If you’re applying for a new Emirates ID, renewing your ID, or replacing a lost card, you may be asked to complete or update your fingerprint biometrics at an official ICP centre.
This 800-word guide explains how to book an Emirates ID fingerprint appointment, required documents, fees, locations, and a quick overview table — all in a clean, easy-to-understand format.
Overview Table
| Category | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Who Needs Biometrics | New applicants, renewals, replacements | UAE residents & GCC |
| Appointment Method | Online (ICP), app, typing centre | Walk-ins available |
| Fees | AED 70–150 | Depends on centre |
| Processing Time | 5–15 minutes | On-spot |
| Validity | Biometrics valid for years | No need to redo unless required |
| Urgent Option | Yes, at ICP Happiness Centres | Higher fee |
What Is the Emirates ID Fingerprint Requirement?
The UAE ICP Authority requires all residents to complete fingerprint biometrics to verify their identity. Biometrics include:
- Fingerprint scanning
- Palm scanning
- Photo capture
- Signature sample
You only need to do biometrics once, unless the system asks you to update them for renewal or replacement.
Common situations requiring fingerprint appointments:
- First-time Emirates ID applicants
- Visa change or new residency
- Lost/expired Emirates ID
- ICP requests update due to quality issues
- Children turning 15 years old
How to Book an Emirates ID Fingerprint Appointment (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Visit ICP Smart Services
Go to the official ICP Smart Services portal.
Select:
“Biometrics Appointment” → “Book Appointment”
Step 2: Enter Your Emirates ID or PRAN Number
PRAN number is given on:
- Visa application
- Typing centre receipt
- Online registration form
Step 3: Choose the Service Type
Select one of the following:
- New Emirates ID biometrics
- Renewal biometrics
- Replacement biometrics
- Update requested by ICP
Step 4: Select the Nearest Biometrics Center
You can choose from:
- ICP Customer Happiness Centres
- Preventive Medical Centres
- Amer Centres (Dubai)
- Tasheel Centres
- Typing centres with biometric facilities
Step 5: Choose Date & Time
Available time slots usually range from 8 AM to 6 PM.
Step 6: Confirm Appointment & Pay Fees
You will receive a confirmation message by:
- SMS
- ICP app
Bring the QR code or appointment number on the day of biometrics.
Documents Required for Emirates ID Fingerprinting
Carry the following:
For Adults
- Original Passport
- UAE Residence Visa
- Emirates ID (if renewal/replacement)
- Appointment confirmation
- Typing centre receipt or PRAN number
For Children Under 15
- Passport copy
- Birth certificate
- Guardian’s Emirates ID
- White background photo
For Lost Emirates ID Cases
- Police report copy
- Passport & visa copy
Emirates ID Fingerprint Appointment Fees 2025
Fees vary depending on location.
| Service | Fees (AED) |
|---|---|
| Biometrics Capture | 70–100 |
| Typing Centre Charges | 30–50 |
| Urgent Appointment | 100–150 |
| ICP Centre Service Fee | 30–50 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 120–200 AED |
Where to Go for Emirates ID Fingerprinting?
1. ICP Customer Happiness Centres (Recommended)
Fastest processing, urgent options available.
Popular centres:
- Al Barsha (Dubai)
- Al Rashidiya (Dubai)
- Abu Dhabi Al Khalidiya
- Ajman Al Jurf Centre
- Sharjah Al Dhaid Centre
2. Medical Fitness Centres
Many UAE medical test centres also provide fingerprint scanning.
3. Amer Centres (Dubai)
Ideal for Dubai residents.
4. Tasheel / Typing Centres
Not all have biometric machines — check in advance.
Do You Need an Appointment for Biometrics?
Appointments are recommended to avoid waiting, but walk-ins are accepted at:
- ICP Happiness Centres
- Some Amer Centres
- Select medical fitness centres
Walk-in waiting time varies from 10 minutes to 1 hour depending on rush hours.
Processing Time for Emirates ID Fingerprinting
| Step | Time Taken |
|---|---|
| Registration | 2–3 minutes |
| Fingerprint scan | 3–5 minutes |
| Photo capture | 1 minute |
| Total Process | 5–15 minutes |
Biometrics update instantly in the ICP system, allowing ID processing to continue.
Common Reasons ICP Requires New Biometrics
You may be asked to redo biometrics if:
- Fingerprints were unclear during last scan
- You changed your residency visa sponsor
- Your Emirates ID expired long ago
- You applied for a lost/replacement card
- Your application needs identity verification
Tips for a Smooth Biometrics Appointment
- Arrive 10 minutes before your slot
- Bring all original documents
- Ensure fingers are clean (no paint, henna, oil)
- Avoid applying lotion before the scan
- Bring children early to avoid crowd
- Use urgent appointment for faster results
- Keep SMS and QR code ready to show at entry
Biometrics Completion & Emirates ID Processing
Once biometrics are completed:
- ICP updates your file instantly
- Emirates ID printing begins
- You will receive the card in 3–5 days
- You can track status using the PRAN or Emirates ID number
Quick Comparison: Appointment vs Walk-In
| Feature | Appointment | Walk-In |
|---|---|---|
| Waiting Time | 0–10 minutes | 10–60 minutes |
| Availability | Fixed slots | Depends on rush |
| Best For | Working individuals | Urgent cases |
FAQs
Q1. How long does Emirates ID fingerprinting take?
The entire fingerprint process takes 5–15 minutes.
Q2. Do children need fingerprinting for Emirates ID?
Children below 15 need only a photo; fingerprints start from age 15.
Q3. Can I walk in without a fingerprint appointment?
Yes, walk-ins are accepted at most ICP centres, but waiting time may vary.