The UAE introduces a new passport renewal rule allowing citizens to renew their passports up to 12 months before expiry, enhancing convenience and aligning with the nation's digital service initiatives.

Emirati citizens will soon enjoy the flexibility of renewing their passports up to a year before they expire, as announced on Thursday by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). Previously, this renewal period was restricted to just six months prior to the expiration date.

Set to take effect on Monday, August 18, this policy change will be available through ICP's advanced smart services platform. Ali Mohammed Al Shamsi, chairman of ICP, highlighted that this adjustment aims to enhance the quality of life for Emirati citizens by allowing more proactive travel planning, smoother execution of official tasks, and increased utilization of secure digital documents.

The UAE Passport's Global Prestige

Al Shamsi also pointed out that the UAE passport is currently ranked among the world's strongest and most trusted. He expressed confidence that this update will further solidify its prestigious global position.

This initiative falls under the broader "Zero Government Bureaucracy" strategy of the UAE. It focuses on minimizing administrative hurdles and setting an exemplary standard for digital public services within the region and internationally.