Lost Your Emirates ID? How to Report It and Get a Replacement in the UAE
By Thasmiya
Losing your Emirates ID can be stressful, but getting a replacement in the UAE is relatively straightforward.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) provides a dedicated service for [lost or damaged Emirates ID cards](https://www.whatmatters.ae/post/lost-your-emirates-id-in-the-uae-here-is-how-to-get-a-replacement). You can apply digitally through the ICP website or UAEICP app, or visit an authorised service centre.
Here’s what UAE residents need to know about reporting a lost Emirates ID, replacement costs, required documents and how long a new card takes.
## **First: Report Your Lost Emirates ID**
If you realise your Emirates ID is missing, do not simply wait to see whether it turns up.
ICP states that cardholders should report the loss to an Emirates ID service point **within seven days of becoming aware that the card is lost**.
This is important because your Emirates ID is a key government identity document used across banking, healthcare, employment, travel-related processes and government services.
If someone finds a lost Emirates ID, ICP advises that it should be handed to the nearest Emirates ID service point or police station rather than retained.
## **[How to Apply for a Replacement Emirates ID](https://www.whatmatters.ae/post/renew-emirates-id-online-2027-complete-step-step)**
The [easiest option is to apply](https://www.whatmatters.ae/post/apply-emirates-id-yourself-uae-step-step-guide) through the official ICP replacement Emirates ID service.
You can also use the UAEICP smart application, an authorised typing centre or an ICP Customer Happiness Centre.
The online process is straightforward: log in using UAE Pass, select the service for replacing a lost or damaged ID card, complete the application, provide any requested documents, pay the applicable fees and submit the request.
Once the application is processed, the standard replacement card is delivered through an authorised courier. Urgent applications are collected through ICP service centres.
## **What Documents Do You Need?**
ICP’s current service page lists a **passport and personal photograph** among the documents for the replacement service. Proof of UAE residence may also be requested where applicable.
Some information may already be available to ICP through government-linked systems, meaning you may not have to upload every document manually.
Requirements can differ depending on whether you are a UAE citizen, GCC national or UAE resident, so check the documents displayed for your category when applying.
## **How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Lost Emirates ID?**
The current ICP fee for replacing a lost or damaged Emirates ID is **AED 300**.
For applications using the smart service, ICP also lists a **AED 100 smart service fee**, bringing the standard listed cost to **AED 400** through that channel.
If you need the card urgently, ICP offers an expedited service at its service centres for an additional **AED 150**.
Additional charges can apply depending on the application channel or if other services, such as updating card information, are required.
## **How Long Does a Replacement Emirates ID Take?**
ICP currently lists a **five-day service completion period** for the standard lost or damaged Emirates ID replacement service once the requirements are fulfilled.
ICP’s service guide also describes an urgent service through its centres with completion in approximately **24 hours**, subject to eligibility and fulfilment of the requirements.
If you need your Emirates ID urgently for travel, banking, employment or another important procedure, ask an ICP Customer Happiness Centre whether the expedited service is suitable for your case.
## **Will Your New Emirates ID Have a New Expiry Date?**
No.
A replacement card is issued with the **same validity period as the lost or damaged Emirates ID**.
For example, if your missing card had one year remaining before expiry, receiving a replacement does not restart its validity period.
If the ID is already due for renewal, you may instead need to complete the relevant renewal procedures.
## **Can You Track the Replacement?**
Yes.
After submitting the application, you can track your Emirates ID status through ICP using your application number or Emirates ID number.
ICP also allows applicants to check requests through their account under their applications or requests.
Use the official ICP Emirates ID status checker to follow the application.
## **What If You Find Your Old Emirates ID Afterwards?**
If you find the original card after reporting it lost and applying for a replacement, do not assume you should continue using it.
Contact ICP for guidance and use the newly issued replacement once the process has been completed. This avoids problems associated with attempting to use a card that has already been reported missing.
ICP’s UAE call centre is **600 522222**.
## **What If Your Emirates ID Is Damaged Instead?**
The same ICP replacement service covers both **lost and damaged Emirates ID cards**.
If your card is physically damaged, its chip stops functioning because of misuse, or it becomes unusable, you can request a replacement. ICP notes that a card with a manufacturing defect may be replaced free of charge after assessment, while damage caused by misuse requires the normal replacement process.
## **Quick Guide: What to Do If You Lose Your Emirates ID**
Report the loss to an Emirates ID service point within seven days.
Apply for a lost/damaged card replacement through ICP’s website, UAEICP app, an authorised typing centre or Customer Happiness Centre.
Provide the required identification documents.
Pay the AED 300 replacement fee plus the applicable service charges.
Choose urgent processing at an ICP centre if necessary.
Track the application through ICP.
Once issued, your replacement card will carry the same expiry date as the lost card.
## **Why This Matters**
Your Emirates ID is one of the most important documents you carry as a UAE resident.
If it goes missing, acting quickly reduces the risk of complications and ensures you can restore access to services that depend on your physical ID.
The key is simple: **report the loss promptly, apply only through official ICP channels and keep your application details until the replacement arrives.**
## **Source Credits**
Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), UAEICP Smart Services and UAE Government official resources.
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