How to Check Your UID Number Online in UAE?

What is UID Number?

The UID Number displayed on your visa is part of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security’s (ICP) records. The number is used to identify a person entering the UAE for any reason (employment, tourist, dependent, etc.) for immigration records. The UID number was introduced along with the Emirates ID in 2010. The number that remains the same, even if you change visas.

Every expatriate who visits the UAE or lives in the UAE is bound to be granted a visa by immigration authorities that includes a file number, issue date, and period of validity. In addition, ‘UID number’ is included on the visa. The UID Number is a unique six-digit number that is automatically assigned to all visitors to the UAE. It is linked to your immigration records and used during all subsequent visa applications and for Emirates ID processing.

If you do not have a UID number yet and are not able to find it online, you can go to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and get it there. 

Where can you find your UID Number?

Emirates ID is replacing visa stickers on the expatriate’s passport. If you have recently renewed your residence visa and have been issued your emirates ID, Here is a step-by-step guide to check your UAE UID number online:

1. Visit the website www.gdrfad.gov.ae
2. From the home page click on “E-services”
3. From the option displayed, click on  “Find my UID”
4. It takes you to a unified number inquiry service page. There, you will have to fill in information:
   • your passport number
   • nationality
   • date of birth
   • gender

5. Once you are done filling your personal information, press “Submit”.
6. Then you will find your UID number.

Why do you need a UID Number?

The UID number is needed to complete various official processes like checking your visa status or updating details related to your official documents.

It is essential for issuing the offer letter from MOHRE and renewing the labour contract, applying for new Emirates ID or renewal and changing the visa.

It is also required for tourist visa change for those who came to UAE on visa on arrival.

What can you do if you have 2 UID Numbers?

If you have previously visited the UAE and now reside here on a family visa or work visa, all of these documents will likely have the same UID number. However, there might be occasions when you are issued more UID numbers under your name.

It might be difficult for someone to obtain a visa if they have more than one UID number, because their application might be returned citing multiple UID numbers as a reason.

However, in case if you have 2 UID numbers, you can apply for the merging service through the immigration authority in the Emirate or through a service provider that is registered to provide such a service.

Hence, in Dubai, you would need to apply for the service through an Amer centre or through a typing centre that is registered with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (Dubai).

In other Emirates, you can apply for the service by visiting a typing centre that is registered with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP).

What are the Documents required for UID Numbers merging?

Here is a list of documents you need to submit for the request:

• Passport copy including signature page
• Old and current visa copies
• Cancellation paper, if you have recently had a visa cancelled
• UID numbers that require merging

How to apply for the service online in Dubai?

The service in Dubai can be applied for through GDRFA Dubai’s website.

The website provides a Smart Services Form, which can be accessed here: https://smart.gdrfad.gov.ae/Smart_OTCServicesPortal/SmartServicesForm.aspx?GdfraLocale=en-US

Once you are on the service page, follow these steps:

1. Under service category, select ‘Merge/Unmerge UID number’.
2. Once you select the option, you will see a form appear below, requiring you to enter your details.
3. Enter your name in English. The system will automatically fill in the Arabic spelling of your name in the next field.
4. Enter your UID number, which is also referred to as the UDB number on the website.
5. Under request details, Muhammad advised applicants to provide details of the two UID numbers that have been issued as well as any file number that may be applicable.
6. Enter your mobile number and click on ‘Validate mobile’. You will then receive a one-time password (OTP) on your phone which you need to enter to verify your contact number.
7. Enter your email address and click ‘continue’.
8. You will then be asked to upload copies of your entry permit or visa that may have different UID numbers.

Once you have completed this step, submit the application.The request will be processed within two to three working days and is free of charge.