How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Emirates ID in UAE 2026: Step-by-Step Fees & Process

Aug 10
4 min read

Losing your wallet in Dubai is a rare occurrence, but when it happens—or when your Emirates ID card gets damaged—the immediate panic of being without your primary identity document can feel overwhelming. Your Emirates ID is required for everything from entering government buildings to processing medical insurance claims and accessing bank accounts.

Fortunately, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has made the replacement procedure straightforward and largely digital. In this updated 2026 guide, I break down the exact steps, required documents, official replacement fees, and express processing options to get your new card in hand as quickly as possible.

Step 1: Report the Lost or Damaged Card Immediately

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The moment you realize your Emirates ID card is lost, stolen, or physically damaged beyond repair, you must formally report the incident. Deactivating or flagging the missing card prevents unauthorized misuse and opens the official channel for re-issuance.

For lost or stolen cards, you should visit an ICP Customer Happiness Centre or report the loss via the official ICP smart app. If the card was lost under suspicious circumstances or stolen, obtaining a police report via the Dubai Police app or nearest police station is recommended.

ICP Notification: Deactivate or report the card status via the ICP smart app or customer service desk.
Digital Copy Access: Access your digital Emirates ID immediately via UAE Pass or the ICP app.
Police Loss Report: Request an official loss certificate online through the Dubai Police portal if required.

Downloading your digital Emirates ID via the UAE Pass or ICP app immediately gives you a valid digital copy while your physical replacement is being printed.

Step 2: Submit the Replacement Application Online or In-Person

Once the loss is logged, you can submit the replacement application. Applications can be completed entirely online via the official ICP portal, through the ICP smartphone application, or in-person at an accredited Amer Centre or Typing Centre across the UAE.

You will need your original valid passport, residence visa details (for expats), and a recent passport-sized photograph with a white background adhering to ICP specifications.

Applying via ICP Smart Channels

Log in to the ICP app using UAE Pass, select 'Issue Replacement for Emirates ID', confirm your personal details, and upload the required photo and passport copies.

Applying via Amer or Typing Centres

If you prefer in-person assistance, bring your original passport to any accredited typing centre. Staff will complete the online form and process the payment on your behalf.

Official Replacement Fees Breakdown (2026)

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The cost of replacing a lost or damaged Emirates ID is standardized by ICP regulations across all emirates. Fees vary based on whether you opt for standard processing or urgent express service (Fawri).

Below is a detailed comparison of replacement fees as of August 2026.

Service Type	Replacement Fee Breakdown (AED as of Aug 2026)	Processing Time
Standard Replacement (ICP App)	AED 300 (Card Fee) + AED 40 (Service Fee)	2 to 3 Business Days
Standard via Typing Centre	AED 300 (Card Fee) + AED 70 (Typing & Service Fee)	2 to 3 Business Days
Express / Urgent Service (Fawri)	AED 300 (Card Fee) + AED 150 (Fawri Express Fee) + Service Fees	24 Hours (Same Day at ICP Centers)

Biometrics Verification and Express Collection Options

In most cases where biometrics (fingerprints and facial scan) are already registered in the ICP database, you will not need to repeat the biometric capture process. The system simply re-prints your card using existing records.

If you select the Express (Fawri) service, you can pick up your printed physical card within 24 hours directly from designated ICP Customer Happiness Centres, such as Al Barsha in Dubai or Khalifa City in Abu Dhabi.

Express Collection: Available for UAE nationals and resident expats seeking urgent same-day processing.
Emirates Post Delivery: Standard applications are delivered directly to your registered address or P.O. Box via SMS tracking.

Essential Tips While Waiting for Your Physical Card

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While waiting for your replacement card to arrive via courier, you do not have to put your life on hold. Federal law recognizes digital identity cards generated through official UAE government applications.

Ensure your UAE Pass account is fully verified so you can present your digital Emirates ID QR code for airport transit, healthcare appointments, and telecommunication services.

UAE Pass App: Generate an authenticated digital ID copy accepted across public and private sectors.
ICP Digital Pass: Download a PDF copy of your Emirates ID replacement application receipt.
Bank Notifications: Update your bank via their mobile app using your temporary digital ID document.

Keep your UAE Pass verified—the digital Emirates ID card inside the app is legally recognized for government and commercial transactions across the UAE.

FAQ

How much does it cost to replace a lost Emirates ID in 2026?

Replacing a lost Emirates ID costs AED 300 for the card replacement fee plus AED 40 to AED 70 in service and typing fees for standard delivery. Express 24-hour service incurs an additional AED 150 fee.

How long does it take to get a replacement Emirates ID?

Standard replacement takes 2 to 3 working days with courier delivery. If you use the express Fawri service at an ICP Customer Happiness Centre, your new card is printed within 24 hours.

Do I need to redo my biometrics for a lost Emirates ID replacement?

No, if your fingerprints and photo are already stored in the ICP database, you do not need to redo biometrics for a replacement card application.

Can I use my digital Emirates ID while waiting for the physical replacement?

Yes, your digital Emirates ID available on the UAE Pass app and ICP app is legally recognized and valid for official use across the UAE.