The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security has clarified the decision allowing Emirati citizens to renew their Emirates ID cards up to one year before expiration, providing greater flexibility in managing official documents and completing government procedures.

The authority confirmed that the measure took effect on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, extending the early renewal window for UAE nationals from six months to a full year. The change forms part of efforts to simplify government services and improve coordination between identity card and passport procedures.

The extended renewal window applies specifically to UAE citizens. Expatriate residents and Gulf Cooperation Council nationals may renew their Emirates ID cards after expiration or during the final six months of validity, subject to the requirements applicable to their respective categories.

Renewal applications can be submitted through the authority’s official smart services website, mobile application and authorized service channels. Applicants must select the renewal service, review and update their personal information where necessary, provide supporting documents and pay the applicable fees.

The authority requires a passport with at least three months of remaining validity and a recent personal photograph that differs from the photograph printed on the existing Emirates ID. Applicants aged 15 and above must complete fingerprint and signature procedures when required.

For UAE nationals, the published renewal fee is AED 100 for a five-year identity card issued to applicants under the age of 21, while a ten-year identity card for citizens aged 21 and above carries a renewal fee of AED 200. Additional service or application-channel charges may apply.

An urgent renewal option is also available at designated authority service centers for an additional AED 150, subject to the relevant eligibility conditions and completion of the required procedures.

The authority grants a 30-day grace period following the card’s expiration date. Once this period ends, a late renewal fine of AED 20 per day applies, up to a maximum of AED 1,000. Certain exemptions may be available under the authority’s approved decisions.

Under the standard service, renewed Emirates ID cards are delivered through the authorized delivery company. Customers using the urgent service can collect their cards from the relevant authority service center once processing has been completed.

The measure supports the UAE’s wider efforts to provide proactive government services and reduce administrative complexity. Citizens and residents are encouraged to check their identity card expiry dates and use official channels to submit and track renewal applications.

Source: UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security