What is UID Number in UAE: Your Unified Number Guide
What is UID Number in the UAE? The UID number short for Unified Identification Number is a key part of the UAE’s immigration and identity management system. Whether you’re entering the UAE as a tourist, resident, or for business, this number becomes a core part of your identity in the country. In this guide, we’ll explain what a UID number is, how to find it, its benefits, and what to do if you have multiple UID numbers.
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What is a UID Number in the UAE
The UID number is a 9-15 digit unique identification number automatically assigned to anyone who enters the UAE, regardless of their visa type (tourist, visit, work, or residency). It is issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and remains permanent even if your visa type or residency status changes. This number is essential for linking your records across government platforms, including visa applications, Emirates ID issuance, and residency permits.
Types of UAE UID Number
Here are the different types of UAE UID numbers:
- Unified Number for Residents: This is a permanent, unique identifier assigned to expatriate residents in the UAE. It remains the same regardless of any changes to their residency status.
- Unified Number for Emirate Citizens: This number forms part of the official identity data for UAE nationals and serves as a key identifier on all government-issued documents.
Is UID Number Same as Emirates ID
The UID number and Emirates ID are not the same, but they are closely linked. The Emirates ID is your official identification card in the UAE, while the UID (Unified Identification Number) is primarily used for immigration and visa tracking. The UID is issued by the immigration authority, and it appears within the Emirates ID data. Here’s a clear comparison between the two:
| Feature | UID Number | Emirates ID |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Tracks immigration and visa records | Serves as official personal identification |
| Issued By | GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) | ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) |
| Format | 9-digit number | 15-digit card number |
| Where Found | Embedded in visa and Emirates ID data | Physical ID card |
| When Issued | At time of first UAE visa issuance | After visa issuance or residency approval |
| Remains the Same If… | You renew or cancel your visa | It changes when a new ID is issued |
| Used For | Immigration systems, visa tracking | Daily services: banking, SIM, tenancy, travel, etc. |
What is the UID Number in the UAE Used For?
The UID number in the UAE is essential for various immigration, residency, and administrative functions:
- Immigration and Residency Records: The UID uniquely tracks your entry, exit, visa applications, and residency permits, ensuring all records are accurate and linked in a single system.
- Visa Applications and Renewals: It simplifies the processing of visa applications and renewals by verifying identities and monitoring application statuses efficiently.
- Emirates ID and Residency Documents: The UID connects your personal information with your Emirates ID and residency documents, allowing seamless access to government services.
- Access to Public Services: Your UID helps verify eligibility and facilitates access to healthcare, education, taxation, and other public services.
- Business Setup and Compliance: Entrepreneurs use the UID for registering businesses, obtaining licenses, and complying with UAE regulations, making administrative tasks smoother.
- Administrative Efficiency: The UID acts as a unique identifier, reducing delays and streamlining interactions with government entities.
- Security and Fraud Prevention: It enhances security by reducing identity fraud risks and supporting reliable government record keeping.
- Smart City and E-Government Integration: The UID supports the UAE’s smart city projects by enabling integrated digital services like utilities and smart payments.
- Data Accuracy and Record Management: It ensures personal and immigration data are consistent, accurate, and up to date, improving trust in official and private sector dealings.
- Government Service Facilitation: Using the UID streamlines processes like applying for permits and accessing public services, minimizing bureaucracy.
- Residential and Commercial Transactions: The UID is vital for smooth property transactions and business contracts by securely linking relevant information between parties.
How to Find Your UID Number on Your Residence Visa
Your UID number (Unified Identification Number) is a key identifier used in many official UAE government services:
- Open your passport to the page where your UAE residence visa is stamped.
- Locate the visa sticker it will usually include your photo, personal details, visa category, and other information.
- Look near the top section of the visa sticker.
- Find a 9-digit number labeled as:
- UID No.
- Unified Number
- Or sometimes just shown above the File Number
- This 9-digit number is your UID (Unified Identification Number).
- Note it down or take a picture for easy reference, as you’ll need it for government services like UAE Pass, ICA applications, and more.
How to Find Your UID Number Online
If you don’t have access to your residence visa, you can retrieve your UID number online using the official GDRFA service. [1]
- Go to the official GDRFA website “from here“.
- Locate the Unified Number Inquiry service.
- Fill in the required details exactly as they appear in your passport:
- Passport Number
- Nationality
- Date of Birth
- Gender
- Complete the CAPTCHA or answer a simple math question to verify you’re not a bot.
- After entering the information, click the Submit button.
- If your information matches official records, your Unified Number (UID) will be displayed on the screen.
How to Get a Unified Number in UAE
Getting a Unified Identification Number (UID) in the UAE is an automatic process tied to your residency visa. Follow these steps:
- Enter the UAE on a Residency Visa: When you arrive in the UAE with a visa that leads to residency (such as an employment or family sponsorship visa), immigration officers at the airport, seaport, or land border generate your UID as part of your immigration record.
- Undergo Medical Testing and Apply for Emirates ID: After entry, you must complete the required medical tests and submit your application for an Emirates ID. During this stage, your UID is linked to all your official documents and applications.
- Get Your Residency Visa Stamped: Once your residency visa is approved, it will be stamped in your passport. Your UID number will appear on the visa page, confirming your unique identity in government records.
- Receive Your Emirates ID Card: After processing, you will be issued your Emirates ID card, which will also display your UID number. This card serves as your primary identification document for accessing services throughout the UAE.
Conclusion
The UID number is a vital identifier that simplifies immigration, residency, and government services across the UAE. Understanding its role and knowing how to manage your UID whether finding it, obtaining it, or merging duplicates ensures smooth processing of your official documents and access to essential services.
Questions & Answers
No, the Emirates ID is a physical card that contains your UID number, which is a unique digital identifier linked to your residency and immigration records.
No, the UID number is a unique identification number for residency tracking, while the visa number specifically refers to your visa application or issuance reference.
If you have multiple UID numbers, you should contact the GDRFA or relevant authority to merge them into a single record to avoid issues with your visa and immigration status.
Your UID number is printed on your residence visa and Emirates ID card, usually near the file or application number.
Ideally no, but system errors can cause duplicates; if this happens, you should merge them with GDRFA assistance.
Submit a merge request at the GDRFA website or service center with required documents like your passport and visas.
Yes, every resident with a valid residence visa is assigned a UID number for official identification and records.
Yes, you can retrieve it via the GDRFA Unified Number Inquiry Service by entering your personal details.
No, your UID number remains the same throughout your residency and visa renewals in the UAE.
Yes, the UID number is embedded in your Emirates ID and linked to all related immigration and residency data.
Report the loss immediately and apply for a replacement Emirates ID; your UID number will remain unchanged.