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The Unified Identity Number (UID) in the UAE is a permanent and fixed, 9–15 digit numerical code. It links each person to immigration, visa, and Emirates ID systems. It’s created automatically by UAE immigration authorities, specifically the Federal Authority for Identity and GDRFA, when you first enter the country. You can find this number on your visa, listed above the visa number, labeled as “UID.” It does not change if your visa or passport changes.
The UID follows a plain numeric format. The first digits may reflect the Emirate code, followed by the visa issue year and personal visa number. To check your UID, you can look at your visa sticker or access the GDRFA and ICP portals using your passport details.
Its main purpose is identity unification. It validates records, prevents duplication, and simplifies access to services. The UID is used in over 21 official functions. These include visa applications, Emirates ID linking, public service access, SIM card activation, banking, job processing, vehicle registration, and medical records. It is vital for business setup, trade filings, lease agreements, education, and law enforcement.
You receive your UID upon entry after visa stamping and Emirates ID issuance. Online portals allow data retrieval if no issue occurs. But you can use ICP and GDRFA or visit immigration offices to resolve them, if any issues arise, like duplicate UID, mismatched data, and outdated links, which delay services.
Lastly, the UID differs from visa and Emirates ID numbers in function, authority, and usage. The UID is permanent and tied to immigration, while visa and Emirates ID numbers are subject to change.
What Is the UID Number in the UAE?
The UID number in the UAE is a 9 to 15 digit unique and permanent automatically generated identification code that is linked to the Emirates ID, visa, and government systems, serving as a centralized single information source. UID (Unified Identity Number) is a compulsory numerical code for every person in the UAE to verify official records, process online transactions, and check visa status across all government systems and portals.
Who Issues the UID Number in the UAE?
The UID number is issued in the UAE by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) and the General Directory of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) during visa processing, residency approval, or Emirates ID registration. It is automatically generated and linked to the individual’s immigration and identification records, which they can use to access government services.
Where can I find the UID number on the visa?
You can find the UID number or Unified Identification Number on the UAE visa at the top of the visa card, positioned right above the visa number or file number being labeled as “UID” for easy identification. It is used for all legal processes. The image below shows a box that highlights the location where the UID number is mentioned.
What is the Format of the UID Number?
The UID number follows a numeric format ranging from 9 to 15 digits with no letters, symbols, or spaces, and varies in length depending on the year of issuance, system updates, and emirate authority. Despite its length, the format serves one purpose that is uniquely identifying an individual across all UAE immigration and residency systems.
The common format:
It is always plain numbers. No emirate code or date embedded. The UID is universal and fixed across all Emirates and stays the same for life.
Example Format :
- 201198765432109
- 201193456789
First three digits: Often represent the UAE country code.
These digits indicate the Emirate where the visa was issued. For Instance:
- 101/: Abu Dhabi
- 201: Dubai
- 301/: Sharjah
- 401: Ajman
The next four digits: The country code is followed by the date of the individual visa. For instance, in the above 2 examples, 201198765432109 and 201193456, the following figures represent the year the visa was issued.
- 1987
- 1934
Next 5-9 digits: The remaining 5-9 Digits represent your visa number, mostly used in government documents. For instance, in the above examples, 201198765432109 and 201193456789, the bold section represents the visa number.
- 65432109
- 56789
Overall, the UID number has a country code, date of issuance of visa, and the actual resident number.
How to Check Your UID Number?
To check your UAE Unified Identification (UID) Number, you have two main options. The first way is straightforward, where you have to directly locate it on your physical residence visa document, typically a 9 to 15-digit number printed above the “File Number.” Along with this, you can check it on ethe mirate ID as your UID number is also printed on the card.
Alternatively, if you don’t have your visa in your hand, you can use online government portals such as the GDRFA Dubai website (for Dubai-issued visas) or the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) website (for visas from other Emirates). On these sites, you’ll need to navigate to an inquiry service and provide personal details like your passport number, nationality, and date of birth to retrieve your UID.
How to Check Your UID Number on Visa
To check your UID Number on Visa, you have to first get your physical residence visa sticker in your passport or your e-visa document.
- Once you get that, you have to look for a 9 to 15-digit number, usually printed above the “File Number” or “Visa Number” field.
- It will be explicitly labeled as “UID” or “Unified Number.
All visa types, including tourist visa, freelance visa, and visit visa.
How to Check Your UID Number on an Entry Permit?
To check your UID Number on your Entry Permit, make sure you have a physical printout or a digital copy (PDF) of your UAE Entry Permit. This is the document issued before your residence visa is stamped in your passport.
Scan the Document for Key Labels: Carefully examine the entire permit, paying close attention to labels such as:
- “U.I.D. No.”
- “Unified Number”
- “الرقم الموحد” (Al Raqam Al Muwahad – the Arabic for Unified Number)
- Sometimes, it might simply be a numerical field near your details without an explicit “UID” label, but its position and number of digits (9-15) often distinguish it.
Identify the Number: Once you find one of these labels, the series of digits next to it is your UID number. It’s typically a 9 to 15-digit number.
How to Check Your UID Number Online?
To check your UAE UID (Unified Identification Number) online through the official government portals, you can use different methods depending on which Emirate issued your visa or residency. Below, I have discussed 2 methods, including the GDRFA Website (Dubai Residents Only) and ICP Smart Services for all Emirates.
Method 1: GDRFA Website (Dubai Residents Only)
- Visit the GDRFA website.
- Click on “File Status Inquiry” under the “Services” section.
- Choose “Residence Inquiry”.
- Enter your passport number, nationality, and date of birth.
- Submit the form.
- Your UID number will appear with the visa file details.
Method 2: ICP Smart Services for all Emirates
- Open the ICP Smart Services portal.
- Select “File Validity” service from the homepage.
- Choose “Search by Passport Information”.
- Enter your passport number, passport type, and date of birth.
- Select your nationality from the dropdown.
- Click on “Search”.
- The results will display your UID number and related visa data.
What is the Purpose of the Unified Identity Number?
The Purpose of the Unified Identity Number is to establish a singular, permanent identity record for each individual, consolidating all official documents, enabling cross-sector data interoperability, ensuring data integrity, and facilitating centralized administrative governance. Some of the key purposes behind the UID presence are:
- Permanent Individual Identity Establishment
- Official Record Consolidation
- Cross-Sector Data Interoperability
- Data Integrity and Authenticity Assurance
- Centralized Administrative Governance Facilitation
What are the Uses of the UID Number in the UAE?
The use of the Unified Identity Number (UID) includes linking an individual’s immigration records with vital services such as visa processing, Emirates ID issuance, and government portal access. Along with this, the UID supports employment documentation, business setup, and law enforcement coordination.
It also ensures real-time data integrity, eliminates redundancy, and protects personal records from misuse. The below 21 use cases demonstrate how the UID integrates identity into one centralized system.
- Tracking Immigration and Residency History
The UID number helps monitor immigration history in the UAE. It links entry and exit records and residency permit history. Along with this, users can check their travel history and immigration status through this.
- Processing Visa Applications, Renewals, and Cancellations
The UID number facilitates UAE visa application, renewal, and cancellation as it links personal records to immigration files. Along with this, it helps track visa status, process extensions, and confirm residency visa renewals. Through UID visa tracking you can monitor the process to avoid any error or delays.
- Linking Emirates ID with Residency Records
The UID number links the Emirates ID with residency records. It verifies accurate identification. Along with this, it connects all personal data, visa details, and residency status to the Emirates ID. This integration reduces errors, simplifies verification.
- Accessing Government and Public Services
The UID helps in getting access to necessary public services in the UAE. These include healthcare, education, and taxation. It verifies individual identity, taxation filing, and educational profile, which simplifies service applications.
- Use in Financial Services
The Unified Identity Number is used for opening bank accounts and accessing financial services in the UAE. It supports identity verification, complying with KYC regulations. This way it helps in confirming residency status and reducing fraud.
- Registering Mobile SIM Cards and Telecom Services
The UID number is required to register mobile SIM cards and activate telecom services in the UAE. Telecom providers like Etisalat and DU use UID and Emirates ID to verify user identity. This process prevents misuse, supports national security, and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements for mobile and internet services.
- Use for Driving Licenses
The UID number is used to apply for or renew a UAE driving license. It connects personal and residency records with traffic authority systems. This way it helps to withstand with RTA and traffic department requirements.
- Registering Vehicles and Transferring Ownership
The UID number is required for vehicles registration and ownership transfer as It links personal data with traffic records. Authorities like the RTA use UID and Emirates ID for secure verification.
- Activating Utility Services
The Unified Identity Number is required to activate utility services like DEWA, SEWA, and ADDC. It links the tenant or owner identity. Utility providers use UID with Emirates ID to approve electricity, water, and gas connections.
- Verifying Employment Contracts and Labor Records
The UID number is necessary for verifying employment contracts and labor records in the UAE. Employers and government agencies use it to confirm legal employment and update labor files.
- Use in the Educational Sector
Enrollment in schools, universities, and training programs in the UAE demands a UID number. It links students to education records and identity verification by confirming the residency records. Institutions use UID with Emirates ID to maintain accurate academic profiles throughout the student’s educational journey.
- Filing Health Insurance Claims and Linking Medical Records
It is a must for filing health insurance and linking medical records in the UAE. Hospitals, clinics, and insurers use it with the Emirates ID to verify patient identity and access medical histories. This way it helps to keep accurate healthcare billing and secure record management.
- Applying for Police Clearance Certificates
A Unified Identity Number is required when applying for police clearance certificates and background checks in the UAE. It connects with law enforcement databases and ensures accurate screening.
- Checking Traveling Status
The UID number helps you in checking travel bans, overstay fines, and legal status. Immigration authorities use it to track violations. You can access official portals to verify bans or fines using your UID to avoid unexpected legal issues.
- Accessing the Government Portals (ICP, GDRFA, eChannel)
It gives access to UAE smart government portals like ICP, GDRFA, and eChannel. These platforms manage visa, residency, and personal data services. By linking your UID with Emirates ID, users can track official transactions efficiently from anywhere using a verified digital identity.
- Use in Business Registration (Mainland and Free Zones)
The UID number is used for registering businesses in both jurisdictions, the UAE mainland and free zones. DED and specific freezone authorities require a UID and an Emirates ID for processing trade licenses, renewing permits. In short, it helps investors easily set up a business in the UAE.
- Facilitating Real Estate Transactions and Lease Agreements
The UID number is essential for real estate transactions and lease agreements in the UAE. It links tenants or buyers to legal and residency records, supporting identity verification. Authorities like Ejari use UID with Emirates ID to register leases, authorize rentals, and validate property deals, ensuring secure and lawful property transfers.
- Supporting Trade Filings
The UID number is used in customs processes and import/export declarations in the UAE. It links business and individual identities with trade documents. Customs authorities require UID and Emirates ID to verify shipments, authorize goods clearance, and process trade permits, ensuring legal compliance and efficient cross-border business operations.
- Helping Immigration authorities
It plays a key role in managing family sponsorships and dependent visas in the UAE. By linking the sponsor’s residency status with their dependents’ records, it helps Immigration authorities to ensure legal identity across family members.
- Tracking Job Applications via MOHRE
The UID number is used to verify applicant identity and monitor the application status in the UAE. It helps to check applications submitted through MOHRE as links to employment files. It also helps in managing recruitment records, confirming eligibility, and ensuring transparency in the job search process.
- Preventing Identity Fraud and Ensuring Data Security
The UID number prevents identity fraud and secures personal data in the UAE by uniquely identifying individuals, reducing duplication and false identities. Its link with Emirates ID and official records ensures only verified users access services, supporting government cybersecurity systems and maintaining trust across public and private platforms.
What is the process for getting a UID Number in the UAE?
Before we proceed, let me clear one thing: there is no separate application process for a UID number; it is automatically generated by the system, but in the Process below, you will explore at which stage of the emigration process you will get assigned. Additionally, the UID number is permanent. It remains the same even if your visa or passport changes. Store it securely for use across all major government and legal services.
Issuance on First Entry
The immigration system automatically generates a Unified Identification Number (UID) as you enter the UAE on a residency visa. The visa can be of any type, including employment or family sponsorship. This UID number is linked to your immigration file and is created at the port of entry.
Visa Stamping and Emirates ID
After entry, you must undergo medical testing and submit an Emirates ID application. Your residency visa will then be stamped in your passport. During this process, your UID becomes embedded across all official records. You can find it printed on your visa page and later on your Emirates ID card.
Online Retrieval of UID
Use official UAE government portals, including the ICP Smart Services Portal or GDRFA Dubai, for UID number Inquiry, if you need to verify it. You just have to enter your passport number, nationality, date of birth, and gender. That’s it, just click submit, and you will see the UID number provided there.
In-Person Assistance
If your UID is missing, duplicated, or not generating properly, and you have applied all the above ways, then you can visit an authorized immigration office where staff will merge, correct, or manually assign your UID.
- GDRFA Headquarters, Al Jafiliya, Dubai
- GDRFA Service Center, Dubai Airport Terminal 3
How many UID Numbers are allowed?
One UID number is allowed to be acquired by every individual, which is generated automatically when a person first enters the country. It remains permanent and must be used for Emirate ID and Visa renewal Applications.
However, in rare cases, a person may be assigned multiple UID numbers due to data entry issues or duplicate visa processing. This situation is considered an error and must be corrected.
How to Merge Multiple UID Numbers?
You have to merge UIDs if you have been assigned more than one UID number to avoid issues in immigration, visa, and Emirates ID services. Follows the below structured process, which is free of charges:
- Identify the duplicate UIDs
- Visit the nearest immigration office or use online portals
- Submit the below required documents
- Valid passport (original and copy)
- All visa copies (current and expired)
- Emirates ID copy (if issued)
- Printout of both UID numbers (if available)
- Request UID merge service
- Receive confirmation
How to Recover a Lost UID Number?
To recover a lost or forgotten UID number, you can use several methods. The method you choose depends on which emirate you are in, what documents you have. The process of inquiry is simple and does not require visiting immigration offices in most cases. You can use any of the 4 methods below:
- ICP Smart Services Portal (All Emirates)
- GDRFA Website (Dubai Only)
- Checking on a Visa Copy
- Contacting the Immigration Helpline
- Visiting the GDRFA headquarters (rarely used)
What are the Common Problems with UID Numbers?
The problems with the UID number in the UAE often include duplicate creation, incorrect passport linkage, or missing records. Some profiles may mistakenly share UIDs due to common names or errors in typing centers. Others face system failures where UIDs don’t display online or fail to generate upon entry. These issues delay visa processing, ID issuance, and access to services. However, Immediate action and accurate records help prevent this. Some of the common problems are
Common Problems with UID Numbers in the UAE
- Duplication occurs due to the visa glitches
- Sometimes it links to the old passport data, displaying online results from outdated records, entry errors, or unlinked immigration files.
- Mismatch between UID and Emirates ID causes residency renewal failures and service rejections.
- UID used by another profile occurs from shared names or reused passport data in old files.
- The delayed UID merge process halts visa stamping, ID renewal, or change of immigration status.
- System entry errors by typing agents lead to long-term UID complications if left uncorrected.
- No access to the past UID record happens when re-entering the UAE under a new visa without recovery
Do all emirates have a separate Unified Identity Number?
No, all Emirates do not have separate UID numbers, but they share the same UID system. The Unified Identity Number (UID) is a federal identifier issued by the UAE immigration system, not by individual Emirates. It is assigned by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) based on your first visa entry into the UAE.
Differences Between UID Number and Visa Number
The difference between a UID number and a visa number is that the UID is an identification code for an individual, while the visa number identifies a single permit. Not only that, but also, the UID is permanent, while the visa number changes with updates such as renewal. Some major differences are provided in the table below:
| Feature | UID Number | Visa Number |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Unified Identity Number | UAE Visa Number |
| Purpose | Permanent personal identity reference across the UAE | Identifies a specific visa or entry permit |
| Issued By | UAE Immigration (ICP or GDRFA) | Respective Emirate’s Immigration Authority |
| Format | 9-digit numeric code | Usually starts with a 3-digit Emirate code (e.g., 201 for Dubai) |
| Changes | Stays the same for life | Changes with each new visa issuance or renewal |
| Used For | Emirates ID, residency tracking, official identity matching | Visa tracking, renewal, cancellation, and entry permits |
| Linked With | All Emirates and federal identity systems | Only linked to the current visa |
Differences Between UID Number and Emirates ID Number
The difference between the UID number and the Emirates ID number is seen in their function, source, and areas of use. The purpose of UID is to link the individual to immigration records, while the Emirates ID connects them to civil services and national databases. Some of the worthy differences between the two are provided in the table below.
| Feature | UID Number | Emirate ID |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Unified Identity Number | Emirates Identity Card Number |
| Purpose | Permanent immigration identity reference | Official national ID number used for civil and public services |
| Issuing Authority | UAE Immigration (ICP or GDRFA) | Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) |
| Format | 9-15 digit numeric code | 15-digit numeric code |
| Changes | Never changes | Stays the same unless you update it |
| Used For | Visa processing, immigration file, Emirates ID application | Government services, banking, telecom, healthcare, and legal use |
| Tied To | Immigration database only | Civil ID database and biometric records |
