Losing your Emirates ID can be a stressful experience. The Emirates ID serves as the mandatory identification document for every UAE resident and citizen since it protects them in accessing banking services and government services, in addition to property rentals and healthcare visits. Online reporting and replacement of lost Emirates IDs is offered by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), creating an efficient process for UAE residents.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through every step of the process, including navigating the ICP portal, what documents you’ll need, and additional tips to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Methods For Reporting Lost Emirates ID
Through the ICP Website
Users can report a lost Emirates ID through the official ICP website which stands as the most practical method for this purpose. The portal provides services to UAE nationals alongside foreign residents who can access services through a smooth process using few clicks.
Step 1: Visit the ICP Official Website
- Users should access the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) official portal by visiting https://icp.gov.ae through their web browser.
Step 2: Navigate to ‘Issue Replacement for Lost/Damaged ID Card
Once you’re on the homepage:
- Click on “Services.”
- Select “ID Card Services.”
- Go to “Issue Replacement for Lost/Damaged ID Card” found under the “ID Card Services” section.
The designated portal available for missing Emirates ID replacement procedures is located on this webpage.
Step 3: Fill Out the Online Application
There are several pieces of information required for the application process, which include:
- Your full name as per Emirates ID
- Emirates ID number (if you remember it)
- Passport number and nationality
- Your date of birth and email
- Your current mobile number
- The application requires you to describe the event that led to your card loss and the time of disappearance.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
The application system requires you to add supporting verification documents to prove your identity. These may include:
- A valid passport copy
- A passport-sized photo with a white background
- A copy of your residence visa page (for expatriates)
- Police report (in some emirates—optional or required depending on location)
Tip: Your application processing time remains faster when you supply documents that are both easy to read and saved in PDF or JPEG file formats.
Step 5: Pay the Fees Online
- AED 300 – Emirates ID replacement fee
- AED 40 – Online service fee
- AED 150 – If you choose urgent service via a customer happiness center
Payment through UAE credit or debit cards remains an available option for processing. The application proceeds to the following stage after completing payment.
Step 6: Submit the Application
- After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation message and application tracking number via SMS or email.
Through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)
The UAE nationals, along with UAE residents who experience ID loss abroad, may utilize this procedure.
Step 1: Visit the MOFA Website
- Users can access the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
- Users must navigate to the “Services” section, followed by the “Citizen Services” page for further action.
Step 2: Choose “Lost Passport or Emirates ID Assistance”
- The section allows Emirates ID reporting by United Arab Emirates nationals and citizens abroad to notify of the loss of essential documents.
Step 3: Fill in the Report Form
You’ll be required to provide:
- Emirates ID number
- Passport details
- Country and city where the ID was lost
- Your current location and contact information
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Step 4: Upload Required Documents
- You need to submit a passport digital file through a document scanner.
- Recent photo
- Submissions of police reports and foreign affidavits are necessary.
Step 5: Submit the Application
- Submit the completed form.
- Your case submission will be handled by MOFA, which will transfer it to ICP for case processing.
Step 6: Await Instructions
- Your notification about the following procedures will arrive from MOFA or ICP.
- The verification steps at an embassy of UAE, could be necessary before issuing your new identification card.
Through the ICP App
Users of the ICP UAE Smart App can easily file reports about their lost Emirates ID through this mobile application. The ICP UAE Smart App provides an important service for citizens who want to conduct official tasks from their mobile phones.
Step 1: Download the ICP UAE Smart App
- Available on both:
Step 2: Sign In or Register
- Users must log in to the app with available credentials, which include Emirates ID number or UAE Pass, or ICP.
- New users should register with their individual account details for the platform.
Step 3: Navigate to “Report ID Lost”
- From the main dashboard, tap on “Services”.
- Under the Identity Services section, find “Report Lost Emirates ID” through the system.
Step 4: Fill in the Report Form
You’ll be asked to:
- Confirm your identity (via Emirates ID or passport)
- Enter contact details
- Provide a short explanation of how the ID was lost
Step 5: Upload Documents
The reporting process requires the submission of required supporting documents, which should include:
- Passport copy
- Personal photo
- Police report (if requested)
Step 6: Make Payment
- Users must pay both replacement and service fees through the payment gateway, which the app integrates securely.
Step 7: Confirmation and Tracking
- After submission, the system will notify you through SMS or email.
- The app enables you to monitor application status through its “My Applications” section.
Tips for Avoiding Future Loss of Emirates ID
Prevention is better than a cure. The following guidelines offer strategies to prevent future ownership loss of your Emirates ID:
1. Keep It in a Dedicated Holder
- Any primary ID holder will remain secure when placed in a dedicated wallet insert or card holder.
- Avoid carrying it loosely in your pocket or bag.
2. Store a Digital Copy
- Save your Emirates ID by either photographing or scanning it before you securely store the images in cloud-based services like Google Drive.
- The digital copy serves emergency identity verification when immediate verification is necessary.
3. Limit Physical Handling
- The practice of providing multiple people or establishments with your ID card should be limited unless absolutely needed. The decreased possibility of loss becomes a positive effect of this approach.
4. Keep It Separate While Traveling
- While traveling, you should place your Emirates ID and passport in separate storage locations to prevent the simultaneous loss of both documents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need a police report to replace a lost Emirates ID?
Not always. Emirates that accept replacement via the ICP portal do not need a police report as a requirement. You must contact ICP or verify with your local authority because of this.
2. Can I track the status of my replacement application?
Yes, you can track it via:
- ICP portal: Using your application number
- ICP app: Under the ‘My Applications’ section
- SMS: ICP usually sends updates via SMS
3. What if I find my old ID after reporting it lost?
After submitting a lost report, a fresh ID card will be issued; therefore, your former ID becomes obsolete. Do not attempt to use it.
4. Can someone else collect my new Emirates ID?
Yes, but they must carry:
- A copy of your passport/ID
- Their own Emirates ID
- An authorization letter signed by you
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Final Thoughts
The process of replacing a lost Emirates ID remains highly efficient as per the UAE government guidelines. The ICP offers both its online platform and mobile application to handle your report and replacement needs free of paperwork while eliminating queueing requirements.
The process of getting your replacement card will be completed in a few days if you maintain all necessary documents prepared for submission.
