For millions of businesspeople, tourists, and expatriates, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home, and for legal and administrative reasons, they require official identification. The UID Number UAE, is an important component of identity in the immigration and residency system, it is a special identification number given to each person entering the UAE on a visa. Most people have no idea what the UID number is, why it is important, or where to find it, even though it is essential for many formal procedures.

In this blog, we will discuss all you need to know about the UID Number UAE, including its definition, importance, and easy ways to locate it.

What is the UID Number in the UAE?

The acronym for Unified Identification Number is UID. It is a special nine-digit number that is issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the United Arab Emirates. At the time of their initial visa stamping or entry, every person entering the United Arab Emirates—whether for work, residence, visit, or tourism—is given a UID number.

Key Characteristics:

• Permanent: Even if your passport or visa number changes, your UID number UAE stays the same for all entries and visas.
• Unique: There is no duplication because it is connected to your identity and biometric information.
• Non-transferable: It can’t be shared and is only assigned to one individual.

Understanding the UID Number in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates’ immigration, residency, and administrative systems rely heavily on the UID Number UAE. It is important for efficient record management and identity verification in different public and private sector procedures.

Main Uses of the UID Number in the UAE

1. Immigration and Resident Tracking: All immigration records, such as visa applications, entry and exit records, and resident permits, are merged under the UID number.
2. Visa Processing and Renewals: It guarantees smooth verification and processing while streamlining visa applications, extensions, and renewals for citizens, tourists, and families.
3. Link to the Residency Documents and Emirates ID: Your Emirates ID and UID are closely connected, combining official identity with personal information to facilitate simple access to government services.
4. Access to Public Services: To verify eligibility and facilitate service access, the UID number is necessary for basic services like healthcare, education, taxes, and social benefits.
5. Business Registration and Compliance: Especially in free zones, entrepreneurs depend on their UID numbers for business setup, licensing, and compliance with UAE laws.
6. Administrative Efficiency: By expediting communications with government officials and cutting down on bureaucratic hold-ups, the UID improves administrative processes.
7. Fraud Prevention and Security: The UID contributes to the prevention of identity fraud and guarantees a safe and dependable administrative framework by acting as a unique identifier.
8. Smart City and Digital Integration: The UID number backs creative city projects that combine digital payments, utilities, and transportation as part of the UAE’s e-government plan.
9. Accurate Record Management: It keeps personal and immigration records current, reducing mistakes and enhancing confidence in both public and private dealings.
10. Government Transactions and permissions: The UID streamlines several bureaucratic procedures by facilitating applications for official approvals, residency documentation, and government permissions.
11. Commercial and Real Estate Transactions: The UID facilitates effective data interchange in commercial contracts and real estate transactions, resulting in quicker and more secure transactions.

What is the UID Number in the UAE Used For?

The UAE’s immigration and administrative systems rely heavily on the UID Number UAE. It is a special resource for anyone dealing with both public and private organisations. This is how it’s frequently used:

1. Monitoring of Immigration and Residency

The UID ensures accuracy and system efficiency by connecting all immigration records, such as residency permits, entry/exit histories, and visa applications.

2. Applications for and Renewals of Visas

The UID streamlines verification for both new and renewed visa applications, enabling authorities to easily monitor applications and approvals.

3. Emirates ID and Legal Records

Your UID ensures a single profile for all government services and legal processes since it is linked to your Emirates ID and residency credentials.

4. Public Service Access

The UID ensures eligibility and makes it easier to obtain necessary government services, such as healthcare, education, and taxes.

5. Company Formation & Adherence

In order to register their enterprises, acquire trade permits, and adhere to UAE legislation, entrepreneurs must have a UID. Additionally, it helps to ensure trade transparency and track corporate activities.

6. Prevention of Fraud and Security

By connecting official records, the UID improves security measures and lowers the possibility of identity theft and unauthorised access to private information.

7. Digital Services & Smart Cities

The UID facilitates easy integration with cutting-edge services, including digital payments, online banking, and transportation systems, as part of the UAE’s e-government ambitions.

8. Commercial and Real Estate Deals

The UID minimises approval and verification delays by ensuring safe and effective processing of commercial contracts and real estate transactions.

9. Effectiveness of Administration

By serving as a central point of reference for government-related procedures, the UID reduces bureaucratic delays and enhances service delivery in a number of sectors.

Importance of UID Number in the UAE

There is more to the UID number UAE than just a random identification number. It is essential to your dealings with different public and private organizations in the United Arab Emirates. The following justifies its significance:

1. Residency and Immigration Records: Your immigration file is linked to your UID number. This number is associated with all of your immigration transactions, entry and exit records, and UAE visa history.
2. Visa Applications and Renewals: Your UID number is required to access your records, whether you are renewing an existing visa or applying for a new one. It guarantees data continuity throughout visa cycles.
3. Emirates ID Linking: Your UID number UAE is cross-checked when you register for an Emirates ID. Any inconsistencies could prevent your Emirates ID from being issued or delay it
4. Health Insurance and Medical Records: The UID number is used by many UAE hospitals and insurance providers to access patient records, particularly for foreign nationals.
5. Police Clearance and Legal Procedures: The UID assists in precisely tracking down your official records if you need a Police Clearance Certificate or are involved in any legal proceedings.
6. Residency Transfers: Your UID number guarantees that your data is transferred correctly if you change employers or your visa category (for example, from employment to investor).

What Does Your UID Number Represent?

Your UID number UAE, which contains vital information about your visa and residency status, is situated above your UAE visa number.

1) Code Emirate

The Emirate issuing the visa, as indicated by the first three numbers:

• Abu Dhabi: 101
• Dubai: 201
• Sharjah: 301
• Ajman: 401

The numbers on Abu Dhabi and Sharjah visas are frequently followed by a forward slash.

2) Issue Year

The visa’s timeline is shown by the next four numbers, which stand for the year it was issued.

3) Residence Number (Visa Number)

In official applications and government procedures, the remaining seven to nine digits stand for the visa or residency number.

How to Get a Unified Number in the UAE

You can ask for help directly if you haven’t gotten your UID number UAE yet or are having trouble finding it using the online portal.

You can reach them by phone at the following numbers:

• 8005111 is the toll-free number in the United Arab Emirates.
• The international phone number is +971 4 313 9999.

If you have direct questions, you can also use the GDFRA website’s contact form. For additional support, you can also go to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) headquarters in Al Jaffliya, Dubai.

Visit the webpage at https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae/en/contact-information for additional information.

How to Find Your UID Number in the UAE

There are different ways by which you can get your UID number UAE, if you are not sure where to look. These are the most typical methods:

1. UAE Visa Sticker (Stamped in Passport)

Upon issuance of your UAE visa, a sticker is typically applied to your passport. This visa sticker has the UID number printed on it; search for the 9-digit number next to “UID No” or a similar label.

2. GDRFA Website (Dubai Residents)

GDRFA portal can be used to find your UID number if your visa was issued in Dubai:

Steps:

• Go to https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae, the official GDRFA website.
• Go to “Services” > “Establishment Services” > “Find the UID number.”
• Enter the information from your passport (such as number, nationality, and type of visa).
• After submitting the form, your UID number will appear on the screen.

3. ICP Smart Services Portal

Not just those living in Dubai, the ICP provides an online system for locating your UID for all UAE citizens.

Steps:

• Go to https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae, the official ICP portal.
• Select “File Validity” under “Public Services.”
• Enter your nationality, visa type, and passport number.
• You can view your visa details, including the UID, by clicking Search.

4. Via Typing Centres

Authorised typing centres in the United Arab Emirates can access immigration records. Walk in with your passport and get your UID number; there is typically a small fee for this service.

5. Ask Your Employer or PRO

If you work in the United Arab Emirates, your UID number UAE will be accessible to your employer’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), particularly when you apply for a visa.

6. Check Emirates ID Application

If you have recently applied for an Emirates ID, your UID number may appear on the application form or acknowledgement receipt.

What if You Have More Than One UID?

Duplicate UID numbers are possible but rare. This can happen if:

• There is a name change or a second nationality, for example, you entered the UAE using a different passport.
• You were granted a new one with new paperwork after your visa was revoked.
• There were administrative mistakes while processing visas.

Consequences of Duplicate UIDs:

• Visa applications being denied or delayed
• Issues with the issuance of Emirates IDs
• Problems with legal procedures or health insurance

How to Fix It:

Apply through GDRFA or ICP to merge your UID numbers. The procedure could include:

• Going to the GDRFA/ICP service centre
• Providing a copy of your passport, visa, and both UID numbers
• Making a “UID merge” request through a typed application
• Awaiting a resolution in 2 to 5 working days

UID Number vs Emirates ID Number

Most people mistake the Emirates ID number for the UID number UAE. The difference is as follows:

Parameter	UID Number	Emirates ID Number
Issued by	GDRFA / ICP	Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship
Purpose	Visa and immigration tracking	National ID for all residents
Format	9-digit number	15-digit number (784-XXXX-XXXXXXX-X)
Permanency	Permanent even after visa changes	Changes if residency is renewed or reissued
Usage	Visa applications, entry-exit records	ID verification, bank/KYC, utilities

Documents Linked to the Unified Number in the UAE

The UID number UAE is a special identification number that is connected to a person or organisation across all of the government’s systems.

Because it facilitates the simplification of procedures like immigration, healthcare, and legal services, it is important in both personal and professional interactions. The following are some important documents related to the UAE’s Unified Number:

• Emirates ID Visas and Permits for Residency
• Permits for Work
• Health Benefits
• Taxes, business records, and driver’s licenses
• Pensions and Social Services

How Dubai Firmz Can Assist You

You are prepared to relocate to the United Arab Emirates now that you know what a unified number is and how to locate one. It can be difficult to navigate the UAE’s immigration laws, particularly for visitors. Dubai Firmz is available to assist you if you want a business setup in UAE Free zone.

Dubai Firmz can assist in getting you started. The process of establishing your company and acquiring UAE residency can be made easier by our professionals at Dubai Firmz.

We provide expert help with work, family, residency and golden visas. We can assist you if you have any questions or require professional advice on establishing your company in the United Arab Emirates. Make an appointment for your complimentary consultation with our professionals. You can contact Dubai Firmz by phone at (+91) 9555307788 or by emailing business@dubaifirmsetup.com.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)