Emirates ID (بطاقة الهوية الإماراتية) photos must be 40×60mm — the same specification as a UAE passport photo. Plain white background. No glasses. Neutral expression, mouth closed. The card is mandatory for all UAE nationals and residents. The photo requirements are identical for first-time applications and renewals.
The Emirates ID is issued by ICP — the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (formerly known as EIDA, the Emirates Identity Authority). Processing takes 5–7 working days from application submission. Fees range from AED 100 to AED 300 depending on the validity period.
Emirates ID Photo Specifications (40×60mm)
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Print size | 40×60mm |
| Digital equivalent | 472×709 pixels |
| Aspect ratio | 2:3 (width:height) |
| Background | Plain white |
| Glasses | Not allowed |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed |
| Head covering | Allowed for religious reasons; face must be fully visible |
| Head size | Occupying 70–80% of the frame |
| Recency | Within 3 months |
Get a compliant passport photo online
Why the Emirates ID Photo Is 40×60mm
The UAE uses a different standard from most Western countries. Australian and New Zealand passports use 35×45mm. UK passports use 35×45mm. The US uses 50×51mm (a near-square format). The UAE settled on 40×60mm — a 2:3 portrait rectangle — for its national identity system, and this size applies consistently across the Emirates ID, the UAE passport, and the UAE driving licence.
If you have a recent compliant UAE passport photo taken for a current passport, the same photo will meet the Emirates ID specification. The dimensions are identical.
Why the Emirates ID Is Mandatory for All UAE Residents
The Emirates ID is not optional. Under UAE federal law, all UAE nationals must hold a valid Emirates ID. All expatriate residents must also hold one — it's issued as part of the residence visa process. A new resident typically receives their Emirates ID within 5–7 working days of completing the biometric enrolment at an ICP typing centre or approved service point.
The card is accepted as a standalone identity document for government services, banking, healthcare, and most private sector transactions throughout the UAE. Carrying it is legally required for UAE nationals; residents are strongly advised to carry it at all times.
Emirates ID Application Process Through ICP
For first-time applications or renewals, the process runs through ICP's UAEICP app or website, or through approved typing centres throughout the UAE.
New residents
- Enter the UAE on your entry visa
- Your employer or sponsor initiates the residence visa process
- Attend an ICP centre or Smart Service Centre for biometric capture — fingerprints, iris scan, and photo
- The Emirates ID is issued and delivered within 5–7 working days
Renewals
- Apply online through the UAEICP app or an approved typing centre
- Submit or upload your photo (40×60mm spec)
- Pay the renewal fee (AED 100–300 depending on validity; late renewal incurs a fine of AED 20 per month)
- Receive the renewed card by post or collect from an ICP service point
For new applications, ICP typically captures the photo and biometrics on-site. For renewals, you may be required to upload a photo digitally or attend in person — the process depends on whether your biometric data is already in the system.
No Glasses in Emirates ID Photos — No Exceptions
ICP does not permit glasses in Emirates ID photos. This applies to prescription glasses, reading glasses, and any other eyewear. The rule exists because glasses can create glare on the lens surface, cast shadows over the eye region, and partially obstruct the iris — all of which reduce biometric accuracy.
The UAE uses biometric matching across government databases, border entry points, and law enforcement. The Emirates ID photo is part of that system. A photo with visible eyewear will be rejected at ICP.
Head Covering Rules for Emirates ID Photos
The UAE is a Muslim-majority country and ICP accommodates religious head coverings. Muslim women wearing hijab or other Islamic head coverings may wear them in the photo. The face — from hairline to chin, and cheek to cheek — must be fully visible. No portion of the face should be obscured by the covering. Sunglasses and non-religious coverings are not permitted.
Emirates ID Fees, Validity Periods, and Late Fines
| Category | Validity | Fee (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 5 years | 100–200 |
| Adults | 10 years | 200–300 |
| Children under 15 | 5 years | 100–200 |
| Seniors (60+) | Varies | Free (in some cases) |
Fees shown are indicative; the current fee schedule is published on the ICP website. Late renewal fines apply at AED 20 per month.
Getting a Compliant Emirates ID Photo in the UAE
Photo studios throughout the UAE offer 40×60mm prints to ICP specification. Tell the operator it's for an Emirates ID or UAE passport — the spec is the same. Studios near typing centres and government service centres typically have direct experience with the format.
Before submitting, verify your photo with the passportsize-photo.online checker. The ICP system runs automated compliance checks on uploaded photos; a rejection means starting the renewal process again. The checker catches the three most common failure modes — background colour, head size, and lighting — before you submit.
Expression and Appearance Rules for Emirates ID Photos
- Neutral expression — mouth closed, no smile, no frown
- Eyes open — both eyes fully visible, looking directly at the camera
- No glasses — all types banned without exception, including clear prescription lenses
- Hair away from face — forehead and both eyes clearly visible
- Head coverings — permitted for religious reasons (hijab, ghitra/shemagh); full face from chin to forehead must remain visible
- No heavy makeup or accessories — the photo should represent your everyday appearance
- Clean, even lighting — no shadows on face or background
- Recent photo — taken within the last 6 months
UAE Document Photo Size and Requirements Comparison
| Document | Size | Background | Glasses | Smile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emirates ID | 40×60mm | White | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| UAE Passport | 40×60mm | White | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| UAE Driving Licence | 40×60mm | White | Not allowed | Not allowed |
All three UAE documents share the same 40×60mm specification. One photo session covers every UAE document application. The no-glasses rule applies uniformly across all three.
Common Emirates ID Photo Rejection Reasons
- Glasses present — even clear prescription lenses are rejected by ICP's automated system
- Non-white background — off-white, cream, or light blue backgrounds fail
- Shadows on background — uneven studio lighting creates grey patches
- Wrong dimensions — using 35×45mm (European standard) instead of 40×60mm
- Photo too old — must resemble your current appearance; ICP checks against existing records
Quick Checklist for Emirates ID Photo Compliance
- Size: 40×60mm
- Background: white
- Expression: neutral, mouth closed
- No glasses (any type)
- Photo taken within 6 months
- Emirates ID number (for renewals)
- Original passport ready
- Application submitted through ICP app or typing centre
For a full overview of UAE identity documents, visit the UAE documents page.
