Why Speed Matters When Getting an Emirates ID
Whether you’re a first-time resident in the UAE or you’re simply renewing your Emirates ID, getting it done fast is always a top priority. It’s not just a piece of plastic—it’s your identity in the UAE. Without it, daily tasks like opening a bank account, signing a lease, getting a mobile number, or accessing government services can become unnecessarily complicated.
But what if you could speed up the whole process? What if there were little-known tips and clever hacks that could save you time, energy, and stress?
Here’s a humanised, easy-to-follow guide to help you fast-track your Emirates ID application.
Start With a Clean, Correct Application
Everything starts with accuracy. The smallest error in your name, passport number, or even your photo format can delay your Emirates ID issuance by weeks.
Always double-check your documents before submitting anything:
- Make sure your passport is valid
- Ensure visa stamping is complete
- Review your Emirates ID application form thoroughly
Using a typing center or PRO service can often speed up this part. They know what the system expects and can prevent you from making common mistakes.
Book Your Biometric Appointment Immediately
For new Emirates ID applicants, a biometric appointment is mandatory. As soon as your visa is issued and your application is accepted, don’t wait—book your Emirates ID biometric appointment right away.
Choose a less crowded center or go early morning to avoid long queues. Some centers even allow for express slots if you request them.
If you’re renewing and already have biometrics on file, you might be able to skip this step altogether—another reason to get things done before your ID expires.
Opt for the Express or Urgent Processing
Yes, there’s a fast track.
For a higher fee, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) offers an urgent service, often called “Fast Track” or “VIP Service.” This can drastically reduce your waiting time from weeks to just a few days.
Many people don’t know about this or think it’s only for special cases, but anyone can use it.
Whether you’re applying through Amer centers in Dubai or Tasheel centers across the UAE, simply request the urgent processing option at the time of application. The added fee is worth the time saved.
Track Your Application Constantly
One of the biggest delays comes from people not noticing issues on time. After submitting your application, don’t assume everything is moving forward smoothly—keep tracking it.
You can do this online using your application number. If the status doesn’t change within a few days, follow up. Visit the service center or call the ICP helpline to understand the reason behind the delay.
Being proactive can mean the difference between a two-week wait and a two-day fix.
Keep All Your Contact Details Updated
Sometimes, the ICP will try to reach out to you for verification or to reschedule appointments. If your phone number or email isn’t correct, you may never receive the message.
When filling out your application, always triple-check your contact details. If you change your number later, inform the authorities immediately.
Missed communications often lead to silent delays where your application just sits pending without your knowledge.
Leverage Government Service Centers
Each emirate has its own preferred service centers—Amer in Dubai, Tasheel across the country, and others like Typing Centers in Sharjah or Abu Dhabi.
These centers are designed to handle high volumes efficiently and offer dedicated counters for urgent cases. Staff members at these centers are trained to deal with complex cases and can often resolve stuck applications much faster than going it alone online.
If you’re really short on time, visit the center in person instead of relying on online portals. Face-to-face communication helps speed things up significantly.
Avoid Public Holidays and Peak Times
Timing matters.
Avoid applying for your Emirates ID during Ramadan, long weekends, or just before major UAE holidays like National Day or Eid. Government offices tend to slow down due to reduced working hours and high application volumes.
If you’re planning your move or ID renewal, try doing it mid-month and mid-week. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often less busy, and your application is more likely to move faster through the system.
Make Use of PRO or Corporate Support
If you’re being sponsored by a company, ask if they have a PRO (Public Relations Officer) or someone dedicated to handling employee government formalities. These professionals often have direct contacts at service centers and can get things done much faster.
For personal or freelance visas, you can hire a PRO service independently. These services aren’t always cheap, but if time is more important than cost, it’s a worthy investment.
Watch for Common Mistakes That Cause Delays
Delays don’t always come from the system—they often come from us.
Here are a few things that might slow down your Emirates ID:
- Providing old or unclear passport photos
- Mistyping your name as it appears on your passport
- Forgetting to complete your visa stamping before applying
- Using an expired passport
Double-check everything before you hit submit. One extra glance could save you weeks.
Collect Your Emirates ID Without Delay
Once your Emirates ID is printed, you’ll receive a message telling you which post office it’s available at. Don’t delay the pickup.
IDs that aren’t collected for a long time can be returned to the authority or even cancelled in rare cases. Head to the post office as soon as you get the notification, and bring your original passport and application receipt.
When Things Go Wrong: Fixing Delays and Errors
If your Emirates ID is stuck in the system, lost in delivery, or contains a typo, don’t panic—just act fast.
Visit the service center with all your documents. Politely explain the issue and ask if it can be escalated. Most of the time, simple mistakes can be resolved with a quick correction or resubmission.
Never assume the issue will resolve on its own. Following up consistently and respectfully is the best way to get back on track.
Final Tips to Speed Things Up
- Apply for your Emirates ID the moment your visa is ready
- Always ask if express service is available
- Use the same mobile number throughout the process
- Keep checking status updates every 1–2 days
- Collect your ID immediately once it’s ready
Your Emirates ID: More Than Just a Card
Getting your Emirates ID quickly isn’t just about avoiding paperwork headaches—it’s about settling into life in the UAE with peace of mind. It unlocks your access to healthcare, employment, housing, and everything else that makes life here functional and secure.
So take it seriously, follow these steps, and stay proactive.
Fast-tracking your Emirates ID doesn’t require special connections—it just requires smart decisions, the right timing, and a little attention to detail. And once you’ve got it in hand, you can finally enjoy everything the UAE has to offer—without the waiting game.
Now that you know how to get your Emirates ID faster, you’re one step ahead.
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