Why linking your phone number to your Emirates ID matters

In the UAE, it's important that your Emirates ID card is linked to your registered mobile number. This requirement facilitates access to various government services. For instance, when you register for a service, a One-Time Password (OTP) is sent to the registered mobile number linked to your Emirates ID. If the registered number is not your own, you'll need to change it to use these services seamlessly. This is particularly important for individuals involved in business setup in UAE, as many business-related processes require seamless access to government services.

The mobile number is registered to your Emirates ID during the application process. It's advisable to use your own valid mobile number to avoid any confusion or issues later. This guide will help you update or change the registered mobile number in your Emirates ID.

For those involved in DMCC company formation, having a valid mobile number linked to your Emirates ID is crucial for business setup, license applications, and seamless access to government services.

Advantages of linking your phone number to your Emirates ID

A phone number linked to your Emirates ID offers several advantages that enhance convenience and accessibility. Here are some of them:

  1. Integrating your phone number provides seamless access to the online services of Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA). These include checking the validity of your Emirates ID, requesting a replacement card, or updating your personal details with ease.
  2. It enables you to receive SMS notifications from the ICA, keeping you informed about the status of your Emirates ID application, renewal, or replacement. This ensures you remain updated at every stage of the process.
  3. Your phone number serves as a reliable method for verifying transactions that require an OTP, adding an extra layer of security and convenience to various interactions.
  4. Linking your phone number allows you to verify your identity through the UAE PASS app, granting you secure access to a wide range of online services.

Additionally, entrepreneurs engaged in company formation in Dubai should ensure their Emirates ID is linked to a valid mobile number, as it is essential for handling administrative procedures efficiently. This is particularly relevant for those applying for the UAE Golden Visa, as smooth access to government services plays a crucial role in the application and approval process.

Changing your registered mobile number in Emirates ID online

Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) Smart Services portal at https://icp.gov.ae/en/.

2. Navigate to the Data Update / Update Personal Information section and click Start service.

3. Select your current nationality. Depending on your nationality, you will be prompted to specify additional information, for example, your Identity number or File type (Visa or Residency). Authentication is required (logging in using UAE Pass is recommended).

about id

4. If you select Residency, choose either Inquiry By File Number or Inquiry By Identity Number.

5. If you select Visa, choose either 4 Sections Number or 3 Sections Number (Dubai).

6. Fill out the remaining fields specifying your full name, passport number, Emirates ID number, date of birth, last entry date, and your email.

7. Proceed to the mobile number data page and check your current registered mobile number displayed here.

8. Enter your new mobile number and get an OTP code to confirm.

9. Fill in your address and check the captcha box.

10. Review all entered details and make necessary edits before moving to the next step.

11. Make the necessary payment. The current fees for changing the mobile number is AED 53.

After the payment, you will receive a verification email with the payment slip. You can track the status of the number change application on the website. It usually takes from 2 to 7 days to have your new number updated. However, based on current practice, updates often occur within a few hours to 1 day.

Changing your registered mobile number in Emirates ID using the UAEICP App

Alternatively, you can use the UAEICP mobile app to change your registered mobile number:

  1. Download the UAEICP app and Log in using UAE Pass.
  2. Navigate to the ID Card section and select Data Update / Update Mobile Number.
  3. Fill in all the required personal information, including your Emirates ID number and expiry date.
  4. Choose Residency under File type and Emirates ID under ID type.
  5. Enter your Identity number, Passport number, Email address, and click the Next button.
  6. Check your current registered mobile number displayed here.
  7. Enter your new number and send an OTP to confirm.
  8. Make the payment and wait for a confirmation message via your mobile phone.

Use your reference number from the confirmation message to track the status of your Emirates ID update.

Changing Your Registered Mobile Number through an Accredited Typing Center (Amer/Tasheel, etc.)

This is a popular option in practice, where an operator submits the request through the ICP Smart Services portal.

  1. Visit an accredited typing center (such as Amer or Tasheel).
  2. Provide the operator with your Emirates ID, passport, and the new mobile number.
  3. Pay the center’s service fee, which is typically 50–70 AED (in addition to any official government fees).
  4. Receive SMS confirmation from ICP when the request is processed.

Use your reference number from the confirmation message to track the status of your Emirates ID update.

Remember to update your personal information, especially your mobile number, on your Emirates ID to ensure seamless access to services. The process to change or update your registered mobile number is straightforward and can be done through the ICP Smart Services portal, UAEICP mobile app, or by visiting a Smart police station.

Aidina K.

Get instant help updating your mobile number in the UAE.

Contact on WhatsApp

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to change the mobile number on my Emirates ID?

The fee for changing the mobile number online is AED 53. Typing centers may charge an additional service fee of 50–70 AED. It will take from 2 to 7 days

Can I change my mobile number on my Emirates ID in person or only online?

You can personally visit any ICP service centers in the UAE with your Emirates ID, visa, and passport copy. Also, you can change your mobile number by visiting a Smart police station.

How do I change my mobile number on my Emirates ID at a kiosk?

Visit any ICP happiness center near you. You may wish to call at 600522222 for further information regarding the conditions and possible fees at a specific center.

How long does it take to update the mobile number on the Emirates ID?

Once you've completed the process and made the payment, it typically takes between 2 to 7 working days for your new number to be updated. However, updates often occur within a few hours to 1 day through the portal or typing centers. In a Smart police station, the update is usually performed immediately, though conditions and possible fees depend on the specific center.

Can I use any mobile number for my Emirates ID?

It's recommended to use a mobile number that you personally use and check regularly, as various smart services and confirmations are linked to this number.

Can I use a foreign mobile number for my Emirates ID?

Only UAE mobile numbers can be linked to your Emirates ID. If you're using a SIM card from a different country, it's necessary to get a UAE mobile number. It is essential that the UAE number used is active and registered to the user, otherwise OTPs and official notifications will not be received.

How can I check the mobile number registered with my Emirates ID?

You can check the registered mobile number by logging into your ICP account on the website or mobile app and navigating through the personal information section.

What if I enter the wrong mobile number while updating?

You can correct it during the review step before making the payment. After payment, if you realize the error, you may need to redo the process.

What if I lose the mobile phone with the registered number?

You should update your Emirates ID with your new mobile number as soon as you can. This will ensure that you continue to receive necessary OTPs and other communication.

Remember, keeping your Emirates ID updated with your current mobile number is a crucial aspect of living and working in the UAE. This ensures smooth access to government services, easier identity verification, and prompt communication. So, if you've recently changed your mobile number, make sure to update it on your Emirates ID at the earliest.

Elena O.

Got a question? Our expert is ready to help!

We will contact you within 1 business day to analyze your case, provide solutions, and calculate costs.

Get an expert support

Fill in your contact details, and we’ll get back to you soon

Contact us on WhatsApp

Clients speak about us

Discover more about Emirabiz from genuine customer reviews

  • Smooth and speedy process from the initial contact to the final visa approval. Wale was super helpful and professional and always answered promptly all my questions.

  • Emirabiz is a red carpet service worth paying for and I want to thank Helen and her team for her dedicated support and her amazing follow-through. To launch a business in UAE and get…

  • Hi, I am Eric, from France. I am very satisfied by the work performed for me by Emirabiz. I was based in Saudi Arabia last year and I wanted to create my Company in UAE. I did everything…

  • Local Consultancy is quite simply excellent at what they do and the services that they provide. Business owner Elena is completely hands on, looking after my needs as a client personally,…

  • Strongly recommended! I needed to setup a company in the free zone and I ended up in the right place. Natela and Natalia were super helpful in assisting me in the process from the beginning…

  • Amazing company to work with. Very fast and efficient. Got all of our Paperwork done and visas + Emirates IDs in a very timely manner. Princess was wonderful and always followed up with me…

  • It's one of the best services that I received. I keep my relationship with this company for years now. Everything from Visa or Company related matters are resolved here with a very little…

  • From a scale from 0-10 in which 10 is out if this world amazing, Timi and her team deserve a 11! I decided to move to Dubai with my family and Working with Timi was by far the best decision…

  • Emirabiz Consultancy has consistently provided reliable and outstanding service for my visa renewal needs. I've been working with them for years, and I am very happy and satisfied with…

  • I worked with Timi on my golden visa process and she did an amazing job. Everything went smooth and fast! Highly recommend!

  • Assisted me in obtaining my Golden Visa. A big thank you to Parul Parikh for guiding me through the process and for ensuring that my application was successful. Craig

  • I had a wonderful experience with Emirabez. Parul Parikh helped in doing my Golden visa. It was completely smooth and hassle free. It was done very quickly. Parul was very cooperative and…

  • I'd like to thank Mrs. Parul from Emirabiz who has helped me sort out the UAE Residency paper for me. She was incredibly professional, very responsive, knowledgeable about the process, and…

  • Thank you very much for your service. All was done in a short time and in a very comfortable conditions. The level of Anna Soloviova is high. All her explanations and details of new company…

  • Your Service was fantastic and flawless! And a very, very special „Thank You“ for Nadia! She provided assistance to solve problems, responded immediately to E-Mails, amazing customer…

  • I am satisfied with the process, steps and speed of my company incorporation also you helped me a lot and very quickly.Turkey

  • Hi, I meet Natalia Consultant she help me a lot for my business information with quick response great job Natalia.Pradeep, Sri Lanka

  • We were considering options for opening a company in one of the free zones in the UAE and sought preliminary advice from Emirabiz. Consultant Natalia provided the most complete information…

  • I contacted Emirabiz for help in choosing and registering a company in a free zone in the United Arab Emirates. Natalia Maslina, a Business Setup Advisor, provided me with comprehensive…

  • So First of all thank you so much for your continuous help and quick reply for all my questions and doubts about the formation and setups. Also I am recommending this company for everyone…

  • I would like to acknowledge an outstanding customer service and comprehensive business development advice provided to me by Natalia. Her high level of professionalism and thoughtful…