Emirates ID stopped working? How to get it replaced for free in the UAE

Dubai: Tried using your Emirates ID at the bank or at your telecom company’s store but the card did not work?

Emirates IDs contain several critical security and identity features, like the microchip, which is used to verify the identity of the cardholder through card readers at various government and public offices.

However, if your card stops working, there are ways in which you can get it replaced for free. Here’s how.

According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), if you find that you card has suddenly stopped working, you need to visit the nearest Emirates ID service centre to have the card examined and the issue identified.

According to the ICP, if the problem is due to a manufacturing defect, such as a damaged chip, the card will be replaced free of charge.

However, if the issue is caused by misuse, the customer will be required to apply for a replacement ID card due to damage, and pay the fees.

You can apply for the Emirates ID at the centre itself, or even online by following the steps in our detailed guide here.

In case, the damage to the card is found to be the result of misuse, you will need to pay for the card replacement, as follows:

You will receive the new Emirates ID within five working days and the card validity will be the same as the lost or damaged card.