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UID number in the UAE: Complete guide to the Unified Identification Number (2025)

UID number in the UAE: Complete guide to the Unified Identification Number (2025)
Co-Founder & CEO movingo
Editor
Author
Iakov Kukushkin
Copywriter, Journalist
Jul 03, 2025
In the UAE, residents are assigned an important identification number for interacting with government authorities — the UID, or Unique Identification Number.
We'll explain what it is, how to find it, and why it's important.

What is a UID number in the UAE?

The UID number is a unique identifier that's assigned to everyone who enters the UAE. When you first apply for residency, the General Directory of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) will give you one automatically. This number links a person's information from different government databases, like residency, visa, and immigration records.
This number doesn't change while you're in the UAE, even if your visa gets cancelled or you change it.

What is the UID number in the UAE used for?

  • Linking your immigration records
  • Processing residency visas
  • Managing entry and exit history
  • Ensuring your Emirates ID and visa are connected
  • Avoiding duplication in the system

How to get the Unified Number in UAE

Your UID number is created automatically when your enter the country as a tourist or your residency visa is issued. So, you do not need to apply separately unless there's a mistake or issue with your UID.

What do the numbers in your UID number mean?

The UID number is just a random sequence of numbers and doesn't reveal any personal information. It's used for internal tracking purposes in immigration systems, and it can be anywhere from 8 to 9 digits long.

Why is the UID Important?

Your UID number is important because:
  • It’s necessary to open a company in the UAE.
  • It connects all your immigration and visa records.
  • It ensures your identity is clear in the government system.
  • It avoids delays when renewing or cancelling visas.

UID number vs. Emirates ID vs. Visa number – What’s the difference?

UID is not the only “number” you get assigned when living in the UAE, and it's easy to get them mixed up. Let's take a quick look at how they're different:
If you have any questions about the UAE or anywhere else, just send us a text. We'll help you sort through all your paperwork.

How to find your UID number in UAE on your residence visa

  1. Look at your entry permit (it’s in the UAEICP app, visas are non longer stamped into your passport).
  2. The UID number is usually written as "U.I.D. No".
  3. It is an 8 to 9-digit number.
How to find your UID number in UAE on your residence visa

How to find your UID number online

If you don’t have your visa copy with you, you can check your UID number online:
  1. Go to the UAE GDRFA portal.
  2. Navigate to "Find Unified Number" section.
  3. Enter your:
  • Passport number
  • Nationality
  • Date of birth
4. The system will show your UID number if it’s available
How to find your UID number online

How to correct, update or merge your UID Number?

Sometimes, people receive more than one UID number. This is a problem because you only need one number. If you find yourself in this situation, there are a few things you can do:
  1. Visit a GDRFA office.
  2. Request a UID merge or correction.
  3. Submit your documents.
  4. Pay the required fee.
  5. Wait for confirmation via SMS or email.
OR
  1. Just text us, and we'll take care of everything.

UID number for new expats and visitors

  • If you're a new resident, your UID number will be created with your entry permit.
  • If you're a visitor, a UID is created when your tourist or visit visa is processed.
  • If you later become a resident, your number will remain the same as when you first entered the UAE.

Significance and future of a UAE Unified Number

The UID system is a step toward streamlined digital identity in the UAE. It's helping the government offer better, faster services. And in the future, your UID might be used in more systems, linking it to things like:
  • Residency status
  • Health records
  • Bank information
  • Legal records
  • The UID number is much more than just a visa number; it's the key to your identity in the UAE.
But first, you need to sort out the visa thing to get into the UAE. Are you thinking of taking a vacation in Dubai, starting a business, or settling down with your family? movingo offers professional visa assistance at a reasonable price for all of these situations. How about we give us a call and see how we can help you smooth out the process and make your move to the UAE a bit faster?

UID number FAQ

What to read next

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