How to Check UID Number in UAE Online (Step-by-Step)
If you are UAE resident currently working in the UAE, or planning to move to the UAE in the future, knowing about your UID number UAE is very important. A UID number in the UAE is an exclusive identification code that is generated automatically by the UAE immigration system when you first arrive in the UAE. This number helps in tracing all your immigration records, visa history, and residence across all the Emirates.
Many UAE residents often get confused between the ‘UID number UAE’ and the ‘Emirates ID Number’, but these two terms are completely unrelated to each other. The Emirates ID is issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP), while the UID number is issued earlier in the immigration process and is always linked to you permanently. Even if you change visas, jobs, or travel out of the country and return back again, your UID Number in UAE remains similar throughout.
Whether you are applying for a residence visa, trying to resolve any duplicate accounts, sponsoring anyone, or even checking your immigration status in the UAE, your UID number is indeed an important reference. In this blog, let’s discuss in detail about the UID number, what it stands for, how to check it online and why it matters. Let’s get started!
What is a UID Number in UAE?
UID stands for Unified Identification Number. It is a Unique Identification Number assigned to every individual who enters the UAE. It is automatically assigned to you by the immigration system when you first enter the UAE on a visa (tourist visa, visit visa, residence visa, employment visa, etc.). This number is assigned to you for life, regardless of the number of visas you change. The UID number is assigned by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Importance of UID Number in the UAE
- Permanent Immigration Identity – Your UID (Unified Identification Number) is a permanent identification number given to you when you first enter the country. It will always be the same even when you change your visas, employers, and sponsors.
- Issued by Immigration Authority – It is issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs.
- Required for Residence Visa Processing – Your UID will be required when you are processing your UAE residence visa.
- Important for Emirates ID Application – Your Emirates ID application will be linked to your UID, ensuring your identity is correctly recorded in the system.
- Tracks Visa History – Your UID will keep a complete record of all your entries, exits, visas, renewals, and cancellations in the UAE.
- Prevents Duplicate Records – Your UID will be used to avoid any duplicate records of your visas and identities.
- Supports Status Changes – Your UID will be required when you want to change your visa, status, sponsor, and visa cancellation.
- Important for Business Owners & Employees – Your UID will be required when you want to form your business and apply for an employment visa.
- Ensures Compliance with UAE Regulations – Your UID will be important in ensuring transparency in the UAE immigration system.
What is the Unified Identification Number Used For?
Your UID number is important for:
- Applying for a residence visa in the UAE
- Processing your Emirates ID
- Changes in visa status
- Visa renewals or cancellations
- Tracking immigration records
- Resolving problems with duplicate visas
- Your UID number connects your visa records under one identity.
How to Get a UID Number in UAE?
A UID number (Unified Identification Number) in the UAE is automatically generated by the immigration system. You do not need to apply for it manually.
Here’s everything you need to know:
- The UID number is issued automatically by the UAE immigration authorities. There is no separate application form or fee for obtaining a UID.
- It is generated when you first enter the UAE (on a visit visa, tourist visa, or residence visa), and the system creates your UID number. It is linked to your passport details.
- You can check it through the official portal of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).
- Your UID remains the same even if you change jobs, sponsors, or visa types. It does not change if you exit and re-enter the UAE.
- If you have never entered the UAE before, you will not have a UID number yet. The number is created only upon your first official entry.
Your UID number appears on:
- Your visa copy
- Your entry permit
- Immigration documents
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How to check your UID number online?
You can check your UID number UAE on the official immigration website.
Steps:
- Visit the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) official website.
- Click on Unified Number Inquiry.
- Enter your details as follows:
- Passport Number
- Nationality
- Date of Birth
- Click search.
- Your UID number will be displayed.
Note: For Dubai visas, you can check your UID number on the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai website. For other emirates, you can check your UID number on the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) website.
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Need Expert Advice?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is UID the same as Emirates ID number?
No. The UID (Unified Identification Number) is your immigration number issued when you first enter the UAE. The Emirates ID number is issued separately after your residence visa is approved and is used as your official identity card in the UAE.
Can I have two UID numbers?
No, ideally you should only have one UID number in the UAE. However, duplicate UID numbers can sometimes occur due to system errors or multiple visa entries. In such cases, you must request the immigration authorities (GDRFA or ICP) to merge the duplicate records.
Does UID number expire in UAE?
No. Your UID number is permanent and does not expire. It remains the same throughout your lifetime, even if you change your visa, employer, sponsor, or leave and re-enter the UAE.
Where can I find my UID number?
You can find your UID number in the following places:
- Your UAE visa copy
- Your entry permit
- Immigration-related documents
- Online through official UAE immigration portals
What does UID stand for in UAE?
UID stands for Unified Identification Number. It is a unique number assigned by UAE immigration authorities to track all your visa and immigration records under one identity.
How can I check my UID number online in UAE?
You can check your UID number online by following these steps:
- Visit the official GDRFA (Dubai) or ICP (other emirates) website
- Go to the Unified Number Inquiry section
- Enter your passport number, nationality, and date of birth
- Click on search to view your UID number
Is UID number required for Emirates ID application?
Yes. Your UID number is required during the Emirates ID application process. It is used to link your immigration records with your identity information in the UAE system.
Is UID number the same for all Emirates?
Yes. Your UID number is valid across all Emirates in the UAE. It is a centralized immigration identification number that remains the same regardless of where your visa is issued.
Do tourists also get a UID number in UAE?
Yes. A UID number is generated for every individual entering the UAE, including tourists and visitors. It is created automatically when you enter the country on any type of visa.
Why is UID number important in UAE?
The UID number is important because it:
- Tracks your complete visa and immigration history
- Prevents duplicate records in the system
- Is required for residence visa and Emirates ID processing
- Helps in visa renewals, cancellations, and status changes
Can I change my UID number in UAE?
No. Your UID number cannot be changed as it is permanently assigned to you. However, if there are duplicate UID numbers, they can be merged by the immigration authorities.
