What photo size is required for Emirates ID?

Emirates ID photos must be 43mm wide × 55mm tall, the same size as UAE passport photos. For digital uploads, the photo should be at least 507 × 650 pixels at 300 DPI.

Do I need to provide a photo for Emirates ID renewal?

Yes, a recent photo is required for Emirates ID renewal, especially if your appearance has changed significantly. The ICP system may use your existing biometric photo if still valid, but having a fresh photo ready is recommended.

What is the background color for Emirates ID photo?

Emirates ID photos require a plain white background. The background must be uniform without patterns, shadows, or any other colors. Off-white backgrounds are not accepted.

Can I use the same photo for Emirates ID and UAE passport?

Yes, both Emirates ID and UAE passport use the same 43×55mm photo specifications. If your photo is recent (within 6 months) and compliant, you can use it for both documents.

🪪 ICP Biometric

Emirates ID Photo Requirements

صورة الهوية الإماراتية

Create compliant Emirates ID photos for new applications, renewals, and replacements. Same size as UAE passport: 43×55mm.

Create Emirates ID Photo →

👤

43 × 55 mm

Emirates ID

What is Emirates ID?

The Emirates Identity Card (Emirates ID) is the mandatory national identification card for all UAE citizens and residents. It contains biometric data and is required for:

✓ Government services and transactions
✓ Banking and financial services
✓ Healthcare and insurance
✓ Employment and visa processes
✓ Telecom services activation

Emirates ID Categories

UAE Citizens (Golden) Lifetime validity

Residents (Blue) Linked to visa

GCC Citizens (Green) 5-10 years

Emirates ID Photo Specifications

Size Requirements

Photo Size	43 × 55 mm
In Inches	1.69 × 2.17 inches
Digital Minimum	507 × 650 px
File Format	JPEG/JPG
Max File Size	2 MB

Biometric Standards

✓ Face centered, directly facing camera
✓ Both eyes open and clearly visible
✓ Neutral expression, mouth closed
✓ Even lighting, no shadows
✓ Plain white background
✗ No digital filters or retouching

Emirates ID Application Process

Submit Application

Apply online via ICP website/app or at a service center

Upload Photo

Provide 43×55mm photo meeting ICP specifications

Biometrics

Visit center for fingerprint and iris scan capture

Receive Card

Card delivered via Emirates Post in 3-5 days

Where to Apply

🏛️

ICP Service Centers

Official Federal Authority centers in all emirates with biometric capture.

Full biometric services

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ICP UAE App

Apply online and schedule biometrics appointment.

iOS & Android

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Typing Centers

AMER and other authorized centers for assisted applications.

Additional service fee

Emirates ID Photo FAQ

How much does Emirates ID cost? ▼

Emirates ID fees vary by category and validity:

New ID (Resident): AED 100 + AED 70 urgent fee (optional)
Renewal: AED 100 + service fees
Replacement (Lost/Damaged): AED 300 + AED 70

Typing center fees may add AED 50-150.

Is the photo captured at the service center or do I bring my own? ▼

You need to bring or upload your own photo for the initial application. However, at the service center, your biometric photo will also be captured for facial recognition purposes. Having a compliant photo ready speeds up the process.

What if my Emirates ID photo is rejected? ▼

Common rejection reasons:

Wrong size: Must be exactly 43×55mm
Background issues: Must be plain white
Poor quality: Blurry, pixelated, or poor lighting
Expression: Not neutral, eyes not fully open

Use VisaPicPro to ensure your photo meets all requirements.

How long is Emirates ID valid? ▼

UAE Citizens: Up to 15 years (lifetime for elderly)
Residents: Same as residence visa validity
GCC Citizens: 5-10 years based on stay

Renew at least 30 days before expiry to avoid fines.