DISCLAIMER
The materials and content provided on this website are for general information only and are not intended as legal advice. Although we strive to provide accurate and up to date legal information, we cannot promise it is error free or that it is suitable for your specific concerns. Therefore, you should contact an attorney to obtain legal advice for any issue specific to your situation. If you use the materials and information provided on this site or links to other websites, it does not create an attorney-client relationship between us or any providers of information you find on this website, and we take no responsibility for any information linked to this website.
The materials and content are provided as-is with no warranty of any kind. We disclaim all express and implied warranties, including the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for particular purpose. Under no circumstances will we or our contributors be liable for any consequential, indirect, incidental, special or punitive damages or list profits, whether foreseeable or unforeseeable, under any legal theory. Some states do not allow the exclusion of implied warranties or the limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation and exclusions may not apply to you.
Please note that the I Am Here Platform is in development and does not represent the final version of the work product. We will continue to update this I Am Here Platform as updates and edits are received across the globe.
Baker McKenzie International is a Swiss Verein with member law firms around the world. In accordance with the common terminology used in professional service organizations, reference to a “partner” means a person who is a partner, or equivalent, in such a law firm. Similarly, reference to an “office” means an office of any such law firm.
Law is generally described as of January 2024.
What is the process for getting a State ID?
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Emirates ID is the legal identity card that all UAE citizens and residents must apply for and carry with them at all times.
To acquire an Emirates ID, the Applicant must fill out a form available under the 'Services' on the website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (link: https://icp.gov.ae/en/). If the Applicant is a UAE National, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) National or a Resident/Expat, the website lists down the required documents and fees required for a potentially successful application (link: https://icp.gov.ae/en/service/apply-for-a-new-id-card-2/).
After submitting the application and paying the service fee (varies with your status in the country), a text message will follow, containing information on when and where the Applicant should register for their Emirates ID.
Once the Applicant has proceeded to the registration centre mentioned in the text message, the Applicant is to confirm their biometric data. If the Applicant is an expat, they have an additional step of completing their procedures for issuing residency.
Finally, the Applicant can collect their Emirates ID from the post office mentioned in the text message.
Additional Source: https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/emirates-id
Where can I find information online about getting a State ID?
To get an Emirates ID, you can find information on the UAE Government website (link: https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/emirates-id) or on the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security Website (link: https://icp.gov.ae/en/service/apply-for-a-new-id-card-2/).
What documents do I have to have to get a State ID? Is there any document that I must have to get an ID?
There are three main types of citizenship statuses in the UAE: UAE Nationals, GCC Nationals and Residents/Expats. The documents required vary on your citizenship status in the UAE, however, a must-have document is an original birth certificate. Although a minor requirement, a photo of yourself is also required: 4.5 x 3.5 cm in size and with a white background. If your Emirates ID application is being done by a third-party, then an 'Original of Agency' certificate is also required by the third-party applying on behalf of the Applicant.
If you are a UAE national or a GCC national and do not have an original birth certificate, you can present the passport of one of your parents or an Emirates ID for those under 15 years of age.
For GCC nationals and Residents/Expats, additional documents include a valid passport and proof of residency. Residents/Expats can accomplish this by showing either a residence permit or that they have received a permit to issue a residence permit. For GCC nationals, proof of residency covers many different aspects which are listed on the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security website (link: https://icp.gov.ae/en/service/apply-for-a-new-id-card-2/).
What if my documents do not have my correct name/address?
You may have to change these details before applying for an Emirates ID.
POTENTIAL SOURCES:
https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/modification-birth-certificate-details
What if I only have foreign documents?
No sources were found that provided an answer to this question.
What happens if my documents are not accepted to get an ID?
Though that does depend on the type of document, the applicant must apply again for the Emirates ID and follow the same steps.
Source:
https://emiratesidstatuscheck.com/emirates-id-status-rejected-to-receive/
Do I have to be a resident of the State to get a State ID?
Emirates ID is an identity card issued by Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship. It is a legal requirement for all UAE citizens and residents to apply for one and carry it with them at all times.
It is mandatory for all UAE citizens and residents to apply for an Emirates ID.
Source:
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/emirates-id
How do I prove state residency? What if I have no permanent residence?
You can reside in the UAE if you are:
- employed by a company in the UAE
- investing in a business in the UAE
- have property in the UAE
- a dependent sponsored by someone who is employed in the UAE, an investor/business owner in the UAE, a property owner in the UAE. Dependents include children, parents, maids on close relatives.
- university students sponsored by their universities in the UAE
- retired residents – in this case, special conditions apply.
Find more information on UAE residence visa here.
Source:
https://u.ae/en/resources/faqs
Will I need a mailing address? What do I do if I am homeless?
https://u.ae/en/resources/faqs
What is the application process? Can I complete it online?
For getting an Emirates ID card, the applicant has to fill the eForm at one of the authorised typing centres or through the online form available on website of Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC). An SMS containing information about when and where to register will follow the application. The applicant will need to proceed to the registration centre mentioned in the SMS to complete the procedures.
Refer to the FAIC website for the application process, documents required and fees for getting an Emirates ID for:
- UAE nationals
- GCC nationals residing in the UAE
- Expatriate residents.
FAIC offers bundled services for newborns and foreign prospective residents arriving into the UAE.
Next, track your Emirates ID application.
Source:
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/emirates-id
Is there an application fee? Is there a waiver option if I cannot afford to pay it?
Yes there is an application fee and no waiver option is listed.
Refer to the FAIC website for the fees for getting an Emirates ID for.
How old do I have to be to apply for a state ID?
Regardless of age, it is a legal requirement for all UAE citizens and residents to apply for one and carry it with them at all times.
Source:
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/emirates-id
Do I need to have a parent/guardian with me to get one?
You don't need them to be physically with you but you would need a parent/guardian to initiate the process on behalf of you.
UAE nationals can apply for their children's passport through General Directorates of Residence and Foreigners Affairs/Citizenship Departments. They can also apply online through the Ministry of Interior's website. Expatriate residents need to apply to their embassy in the UAE.
Source:
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/emirates-id
What if I do not have a parent or guardian who can go with me?
You don't need a parent or guardian to be physically with you during application but you would need a parent/guardian to initiate the process on behalf of you.
UAE nationals can apply for their children's passport through General Directorates of Residence and Foreigners Affairs/Citizenship Departments. They can also apply online through the Ministry of Interior's website. Expatriate residents need to apply to their embassy in the UAE.
Source:
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/emirates-id
What if I am over 18?
You don't need a parent or guardian to be physically with you during application but you would need a parent/guardian to initiate the process on behalf of you.
UAE nationals can apply for their children's passport through General Directorates of Residence and Foreigners Affairs/Citizenship Departments. They can also apply online through the Ministry of Interior's website. Expatriate residents need to apply to their embassy in the UAE.
Source:
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/emirates-id
How long will it take to receive my State ID?
ID card will be issued within 48 hours from the time of submitting the replacement application. Those who applied for the express service will receive the ID card within 24 hours from the time they submit the replacement application. Contact Emirates Post to receive the card after receiving a message from ICA on the availability of the card.
Source:
https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/emirates-id
Are there any special provisions for foster youth?
While adoption is not allowed, eligible Emiratis may embrace and raise a child of unknown parentage, subject to specific terms and conditions. The UAE provides monthly assistance to orphans. Both Emiratis and residents can sponsor the living costs of children under various child sponsoring programmes led by humanitarian entities in the UAE.
Federal Law No. 3 of 2016 Concerning Child Rights, also known as Wadeema's Law (PDF, 250 KB) mentions that a child who is deprived of his or her natural family, has the right to an alternative care through a foster family, or a public or private social welfare institution, if a foster family is not available.
Source:
Ministry of Community Development
Emirates Red Crescent Authority facilitates sponsoring arrangements for the orphans inside and outside the UAE.
In 2010, Zakat Fund launched the 'Orphan's project' to support the families of orphans.
Federal Law No. 2 of 2001 provides for a monthly assistance for orphans of UAE nationals and children from unknown parents.
Are there any special provisions for homeless youth?
No.
Will I have to take a test?
Yes, there is a requirement of passing a Medical Examination.
Source:
Ministry of Health and Prevention - UAE (mohap.gov.ae)
If applicable, do I have to make an appointment to take the test?
Yes, there is an appointment system for the Medical Examination process. Appointment and service location details are as in below link:
Source:
What is the process for getting a driver's license?
In order to obtain a driver's license you would need to be eligible to begin training. This means being medically fit and of the required age, which differs depending on the type of vehicle you are attempting to get a license for. The age requirements are as follows:
- 17 years for motorcycles and for vehicles for people with special needs
- 18 years for cars and light vehicles
- 20 years for heavy vehicles and tractors
- 21 years for buses
You would also need documentation to obtain a driver's license. This includes a valid passport, residence visa, Emirates ID, a valid eye test report from a trusted eye test agent, and in specific circumstances, a letter of no objection from the sponsor.
These documents would need to be presented to one of the registered driving institutes in the emirate you plan to begin training for your license. A few of these registered partners include:
- Belhasa Driving Center - 04 3243535 - Dubai
- Emirates Driving Institute - 04 2631100 - Dubai
- Sharjah Driving Institute - +971 65382020 - Sharjah
- Emirates Driving Company - +971 600 588880 - Abu Dhabi
- Ajman Driving Academy - 06 740 0093 - Ajman
- Fujairah National Driving Institute - 09 - 222 2333 - Fujairah
Once you have registered under one of these institutes, you will begin training. This includes theory classes followed by a theory test, and forty hours of practical training followed by a parking and road practical test. Once those are completed, the institute will produce and official license card which can be used in any emirate.
Sources:
Where can I find information online about getting a driver's license?
The official UAE government portal is a good place to start to find more information about the process to obtain a driver's license. It includes a step-by-step process on where to start, what documents are required, and whether you are eligible to begin training.
You can also look at the official website for the Roads and Transport Authority of the emirate you plan to get a license in. These websites contain lists of registered institutes and eye test specialists.
Sources:
What documents do I have to have to get a driver's license? Is there any document that I must have to get a driver's license?
To get a driver's license, you will need a copy of your passport and residency visa, a copy of your emirates ID as well as the original, a valid eye test report and photographs that can be used to identify you.
Having a valid emirates ID is essential to begin the process of getting a driver's license. Once those documents have been submitted to the driving institute you have chosen, two more essential documents will be made in your name, which include your traffic file and learning permit, which will allow you to drive on the road in the company of a driving instructor. Your learning permit is valid for three months; if you have not completed training within this time the permit must be renewed through the driving institute.
Sources:
What if my documents do not have my correct name/address?
If your documents do not have the correct details on them, you will not be able to obtain a driver's license until those issues are amended.
In the case of an emirates ID having an incorrect information, you would need to present your emirates ID and original passport to a Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Authority (ICP) Happiness Centre to apply and request a change. This process cannot be done online and the individual in question must be physically present or via an original power of attorney (POA).
Sources:
What if I only have foreign documents?
To apply for a driver's license, you will need a residence visa valid in the UAE as well as a valid emirates ID. Both of these are domestic documents that are essential when beginning the process to get a driver's license. With only foreign documents, you will not be able to apply for a UAE driver's license.
However, if you have a driver's license registered in one of the exception countries, you can have your license exchanged, which would mean you would not need to go through any driving classes to begin driving. All that would be required is a valid eye test, valid emirates ID and the original driver's license from the exception country.
Sources:
What happens if my documents are not accepted to get a driver's license?
It would be recommended for you to visit the driving institution you have registered with or inquire via the RTA help center for more information on reasons behind why your documents were not accepted and what can be done to amend them.
Do I have to be a resident of the State to get a driver's license?
In order to begin the process of obtaining a driver's license, you must be a resident of the UAE, as a residence visa and valid emirates ID will be required.
Sources:
How do I prove state residency? What if I have no permanent residence?
You would prove residency by submitting a copy of your residence or employment visa to the relevant driving institute. If you do not have a permanent residence in the UAE, you will not be able to apply for a license, but you would be able to obtain a driving permit if you have an international drivers license.
Sources:
Will I need a mailing address? What do I do if I am homeless?
If you do not have a mailing address, you will be able to collect your driver's license at the driving institute that you have registered with. However, in order to begin the process, you would need to be a registered resident of the UAE, which means that in order to obtain a driver's license you would need to have a registered residence.
Source:
What is the application process? Can I complete it online?
To get a new driving license, you need to:
- Register with one of the authorised driving institutes in the Emirate in which you are resident: Emirates Transport Driving Institute The initial registration can be completed online.
- Go for an eye test at any medical centre approved by the Traffic Department
- Complete theory classes and exam. The theory classes can be completed online.
- Start practical driving classes. The number of classes will be assigned by the driving institute based on your previous driving experience.
- Once all classes are completed, you must take the practical exams (parking and driving)
- After passing the exams successfully, you will be given an approval paper, which will allow you to proceed with getting your license. You need to take your Emirates ID document, your approval paper and your driving license fee and submit it at the pass counter located at the driving institute. You will also need to submit your driving file records which you opened at the start of the process.
- You will then receive your driving license (provided all fees due to the driving institute have been paid).
Notes:
You need to get your license from the Emirate where your visa is issued if you are a foreign national.
Different Emirates have slightly different rules on getting a driver's license in terms of the lessons and the number of hours you need to practice before the exam.
Citizens of these countries can convert their driving license issued in their home country to UAE license without having to take a driving test. Check on RTA website for how to convert a foreign driving licence into a Dubai driving licence.
Getting a driving licence - The Official Portal of the UAE Government
Is there an application fee? Is there a waiver option if I cannot afford to pay it?
The following service fees are payable:
- 100 AED for issuing a driving learning permit for the following categories: motorcycle - light vehicle - light automatic vehicle
- 200 AED for issuing a driving learning permit for the following categories: light bus - heavy bus - light equipment - heavy equipment - heavy vehicle
- 200 AED for opening a traffic file
- 50 AED for the handbook manual
- The electronic eye test at the Eye Test Centres: 140 AED minimum and 180 AED maximum
Driving licence fees:
- 100 AED for issuing a new driving licence if the customer is younger than 21 years old
- 300 AED for issuing a new driving licence if the customer is 21 years old and above
- +20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees
Adding a new category to the driving licence fees:
- 200 AED new licence fees
- +20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees.
However, the total cost of obtaining a license will depend on the institute's standard prices and the type of training you want to enrol in. For example, weekend classes are not the same price as weekday classes. Some people opt for a night class which comes with a different price from the morning or afternoon classes.
By way of example, the Dubai driving license total fee should be between 4,000 AED and 7,500 AED.
If you fail to pass the first road test, you will have to take and pay for an extra seven classes, so your expenses will increase.
There is no waiver option.
How old do I have to be to apply for an state driver's license?
The minimum age requirement to obtain a driving licence depends on the vehicle you are obtaining the licence for. The minimum age requirements are as follows:
- 17 years for motorcycles and for vehicles for people with special needs
- 18 years for cars and light vehicles
- 20 years for heavy vehicles and tractors
- 21 years for buses.
Getting a driving licence - The Official Portal of the UAE Government
Do I need to have a parent/guardian with me to get one?
No, but you may be asked to provide a No Objection Letter from the person or company who sponsors your UAE residence visa or your parent/guardian if you are a UAE citizen.
What if I do not have a parent or guardian who can go with me?
No, but you may be asked to provide a No Objection Letter from the person or company who sponsors your UAE residence visa or your parent/guardian if you are a UAE citizen.
What if I am over 18?
No, but you may be asked to provide a No Objection Letter from the person or company who sponsors your UAE residence visa or your parent/guardian if you are a UAE citizen.
How long will it take to receive my driver's license?
This depends on your prior experience of driving and how quickly you are able to pass the tests.
Once you pass the tests, your driver's license can be issued the same day.
Roads & Transport Authority - Service Details - Apply for a New Driving Licence
Are there any special provisions for foster youth?
No. However, there are alternative ID requirements/options for the following:
For an Emirati passport holder who is without a family book (Marsoom holders)
- Copy of the valid passport
- Copy of the valid "Marsoom"
For an Emirati passport holder who is the son of an Emirati woman
- Copy of the birth certificate
- Copy of the valid passport
- Valid letter from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs stating that the customer's mother is Emirati
Roads & Transport Authority - Service Details - Apply for a New Driving Licence
Are there any special provisions for homeless youth?
No.
Will I have to take a test?
Depending on driving experience (and country in which you received your existing driving license), you may need to complete lessons and pass tests (theoretical and practical). The driving institute you register with will inform you of this.
Typically, you will need to take the following tests:
- Theory test also referred to as the knowledge test comes after attending the classes either online or at the learning centre. This is where you learn about all the basic and important aspects of driving before finally putting it into real practice. The theory test is split into 3 parts which examine your knowledge of:
- general traffic environments
- traffic rules
- risk recognition techniques
It is advisable to practice as much as possible. Using the online resources of your driving school or different RTA platforms like their mobile app and website could be a good way to prepare.
- Parking test
This part of training is specifically geared towards strengthening your parking skills. So the parking test is actually to assess your parking abilities in different dimensions. A full instruction on how to go about various parking is given. If you fail this exam five times consecutively, you may need to go back to the internal testing at your driving school in order to proceed again.
If you pass this test, you go over to the road test. Below are the parking tests to expect:
- Parallel parking
- Slope and hill parking
- Emergency brake
- Garage parking (90 degree)
- Angle parking (60 degrees)
- Road test
Road test is where you put all your knowledge of driving into practice. You will be tested in various ways including how you adhere to the traffic signs and rules. How you handle basic safety measures while driving will also be tested.
You need to be confident while going for the road test so as not to make mistakes. This test is usually the last form of assessments before getting your licence. So, be confident and focused to make the best out of it. It takes roughly between 10 and 13 minutes to complete it.
For all tests, you always need to go along with your Emirates ID or as instructed. Any other information relating to the road test would be communicated to you prior to the day including the road test fee.
Getting a driving licence - The Official Portal of the UAE Government
Emirates Transport Driving Institute (etdi.gov.ae)
If applicable, do I have to make an appointment to take the test?
Yes. This should be done through the driving institute which you register with.
Do I need to get a permit to practice driving before I get my driver's license?
Yes, this is obtained after registering with the driving institute and completing the eye test. It is sent to you as a digital learning permit via SMS and e-mail.
Where do I find out more about obtaining an instruction permit?
Contact an approved driving institute. These can typically be applied for online: Getting a driving licence - The Official Portal of the UAE Government
- Traffic services – Abu Dhabi Police
- Apply for a learning permit – RTA Dubai
- Traffic and licencing – Ministry of Interior
Sources:
How do I get a copy of my birth certificate?
Issuing a birth certificate can be done through visiting a public health centre in the UAE (any public health centre of governmental hospital under the Emirates Health Services) or through an online portal (using any of the channels which include the MOHAP website and smart application). The online portal is quite convenient and quick, as it only requires to apply through a specified channel on the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) website. You will have to complete three steps: Apply for the service through a MOHAP service channel, upload the required documents, and receive the birth certificate.
Source:
https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/issue-an-authenticated-copy-of-birth-certificate
What documents will I need to get my birth certificate?
The only document required is a copy of the original birth certificate.
In Abu Dhabi specifically, the Emirates ID is required.
Source:
https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/issue-an-authenticated-copy-of-birth-certificate
What happens if I don't have some or all of the documents that are required?
If you do not have the required document (original birth certificate), the service title changes from 'Issue of an Authenticated Copy of Birth Certificate' to 'Issue replacement of a Lost Birth Certificate', unless it is a newborn without a birth certificate in the first place, in which case it would be a completely new birth certificate.
To issue a replacement of a lost birth certificate, the service channels/ centres are the same as the service to receive a copy of a birth certificate, yet the difference is the cost, which is 65 AED.
There are also differences in requirements, since issuing a birth certificate in place of an old one requires:
- Copy of birth certificate, if found.
- Copies and originals of both parents' passport.
- Copy and original of the family book for nationals (where the mother is not a national, her passport and valid residence permit are required).
If the person lives abroad, these documents in addition to a power of attorney to a representative to receive this certificate is required.
If one of these are not found, it is recommended that the MOHAP is contacted, to aid with the specific missing document.
Source:
https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/issue-of-a-replacement-for-lost-birth-certificate
Where do I get my birth certificate if I was born in another state?
There does not seem to be a completely different or specific procedure for that, TAMM only highlights additional information (relevant to Abu Dhabi procedures) as the website states that this is a 'Amending a Birth Certificate Request', and requires the birth certificate issued from the country of birth, and a stamp from the Ministry of Foreign Office in the UAE.
Source:
How quickly can I get my birth certificate? Is there a cost?
The service, whether applied for online or through a service centre/ public hospital takes one working day.
To issue a copy of a birth certificate, the cost is 10 AED. To issue a birth certificate in place of a lost one or a completely new birth certificate for a newborn, the cost is 65 AED.
Though the MOHAP portal does not specify the emirates, the TAMM portal specifies that in Abu Dhabi specifically, the cost of issuing a new or copy of birth certificate, or amending it costs 50 AED.
Source:
- https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/issue-an-authenticated-copy-of-birth-certificate
- https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/issue-of-a-birth-certificate
- https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/issue-of-a-replacement-for-lost-birth-certificate
- https://www.tamm.abudhabi/en/aspects-of-life/visaemiratesid/personaldocuments/BirthCertificates/ManageBirthCertificates
Can I order my certified birth certificate online?
Although, a replacement birth certificate within the UAE can be ordered either in person or online.
A person still needs to go in person to submit their required documents.
The required documents are:
- Any copies of the lost birth certificate.
- Original document and a copy of the UAE or national ID card.
- The physical presence of a father or the representative.
- Documents of parents: Mother and father valid passports. Both copies and an original passport is required. OR a valid residence license of parents.
- Copies and original document of parent's marriage certificate.
- Death certificate (if required) In the event of the death of a parent.
- Confirmation letter or document from the police station that the birth certificate has been lost, stolen, or damaged.
- If both mother and father are citizens of UAE, then the original of the family book plus the copies are required.
Hence, the e-system can be used to fill out the form and pay the fees however not to submit the required the documents.
Source:
https://www.uaevisaonline.com/articles/uae-lost-birth-certificate-replacement
What are the fees if I order my certified birth certificate online? Is there a waiver if I cannot afford the fee?
The baseline fee for ordering a birth certificate online is 65 Dirhams.
In regards to the fee being waivered, there has been no mentioned of this on any Government source.
Source:
https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/issue-of-a-birth-certificate
How long does it take to receive my certified birth certificate?
Once all the requirements and forms are fulfilled, the service is expected to take 24 hours.
Source:
https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/issue-of-a-replacement-for-lost-birth-certificate
Is there any special laws or provisions that can help get a birth certificate if I have been in the foster care system?
There is no mention of any sort of special laws or provisions that can help get a birth certificate if one was in the foster care system. Since within the UAE, the foster care system is not a widespread and rather than being a system it is a limited process.
Is there any special laws or provisions that can help get a birth certificate if I am homeless?
There is no mention of special laws or provisions that would help in obtaining a birth certificate if one is homeless.
Where can I find information online about getting a birth certificate?
Information on obtaining a birth certificate online is available on UAE Government websites, specifically the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Health & Prevention website.
Source:
What vital doc should I start with to change my name?
Unfortunately, I could not find a reliable source for this question, but this is what I found so far:
Steps for acquiring the service
- Filling out the services form.
- Signatures of the applicants and the witnesses.
- Signature of Attestation Judge
- Collecting Change of First Name Letters addressed to the General Directorate of Residence and Foreigners Affairs, Abu Dhabi Police General HQ, and one daily newspaper for the publishing of name change declaration.
- After receiving the replies and the passing of 15 days following the publishing day, the attestation can be done
- Collecting the application from the Archive
- Obtaining a waiting ticket.
- Approaching the authenticator to complete the transaction.
- Judges Signature and seal on the declaration.
Required documents
- Submission of the applicant and witnesses Identity Cards or proof of identity for those who are not required to obtain Identity Card, and copies thereof.
- Family book for U.A.E national.
Required information
- Your name as listed on birth certificate or immigration or citizenship documents.
- The full name you are applying to change to (if you are changing your name).
- Date and place of birth
- Marital status and details
- Places of residence for last three months
- Address for Correspondence
How do I change my name on my Birth Certificate?
United Arab Emirates Ministry of Health and Prevention has stated that in order to change the name on a birth certificate, there are a few steps that need to be followed:
- Visit the same Preventive Medical Center from which the original birth certificate was issued with the required documents.
- Submit a request to amend the information on the birth certificate.
- Once the documents and original copies are verified, the birth certificate will be issued.
- The certificate should be collected by the father or his representative.
However, I have not been able to find any information on what steps a person should take if they have no family or no money because the Ministry of Health and Prevention also requires a fee which varies on whether a person is a national or an expat.
Service fees:
- Application fee (nationals): AED 50
- Application fee (expatriates): AED 60 for an Arabic certificate
- Application fee (expatriates): AED 120 for a certificate in Arabic and English
How do I change my name on my State ID?
In the UAE, in order to change or modify any details to an existing and valid Emirates ID card, the card holder must visit one of the Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Ports Security (ICP) customer happiness centres with their original passport and Emirates ID card.
The card holder cannot change any details on the ID online; therefore, they must go to the customer happiness centre. This applies to Emirates ID cards issued to nationals and expatriate residents.
How do I change my name on my Driver's License?
According to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Ministry of Interior (MOI) service centres, the process required to make amendments to your driver's licence data which would also include changing your name, is:
- You need to visit one of the MOI service centres at the at the Customer Happiness Centre or login to the website,
- Select the service,
- Attach the required documents
- Pay the fees.
- Then, the customer receives the driving licence with the amended information.
Requirements for Individuals is an Emirates ID
However, the fees required vary:
- For customers younger than 21 years old
- 100 AED for amending a driving licence data
- + 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees.
- For customers 21 years and older
- 300 AED for amending a driving licence data
- + 20 AED Knowledge and Innovation fees.
How do I change my name anywhere else?
passports:
I tried to research how an individual can change their name on their passports, however, it has been very difficult as the process in the UAE is not as developed as other countries. Therefore, I have been unable to find an information that could be valuable when answering this question.
How do these answers change if I am a minor?
Unfortunately, I am unable to find any information on how a minor can change their name in the UAE.
However, I have found this:
- Only U.A.E nationals with passports issued from the Emirate of Abu Dhabi are entitled to this service and it is exclusive to the first name.
- The guardian of minor children (under 11 years) can submit the application.
What vital doc should I start with to change my gender marker?
No specific document or procedure has been laid down for changing gender marker.
Sources read through:
- https://moi.gov.ae/en/eservices/default.aspx
- https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/emirates-id/updating-details-on-emirates-id#:~:text=In%20order%20to%20modify%20any,card%20cannot%20be%20updated%20online
- https://mohap.gov.ae/en/services/modification-birth-certificate-details
How do I change my gender marker on my Birth Certificate?
No specific procedure is listed to change gender marker on the birth certificate. The general procedure to modify details on birth certificate requires visiting the same preventive Medical Center from where the original birth certificate was issued from with documents such as:
- Original passport
- Emirates ID and residence card
- Original marriage certificate duty attested if the marriage was held outside the UAE
- Original birth certificate (or a police statement if the birth certificate is lost)
How do I change my gender marker on my State ID?
Any changes to the emirates id requires you to visit the ICP customer happiness centre with your original passport and emirates id.
How do I change my gender marker on my Driver's License?
Modiying the driving license data requires the original emirates id and service fee of 100 dirhams.
This service can be excecuted in three ways:
- By visiting the Ministry of Interior Happiness service centres with the required documents and fees
- Online Service through the website - can be used to attach the documents and fee payment.
- Through the Smart Application (MOI UAE app) you can select the service to modify the data, attach the neccessary documents and pay fees.
https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/home/rta-services/service-details?serviceId=3704303
How do I change my gender marker anywhere else?
There is no specific procedure listed to modify the gender marker. Any changes to the same can be attempted by utilising the general procedure used to modify any other data in the document.
How do these answers change if I am a minor?
Unable to find any firm information on the same.
Sources read through: