Lost Your Emirates ID? Here’s What to Do Next!

The Emirates ID is a vital form of identification for UAE residents, issued by the Federal Authority of Identity and Citizenship (ICA). All UAE citizens, residents, and GCC nationals must carry their Emirates ID at all times. If you find yourself saying, "I’ve lost my Emirates ID," don’t worry! This guide will walk you through each step to report, replace, and track your lost Emirates ID.

Steps to Take if You’ve Lost Your Emirates ID Card

Losing your Emirates ID can be unsettling, but the process to replace it is straightforward. Here’s what to do if your Emirates ID is lost or damaged:

Step 1: Report the Lost Emirates ID

The first thing you need to do is report your lost Emirates ID to the nearest ICA Customer Happiness Centre. By reporting promptly, the ICA can deactivate the lost card, preventing any misuse. You’ll need to bring a valid form of identification to confirm your identity.

Here’s what different residents need to bring when reporting a lost Emirates ID:

• UAE Nationals: Family Book with a valid passport.
• GCC Nationals: Valid employment certificate or card, school registration certificate, or other identification documents.
• Expatriates: Passport with a valid residency permit.
• Children (Under 15): Parents should bring the child’s original birth certificate and a passport-size photo with a white background.

The good news is, that you don’t have to physically go to a center if you prefer to do things online. The UAEICP app is available on the App Store and Google Play, allowing you to report a lost or damaged Emirates ID from your mobile.

Step 2: Apply for an Emirates ID Replacement

Once your lost Emirates ID is reported, the next step is to apply for a replacement. You can do this by submitting a replacement request either online, through the ICA website, or by visiting a Customer Happiness Centre. The online application process is convenient and straightforward—just fill out the form on the UAEICP app or the official ICA website.

For those who prefer to complete the process in person, application forms are available at ICA centers across the UAE. It’s crucial to fill out all details accurately to ensure your new card can be processed without delays.

Step 3: Pay the Replacement Fees

A lost Emirates ID replacement incurs a fee, so be prepared to make this payment along with your application. Here’s a quick breakdown of the fees:

• Replacement Fee: AED 300
• Application Fee via Typing Centre: AED 70
• Application Fee via eForm: AED 40

These fees are standard across all UAE nationals, GCC nationals, and expatriate residents. Make sure to check the specific fees with the ICA or on their app, as any updates will reflect on the UAEICP platform.

Step 4: Track and Collect Your New Emirates ID

After applying, you’ll receive an SMS notification from the ICA with details on your application status and an estimated delivery date. Usually, it takes around two working days to issue a new Emirates ID. 

You can track your lost Emirates ID replacement status through SMS updates or by contacting the courier service at 600-53-0003 once you receive confirmation that your ID is ready for delivery.

If you’re eager to know the progress, you can always view the Emirates ID online through the ICA website or app, ensuring peace of mind as you wait to receive your Emirates ID back.

Tips to Prevent Losing Emirates ID

Misplacing important documents happens to the best of us. Consider these quick tips to keep your Emirates ID safe and secure:

• Keep it in a designated spot in your wallet or purse to reduce the risk of loss.
• Store a digital copy of your Emirates ID on your phone or another secure device, allowing you quick access to details if needed.
• Report any loss immediately to avoid unauthorized use of your ID.

Losing your Emirates ID might be an inconvenience, but following these steps makes the process of reporting and replacing your ID straightforward. Now you know exactly what to do if your Emirates ID is lost, from reporting it to applying for a replacement and tracking its delivery.