How to Change Emirates ID Photo Online? (2025 Guide)

How to Change Emirates ID Photo Online? (2025 Guide)
How to Change Emirates ID Photo Online

Emirates ID is a mandatory identification document for living in the United Arab Emirates as a resident. Therefore, it is important to always make sure that your Emirates ID photo resembles your current appearance. If you feel like it’s time to update your old photo due to significant changes in your facial appearance or due to other reasons, then this guide got you covered. Learn how to change your Emirates ID photo and the requirements for the process.

How to Change Emirates ID Photo

To change your Emirates ID photo, you will need to follow the steps below:

  • Prepare the following documents:
    • Original Emirates ID card.
    • Original passport.
    • Recent passport-sized photo meeting official specifications.
  • Locate the nearest ICP Happiness Centre around you.
  • Meet the appropriate officer and request the Emirates ID information update application.
  • Submit the form along with the required documents and the new photo you want to change into.
  • Since you will be getting a new Emirates ID card, pay the Emirates ID issuance fee, which is AED 150 (including the AED 40 service fee).

An SMS will notify you when your updated Emirates ID is ready for collection, typically within 48 hours. 

ICP Centres for Emirates ID Photo Change

Once you get your new photo and the required documents ready, you can visit an ICP center to change your Emirates ID. The table below highlights certain ICP Happiness Centres and where you can locate them:

Governorate  ICP Center  Address
Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi – Main Office Street 12, near Al Forsan Resort, Abu Dhabi.
Khalifa Customer Happiness Center Khalifa City A, next to Al Forsan Sports Building, Abu Dhabi.
Al Ain Customer Happiness Center Al Jimi Street, opposite the Judicial Department, Al Ain.
Mussafah Customer Happiness Center Mussafah Industrial Area, behind the Preventive Medicine Center, Abu Dhabi.
Al Jazeera City Happiness Center Al Nahyan area, at Al Jazira Sports Club, Abu Dhabi.
Dubai Al Barsha Customer Happiness Center Al Barsha 3 district, near the Saudi German Hospital, Dubai.
Alghazal Customer Happiness Center Al Bida area, 2nd December Street, in Al Ghazal Mall, Dubai.
AlRashidiya Customer Happiness Center Al Rashidiya District, behind the Rashidiya Council, opposite Mohammed Noor Boys School, Dubai.
Al Nahda Happiness Center Al Qusais area, in Salem Medical Examination Center, behind the Grand Car Wash Station, Dubai.
Alyalyis Customer Happiness Center Dubai Investments Park 2, Al Yalayes Center for Governmental Services, First Floor, Dubai.
Sharjah Sharjah Customer Happiness Center Al Rahmaniya area, Airport Street, near bridge No. 6, Sharjah.
Ajman Ajman Customer Happiness Center Al Jurf, behind the courthouse, Ajman.
Ras Al Khaimah Ras Al Khaimah Customer Happiness Center Al Dhait area, behind the Traffic and Licensing Department, Ras Al Khaimah.
Fujairah  Fujairah Customer Happiness Center Sakamkam area, Sakamkam Street, next to Saint Mary’s School, Fujairah.

Conclusion

Changing your Emirates ID photo is a pretty straightforward process that can be done at any ICP Happiness Centre. When preparing the new photo, adhere to the ICP photo requirements and specifications to avoid issues with the application. It is important to note that you cannot currently change your Emirates ID online, as the service is yet to go digital.

Questions & Answers

Can I change the photo on my Emirates ID?

Yes, you can update your Emirates ID photo by visiting an ICP Customer Happiness Centre in person.

Can I change my Emirates ID photo online?

No, you cannot change your Emirates ID online. You need to visit an ICP Customer Happiness Centre to update your Emirates ID photo.

What documents are needed to change my Emirates ID photo?

You need your original Emirates ID, original passport, and a recent passport-sized photo that meets ICP specifications.

What is the fee for changing the Emirates ID photo?

The fee for changing Emirates ID photo is AED 150, which includes AED 40 in service charges.

How long does it take to receive the updated Emirates ID?

Typically, you will receive an SMS notification within 48 hours indicating that your updated Emirates ID is ready for collection.

Is it mandatory to update my Emirates ID photo if my appearance changes?

Yes, it's advisable to update your Emirates ID photo to reflect significant changes in appearance to ensure accurate identification.

What should I do if my Emirates ID photo is rejected?

Ensure that your photo meets all the specified requirements and resubmit it. Common reasons for rejection include incorrect size, poor quality, or not adhering to guidelines.