What is the UID number?

The Unified Identity Number (UID) number is a 9-15 digit unique number which is automatically assigned to any person who comes to the UAE either as a tourist or resident.

The number serves as an identification tool in order to differentiate any person who has ever entered the UAE.

UID numbers are issued by The General Directory of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA). The  number is issued once. Even if you renew your visa, or change status from tourist into resident, the UID remains the same. This means that it's a permanent unified number.

For individuals planning business setup in Dubai, understanding UID numbers is essential, as they are often required for visa processing and corporate registrations.

UID and Emirates ID

UID is not the same as Emirates ID, and it is important to distinguish between them. The Emirates ID is a card that functions as an identification document. It is required to access nearly any services in the UAE—renting property (signing and registering your tenancy agreement with Ejari), purchasing a local SIM card, connecting utilities and the internet, opening a bank account, and much more.

The Emirates ID contains the UID.

UID number in residence UAE visa

There are many numbers and codes in the resident visa document that expats may not have given much thought to. The Unified Identity Number (UID) number is one of them. Let’s have a closer look at it. For those involved in business setup in UAE, understanding the UID number is essential, as it plays a key role in visa applications and residency processes.

The UID is located right above the file number in your visa. The combination of numbers is not random—each of them carries a specific meaning. The first three digits of the UID are the code of the emirate that issued the visa, for example, 101 for Abu Dhabi and 201 for Dubai. Next comes the year the visa was issued. The last 7 to 9 digits are your resident visa number. In passport expats previously had the residence visa stamped, but now they only receive electronic visas.

How to check the UID number online

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.

How to get the unified number

If you do not have a UID number in Dubai 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.

There is a branch in DXB Airport terminal 3 or the head office in Al Jafiliya, Bur Dubai: https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae/en/form/contact-us.

Both of them can issue a UID number for you.

The process of obtaining the UID is as follows:

  1. You arrive in the UAE, and a UID is automatically assigned to you right away. It becomes part of your immigration record and will appear in all documents and procedures related to your stay in the United Arab Emirates.
  2. When you receive your resident visa, the UID will be placed above your UAE visa number.
  3. The Emirates ID will also include the unified identity number.

How to merge the UID numbers

It may happen that you get multiple UID numbers. It is a system mistake that can affect issuance of your residence visa. When this happens, there may be an issue with your immigration records, so it's advisable to sort it out immediately.

Don't worry, there is a sure way out. The multiple UID numbers may be merged by the relevant immigration authority (GDRFA) so that you wouldn't end up with more than a single record with the immigration.

Below are the steps to merge the UID numbers:

  1. Visit the immigration office in the UAE: https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae/en/form/contact-us
  2. Carry along the required documents like: your passport copy, entry visa copy (if you have one).
  3. If you have an old, expired or canceled visa, also take them along. They may be needed at the immigration service center for reference purposes.

Importance of the unified identity number (UID)

Just like any other number contained in the UAE visa, the UID number holds a strong significance for the residents of the country for:

  1. Resident visa application
  2. Emirates ID application
  3. Identification of individuals in the immigration system

Additionally, having a UID significantly simplifies interactions with government authorities at the level of government services, as it allows for instant identification and reduces bureaucratic delays.

FAQ

  • What is a UID number?

It is a unique identification number which is automatically assigned to anyone who enters the UAE.

  • Can a person have multiple UID numbers?

Normally no. But if a system mistake happens, multiple UID numbers may be assigned to the same person. In this case you should go to the immigration authorities and ask to merge your UID numbers.

  • Which authority issues UID numbers?

General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs. The main office is located in Al Jafiliya, Bur Dubai.

  • Can the UID change over time?

No, the UID is assigned once upon your first visit to the UAE and remains unchanged throughout your stay, serving as a reference number.

  • Is the UID the same as the Emirates ID?

No, the UID serves as an identification number for the purpose of tracking your immigration history, whereas the Emirates ID is an identity card that allows you to access various public and private services in the UAE.

  • Do the UID number and UAE visa number match?

No, your visa number in UAE and your UID are different. The visa number changes with any updates, such as a status change or visa renewal, while the UID number remains unchanged.

If you are wondering about obtaining a UID, it means you are either on the path to moving to Dubai or are just planning to do so. The expert team at Emirabiz will help you obtain UAE residency, get your Emirates ID card, start your business, open a bank account, and arrange visas for employees and family members. We know all the procedures and stages in detail and will help you navigate them smoothly and with the greatest benefit to you.

Elena O.

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