UID Number in the UAE: All You Need to Know
Unified Identification (UID) number is a crucial element of residency in the UAE. From residents and tourists to foreign employees, as long as you are a visitor to the UAE, a UID is assigned to you. This article will provide you with everything you need to know about UID numbers, how to find your UID number, how to get one, and other relevant details about the identification system. Get in touch with your major identifier as a foreigner in the UAE and understand the ins and outs of a UID number.
Table Of Content
What is UID Number in the UAE
In the UAE, a Unified Identification number (UID) is basically a unique 9–15 digit identifier assigned to every person with a UAE visa (resident, tourist, employee). UID numbers serve as a permanent digital identity in the UAE ecosystem and do not change even if an individual renews their visa.
Is UID Number Same as Emirates ID
Why both function as an identification medium, UID number is not the same as Emirates ID. Emirates ID is an identification number and document that applies to both immigrants and nationals of the UAE, while UID number applies only to immigrants and visitors to the UAE. Here is a table that better explains UID number and Emirates ID, which includes their shared features, differences, purposes, etc.
| Feature | UID Number | Emirates ID Number |
| Purpose | Tracks immigration, visa & entry/exit history. | Proof of identity for daily services (banks, utilities, travel) |
| Format & Length | 9–15 digits: emirate code + year of issue + visa serial | 15 digits: 784‑YYYY‑#######‑C (UAE code, birth year, random, check digit) |
| Where It Appears | On your visa (above file number), or online via GDRFA/ICA | Printed on the front of your Emirates ID card; available digitally via ICA app |
| Issued By | Immigration authorities (GDRFA/ICA) upon visa issuance | Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship (ICP) after visa process completes |
| Lifetime Validity | Remains unchanged across visa renewals, status changes | Stays the same unless the card is reissued due to changes or expiry |
| Used For | Visa applications, renewals, immigration tracking, government services | Opening bank accounts, SIM registrations, healthcare, travel, official transactions |
How to Find your UID Number on your Residence Visa
As a resident in the UAE, it is common to be requested to provide your UID number during applications, especially those related to visa and residency. Here’s how to easily retrieve your UID number from your residency visa:
- Get your residency visa card.
- Navigate to the top right corner of the document.
- You’ll find your UID number printed above the file number.
The first 3 digits of a UID number represent the emirates where the visa was issued (e.g., 101–Abu Dhabi, 201–Dubai, 301–Sharjah). The next digits take after the year of issuance, while the last 7 to 9 digits are your resident visa number.
How to Find your UID Number Online
Sometimes, reaching your visa document may not always be convenient or possible at the moment. Luckily, you can also access your UID number online via the GDRFA portal. Here’s how to get started: [1]
- Visit the GDRFA Unified Number Inquiry Service webpage “from here”.
- Go to the data entry field and input your passport number in the provided space.
- Select your nationality from the drop-down menu.
- Choose your date of birth using the provided calendar format.
- Select your gender.
- Click the CAPTCHA box (I am not a robot) to verify your authenticity.
- Click the “Submit” button.
- Instantly view your UID number.
How to Get a Unified Number in UAE
UID numbers are automatically assigned during the processing of your visa and residency. However, if you’re having trouble locating your UID number through the online portal, don’t worry; you can trigger some mechanisms to get it.
- Option 1: You can contact the office of the GDRFA directly using their toll-free number within the UAE: 8005111, or if you’re calling from outside the UAE, dial +971 4 313 9999.
- Option 2: Alternatively, you may complete the contact form on the GDRFA website for a direct inquiry.
- Option 3: For in-person assistance, visit the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) headquarters in Al Jaffliya, Dubai.
What is the Importance and Purpose of UID Numbers
UID numbers serve specific purposes that necessitate them amidst the existence of other identification systems like Emirates ID. Here are some purposes and importance of UID numbers in the UAE:
- Unified Immigration Tracking: UID numbers track the entry, exit, visa status, extensions, and renewals of an individual all under one personal ID.
- Visa and Residency Processing: When filing visa applications, renewals, cancellations, and work permits, UID numbers are usually required to facilitate the process.
- Emirates ID Issuance & Linking: UID is typically integrated with Emirates ID to tie identity records cohesively.
- Government & Public Services: In some cases, UID numbers are required for accessing healthcare, education, licensing, utility services, etc.
- Banking & Financial Transactions: As a resident in the UAE, you will need your UID number when opening accounts, verifying identity, and processing loans or financial compliance.
- Business Registration & Licensing: UID numbers prove essential for trade license registration, corporate setups, and compliance checks.
- Security & Fraud Prevention: As a centralized ID system, UID numbers together with identity frameworks such as Emirates ID reduce the risks of identity theft and improve government security systems.
- Smart-City & Digital Integration: Data is vital for technological advancements. Hence, UID numbers are core to smart city initiatives such as e-government, IoT, and unified data platforms.
- Legal & Administrative Efficiency: UID numbers reduce duplication, speed up background checks, and consolidate personal records.
- Healthcare & Insurance Use: As a resident in the UAE, UID links your medical history, insurance, and health records across providers.
Conclusion
Once you enter the UAE, for any reason at all, you are automatically assigned a UID number. To know your UID number, you can check your residency or visa document or visit the UID number inquiry webpage of the GDRFA as discussed in the article. Note that you don’t apply for a UID; it’s automatically issued when you enter or get a UAE visa.
Questions & Answers
A UID (Unified Identification) number is a unique 9 to 15-digit code automatically assigned to every individual upon entering the UAE, serving as a permanent identifier for all official transactions.
Your UID number is typically found on your UAE residence visa, usually located above the "File Number," or on your entry permit. You can also find it through the GDRFA online inquiry service.
Yes, a UID number is assigned to every individual who enters the UAE, regardless of their purpose of entry (e.g., tourist, resident, or employee).
No, your UID number is a permanent identifier and remains the same throughout your stay in the UAE, even if your visa status or type changes.
You can check your UID number online through the GDRFA website's "Unified Number Inquiry Service" by entering your passport details, nationality, and date of birth.
If you cannot find your UID number online, you can contact GDRFA directly by calling their toll-free number (8005111 within UAE) or international number (+971 4 313 9999), or by visiting their headquarters.
No, the UID number is a unique identification code, while the Emirates ID is the physical identity card issued by the UAE authorities. Your Emirates ID card will typically contain your UID.
No, the UID number is a unique, permanent identifier, whereas the visa number (often part of the "File Number" on your visa) is specific to that particular visa issuance and may change with new visa applications.
Having multiple UID numbers can cause complications. You should visit a GDRFA office in person with your passport, old and current visa copies, and any cancellation papers to request a merge of your UID numbers.