Starting a company in the UAE opens the door to immense business potential and access to one of the most thriving markets in the Middle East. But once your business setup is complete, there’s one crucial next step- obtaining your Emirates ID.

The Emirates ID isn’t just a piece of paper with your photo on it. It’s your legal identity as a UAE resident, essential for everything from opening a bank account and leasing property to accessing government services. If you're planning a business setup in Dubai or already have your trade license, this guide will walk you through the complete process of acquiring your Emirates ID efficiently and without errors.

What Is an Emirates ID and Why Is It Important?

Emirates ID is a mandatory identification card issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) to all UAE nationals and residents. For expatriates who establish companies in the UAE, obtaining the Emirates ID is not just a formality—it’s a legal requirement that enables you to live, work, and manage daily life in the country.

It acts as your identity, is linked with your residence visa, and is used in both public and private transactions. Without this card, many routine activities, such as registering your utility connections, signing a tenancy contract, or even getting a mobile SIM card, become impossible.

Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, or company shareholder, the Emirates ID is a necessity right after your company formation in Dubai or anywhere in the UAE.

Who Issues the Emirates ID and What Are Its Key Features?

The Emirates ID is issued and managed by the ICP—short for the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security. This government body oversees the ID issuance process, biometric registration, and verification.

The card includes essential information such as your full name, nationality, date of birth, personal photo, and a unique 15-digit identification number. It also contains an electronic chip that stores your biometric data, which enhances security and facilitates online government services.

What makes the Emirates ID powerful is its integration into the UAE’s digital infrastructure. It acts as your national ID, residency proof, and, in some cases, your access key to immigration gates at airports and border checkpoints within the GCC.

Why Do You Need an Emirates ID After Company Formation?

Once your business is legally formed in the UAE, the next step is acquiring the necessary personal documentation, and this begins with your residence visa and Emirates ID.

Here’s why your Emirates ID is indispensable after setting up a business:

• It completes your immigration process.

• You need it to open a corporate or personal bank account.

• It’s required to register tenancy contracts and lease property.

• It is mandatory for utility connections such as DEWA, Etisalat, and DU

• You’ll need it to sign up for health insurance, register for healthcare services, and even buy a car.

• It is used in all government portals and many private-sector transactions.

Without your Emirates ID, managing business operations and personal matters becomes both time-consuming and limited.

What Do You Need Before Applying for the Emirates ID?

Before you begin the application for your Emirates ID, certain conditions must be met. These prerequisites are especially important for foreign investors and entrepreneurs who have gone through the company formation services in Dubai or other emirates.

First, your business must be officially registered and recognised. This includes having your trade license issued from the relevant authority—be it a mainland, free zone, or offshore jurisdiction. Following this, you must also obtain an establishment card from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). This card registers your company with the ministry and enables it to sponsor visas.

Only after these steps can you initiate the visa process, which is a gateway to obtaining your Emirates ID.

The Role of a UAE Residence Visa in the ID Process

Your UAE residence visa and Emirates ID go hand-in-hand. The Emirates ID cannot be issued unless your visa process is underway. The visa serves as proof that you are legally permitted to live and work in the UAE, and the Emirates ID becomes your official ID tied to that visa duration.

The categories of people who typically require an Emirates ID after setting up a business include:

• Company owners and shareholders

• Business partners listed on the trade license

• Employees under the company’s sponsorship

• Dependents (spouse and children) under a family visa

Whether you are applying for yourself as an investor or sponsoring employees, everyone must individually go through the ID issuance process.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain an Emirates ID

Now that we’ve covered the context, let’s walk through the full step-by-step process to apply for and obtain your Emirates ID after company formation.

Step 1: Get an Entry Permit

The entry permit is the initial approval that allows you or your employees to legally enter the UAE (if not already in the country) or to remain in the country while the visa process is ongoing. It is issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and is typically valid for 60 days.

This document is essential to initiate the medical test and subsequent steps for the Emirates ID application.

Step 2: Undergo a Medical Fitness Test

All applicants over the age of 18 are required to undergo a medical fitness test. The test includes a blood screening and chest X-ray to check for contagious diseases such as tuberculosis or hepatitis.

This test must be done at government-authorised health centres in the UAE. In Dubai, for example, you can visit DHA-approved medical fitness centres. The results usually arrive within one to two days, and a medical fitness certificate is issued, which is necessary for the next steps.

Step 3: Submit Your Emirates ID Application

Once the medical report is available, you can submit your Emirates ID application either online through the ICP website or at an authorised typing centre.

You’ll need to fill out the Emirates ID application form and attach all relevant documents, including:

• A clear copy of your passport

• A valid entry permit

• Passport-size photo with a white background

• Medical fitness certificate

• Trade license copy (if applying as an investor or business owner)

• MOHRE establishment card

The typing centre will forward your application to ICP, and you’ll receive an SMS confirmation.

Step 4: Attend the Biometrics Appointment

After submitting your application, you’ll be notified via SMS about your biometrics appointment. This is a mandatory step for all first-time applicants and includes fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, and iris scanning.

The biometrics process is done at ICP-authorised service centres. Once completed, your biometric data is stored securely in the national system and linked with your Emirates ID and residency record.

Step 5: Get Your Residency Visa Stamped

With the medical and biometric procedures complete, the next step is getting your UAE residence visa stamped in your passport. This is typically arranged through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs or the respective free zone authorities if your company is registered there.

Once the visa is stamped, you’re officially recognised as a resident of the UAE. The duration of your visa, commonly 2 or 3 years, will determine the validity of your Emirates ID.

Step 6: Wait for Emirates ID Delivery

After your visa is stamped, the Emirates ID is printed and sent for delivery. You can either collect it from an Emirates Post branch or opt for delivery to your registered address.

It generally takes 5 to 7 working days for the card to be ready. You can track the progress of your Emirates ID using the ICP portal by entering your application number.

Where Can You Apply for Your Emirates ID?

There are multiple official channels to submit your Emirates ID application. These include:

• Government-authorised typing centres

• The ICP website

• ICP’s mobile applications

• Smart kiosks and customer happiness centres

For those unfamiliar with the process or short on time, working with PRO services in Dubai can streamline the entire procedure. These services handle documentation, scheduling, and follow-ups on your behalf.

Required Documents for Emirates ID Application

To apply for your Emirates ID, ensure that you have the following:

• A scanned copy of your valid passport

• A copy of the entry permit

• Passport-sized photograph with a white background

• Original and copy of the medical fitness test result

• Your company’s trade license

• The MOHRE establishment card

• Emirates ID application form completed through a typing centre

Submitting incorrect or incomplete documents can lead to delays, so make sure all paperwork is accurate.

Cost and Validity of the Emirates ID

The cost of obtaining an Emirates ID depends on the visa category and validity period. Typically, the fee includes the application, typing centre service charge, and ICP fees. Investors and business owners might pay slightly more compared to regular employees due to longer visa durations and additional documentation.

The Emirates ID is usually valid for two to three years and is renewable along with your visa. The longer your visa duration, the longer your Emirates ID remains valid.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Process

Obtaining your Emirates ID is straightforward if you follow the correct steps. However, these are some common mistakes that can cause unnecessary delays or rejections:

• Delaying your medical fitness test after receiving your entry permit

• Submitting blurred or improperly formatted photos

• Providing incomplete or expired documents

• Missing your biometrics appointment without rescheduling

• Not tracking the ID delivery status after visa stamping

Avoid these mistakes by keeping track of all deadlines and working with an experienced consultant if needed.

How Long Does the Emirates ID Process Take?

The average timeline to obtain your Emirates ID after company formation is between 10 to 15 working days. This includes all stages—from entry permit issuance to ID delivery.

You can speed up the process by booking medical and biometric appointments early and ensuring all documents are ready in advance. Opting for premium or express services offered by ICP or a trusted PRO partner can also shorten the turnaround time.

Renewing or Replacing Your Emirates ID

Once your Emirates ID nears expiry, you’ll need to begin the renewal process. Renewals follow a similar path, starting with a medical fitness test and followed by ID reapplication. If you’ve already completed biometrics during the initial application, you won’t need to repeat that step unless your appearance has changed significantly.

In case of loss or damage, you must report it immediately. A replacement application can be submitted, and a temporary card may be issued during the waiting period.

Uses of Emirates ID After You Receive It

Once you have your Emirates ID, it becomes central to your daily life in the UAE. Some of the key uses include:

• Completing governmental formalities, such as traffic fines or immigration services

• Registering for utility services (electricity, water, telecommunications)

• Accessing healthcare services and health insurance claims

• Signing up for digital ID and e-signature services

• Travelling within GCC countries (in place of a passport, in some cases)

• Renting an apartment or commercial space

• Applying for or renewing trade licenses

Final Checklist Before You Apply

Before beginning your Emirates ID application, make sure:

• Your company is fully registered and licensed.

• You have received your entry permit.

• The medical fitness test is completed, and the certificate is obtained.

• All documents are scanned and ready.

• You are aware of your biometrics appointment schedule.

•You’ve selected a preferred delivery or collection method for your ID.

Conclusion: Simplify Your Emirates ID Process with Bizex

Acquiring your Emirates ID is a crucial step after forming a company in the UAE. It serves as your legal identity and unlocks access to a wide range of personal and business services. While the process may seem layered, it is entirely manageable with the right guidance and preparation.

At Bizex LLC, we provide comprehensive support throughout and after your business setup in Dubai, including assistance with your Emirates ID application, visa process, PRO services, and more. Our team of experts ensures that all your paperwork is compliant and your application is processed without delays.

From trade license issuance to receiving your Emirates ID, Bizex is by your side every step of the way. Focus on growing your business, we’ll take care of the formalities.