 15 |
| Total Normal Cost | AED 195–235 |
Urgent Replacement Fees (24 hours)
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Urgent ICP Fee | AED 150–300 |
| Application Fee | AED 100 |
| Typing Fee | AED 30–70 |
| Total Urgent Cost | AED 300–430 |
Urgent replacement is called “Fawri Service”, available only at selected ICP centers.
Where to Apply for Emirates ID Replacement
1. ICP Customer Happiness Centers (Best for Urgent)
These centers offer one-day urgent replacement.
Common centers include:
- Al Barsha (Dubai)
- Al Rashidiya (Dubai)
- Al Khalidiya (Abu Dhabi)
- Ajman Customer Happiness Center
- Sharjah Al Dhaid Center
2. Typing Centers
Typing centers help prepare and submit your application.
3. ICP Smart Services Online
Suitable for normal processing.
Emirates ID Replacement Processing Time
| Type of Service | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Urgent Replacement | Within 24 hours |
| Normal Replacement | 3–5 working days |
| Stolen Card With Police Report | 24–48 hours |
| Delivery by Emirates Post | +1–2 days |
Urgent replacement is ideal for:
- Visa stamping
- Bank requirements
- Travel or immigration
- Lost card emergencies
Situations Where Police Report Is Required
You need a police report if:
- The card was stolen
- You suspect your card is being misused
- The card was lost with other important documents
You do NOT need a police report for:
- Simple misplacement
- Damaged card
- Lost inside your home or office
Tips to Speed Up the Emirates ID Replacement
- Apply through an ICP center for highest priority
- Visit early morning for faster service
- Carry all original documents
- Keep soft copies ready on your phone
- Choose urgent processing if time-sensitive
- Track your application through the ICP app
Normal vs Urgent Replacement: Comparison
| Feature | Normal Processing | Urgent Processing (Fawri) |
|---|---|---|
| Time | 3–5 days | 24 hours |
| Cost | AED 195–235 | AED 300–430 |
| Best For | Routine cases | Emergencies |
| Delivery | Post | Same day or next day |
FAQs
Q1. How long does an Emirates ID replacement take?
Urgent replacement takes 24 hours, normal replacement takes 3–5 days.
Q2. Do I need a police report for a lost Emirates ID?
Only if the card was stolen, not for normal loss.
Q3. Can expats get urgent Emirates ID replacement?
Yes, urgent 24-hour replacement is available for all UAE residents.