Unified Number (UID) in the UAE

        

Published on December 8th, 2025

A unified number in the UAE is a 9 to 15-digit code given to every resident and visitor. A UID number is required for various government services, such as Emirates ID application, visas, and work permits. A unified identification number is found on your Emirates ID and visa sticker. The UID number never changes and is needed for more private and government services. 

The GDRFA issues the UID number, and it remains permanent even if you renew your visa or change your status from visitor to a resident. If you are planning to set up your business in the UAE, it is vital to understand the UID number, as it is required during the visa process and company registration. 

What is a Unified Number (UID) in the UAE?

 The Unified Identification Number (UID) is automatically generated the first time you enter the UAE on a visa.

• UID Format. 9-15 digits.
• Authority. ICP and GDRFA
• Validity. One permanent UID per person, with lifetime validity.
• What’s its purpose? It links identity data, immigration, and residency in the UAE.

The UID is different from the Emirates ID number and visa number. Together, these three become the backbone of your legal identity in the United Arab Emirates.

How to Obtain a Unified Number (UID) in the UAE?

You do not need to separately apply for your UID number, as it is generated automatically as part of the visa and residency procedure.

Here are the steps of how authorities generate the UID.

Enter the UAE

When you arrive on a residency visa, such as family sponsorship or employment, immigration authorities create your UID at the entry destination. 

Complete Visa Process

After entry into the UAE, you undergo medical fitness tests, submit biometrics, and apply for your Emirates ID. Your UID connects all these steps mentioned above.

Visa Stamping

After the authorities approve your residency, your UID appears on the visa page of your passport or in the electronic residence permit.

Issuance of Emirates ID

Your UID is printed under “Unified Number” on your Emirates ID card. The issued UID number is permanently the same even if you change or renew your visas in the future.

Note: The UID is generated automatically; you can not choose or request it. For any issue regarding the UID, you can contact the GDRFA (for Dubai) or ICP (other emirates) for assistance.

UID for Residents, Visitors, and Businesses

Residents

Every resident in the UAE, whether they are employees or family dependents, has their UID linked to their visas, Emirates ID, and work permits.

Visitors

Every short-term visitor and tourist gets a UID number upon entry. The same UID will remain if the visitor shifts their visa to residency. 

Businesses

Certain businesses also receive a UID number for their trade license corporate documents, though the UID number usually refers to individuals. 

Dependents

Each family member (children, spouse, parents) gets their own UID number, used for healthcare, school admittance, and ID issuance. 

Students

The UID number is linked with a student’s visa, and the universities may require it for admission and other services.

How to Find Your UID on Emirates ID or Visa?

Here is how you can find your Unified Identification number on your Emirates ID or visa.

Check Your Emirates ID Card

Since 2022, the UAE authorities have not stamped the visa in passports. You can also find the UID printed under “Unified Number” on the Emirates ID card. 

Check Your Residence Visa

On your visa page, look for the “Unified Number” printed above the File Number. 

Check Your Electronic Visa

If your visa was issued online, you can check the PDF file and locate the Unified number field. 

How to Find the Unified Number (UID) in the UAE Online?

Here is what you need to know to find the UID online.

• Visit the GDRFA Inquiry Service. Go to the Official GDRFA website.
• Enter Your Personal Information. Provide your personal information:

-Passport number

-Date of Birth

-Nationality

-Gender

• Complete Verification. Answer the security question to prove you are a human. 
• Submit the Form. Click on “Submit” to proceed. 

After the submission, the system will show your Unified Identification (UID) number. Make sure to provide the correct information on your official documents to access your UID. 

Where will You See Your UID?

• Printed under the “Unified Number” on your Emirates ID. 
• Printed above the file number on your UAE residence visa.
• Given in E-visa PDF (for online visa issuance)
• Found on the official GDRFA and ICP portals.

Note: The UID number is also stored in the internal microchip of your Emirates ID. The chip is readable only by an authorised government system and connects your ID card to immigration records. 

What is the Meaning of Your UID Numbers?

You can find your UID number above your visa number, and it carries vital information about you and the nature of your visit to the UAE. The UID number is not created randomly; hence, it is essential to know what each section of the UID means. 

Emirate Code

The first three digits of the UID number show the Emirate that issued your visa. For instance, visas issued by Dubai start with 201, Abu Dhabi with 101, Ajman with 401, and Sharjah with 301. Please note that visas issued by Sharjah or Dubai also include a forward slash after these numbers.

Year of Issue

The next three digits show the date of issuance of the visa, clearly showing the issuance timeline. 

Visa Number

The last 7 to 9 digits at the end of your Unified Identity Number (UID) are your visa number, also your residence number. Moreover, these previous numbers are used for filling out the official government documents in the UAE.

How to Use UID for Government & Daily Service?

You need a UID number for many daily and government transactions. Here is how you can use it. 

Travel & Immigration

• During the Entrance or Leaving the UAE. Immigration, check your UUID number to match your visa history.
• Airport Smart Gates. The security scans your UID with your Emirates ID and passport. 
• For Opening a Bank Account. The bank system needs your UID number to confirm your identity, as given in the Emirates ID card.
• For Applying for Loans and Credit Cards. The UID number ensures all documents match your residency visa status. 

Employment & Labour

For Work Permit & Labour Contract. When an employer applies for a labour contract or a work permit through MOHRE, they need to provide a UID number. 

During the Job Change. During the job change process, the new contract is linked with the same UID, so the history remains the same. 

Property & Utility Services

Registration of Tenancy Contract with Ejari or RERA. During the RERA or tenancy contract with Ejari, a UID number is needed to verify your identity.

Setting up DEWA or Telecom Services. Your UID number links your account to the Emirates ID card when setting up utilities like telecom services or DEWA. 

Healthcare & Insurance

Applying for Health Insurance. During the insurance application, you need to provide your Emirates ID, and a UID is required in order to activate it.

During the Medical Fitness Test. The UID number links the medical test results to your visa application. 

Business Setup

• Trade License or Free Zone Company Registration. During registration of a free zone company or a trade license, your UID is used for confirmation of residency documents.
• Renewal Of Business License. When you are renewing your trade license, UID confirms your identity across all government systems.
• Employees’ Visa, or Registration of Trade License. If you’re applying for an employee visa, opening a bank account, or registering your trade license, you need a UID. It ensures your business activities are correct with the residency documents and ensures compliance. 

Eduction

During enrollment in universities or schools, your UID is needed to complete residency-linked documents and verification of dependent or student status. 

Transport & Driving

• Applying for a UAE Driving License. During your UAE driving application, your UID number links your traffic records to your immigration documents. 
• During registration or Renewal of the Vehicle. During the process, the UID ensures your Vehicle is linked to your Emirates ID profile.

UAE Pass

Your UID number is connected with your national digital identity system (UAE Pass). During registration, your UID helps connect your Emirates ID and allows access to countless government and other official documents. 

How to Merge Your UID Number in the UAE? (If you have more than one)

If you are issued multiple UID numbers due to a system error or various entries in the country, you must resolve this issue quickly. If you have duplicate UID numbers, you can face a visa ban. Delay in issuance of the Emirates ID and issues with official records.

The GDRFA can merge multiple UIDs into one, ensuring your residency records and immigration documents are correct and linked with one number. 

Visit the ICP or GDRFA Office

Visit the nearest Amer Centre or immigration office in Dubai, while for other Emirates, visit an ICP office.

Bring Required Documents

The necessary documents are as follows:

• Original and copies of a valid passport
• Entry visas (active, expired, old, or cancelled) with duplicate UID numbers.
• Emirates ID
• Proof of residency, sponsorship, or employment (in some cases)

Request the Merge Service

Request the merge service through the official portal of the office counter and fill in the application form with personal details.

Pay the Fee

In some cases, you may need to pay a small service fee for processing. 

Get Confirmation

The authority will verify your documents, combine them, and inform you when the process is complete. 

After confirmation, only one UID will remain in the government system, cancelling all duplicate numbers.

Important Notes:

• Processing Time. In most cases, a UID merge request application takes 3-5 working days.
• Significance. Until the application is completed for merging, you can not apply for a new Emirates ID or visa application.  
• Authorities. Dubai residents can contact GDRFA, and the ICP for residents of other Emirates. 

How to Troubleshoot UID Issues?

If you are unable to use or find your UID, here is how you can resolve these issues. 

Incorrect UID Details

• Identify the errors, such as misspelled names, wrong dates, or old passport numbers.
• Bring the necessary documents, which include an Emirates ID, a valid passport, and a visa with correct information. 
• Submit the correction request through GDRFA for Dubai and ICP for other Emirates.

UID Not Found Online

• Provide correct details of your passport, date of birth, and nationality.
• Visit the official website of GDRFA for Dubai and ICP for other Emirates. 
• If still missing call at:

 – Dubai Residents call at Amer Call Centre 8005111

 – Other Emirates residents call the ICP call centre 600522222

Lost Emirates ID Card but Need UID Number

• Use your visa copy as the UID number is printed on both the electronic permit and residence visas.
• Log in to the online GDRFA or ICP portals and enter your passport details to get the UID number.
• Request the UID merge to unify official records before applying for an Emirates ID or a visa.
• Keeping one consistent Unified Identification Number is critical as it prevents identity duplication and fraud. After the merge is done, only one UID remains active in all official residency and immigration records. 

Ending Notes

Understanding the Unified number (UID) in the UAE and how to get it is an essential step before moving to the UAE and starting a business. Keeping an up-to-date UID ensures compliance, helps with smooth business dealings, and helps prevent fraud. 

Understanding the immigration process is complex, especially if you are a newcomer. Let Al Riyady guide you through the whole process and ensure compliance and a smooth journey. From Business setup to getting a UAE Golden Visa and opening a Bank Account, we provide expert assistance. Contact us today and get a free consultation to get started.