How to Change Emirates ID Photo Online
The Emirates ID is one of the most essential documents for residents and citizens of the UAE. It not only serves as a legal identity but is also required for accessing most government and private services. If your appearance has significantly changed or your current photo no longer represents you accurately, it’s a good idea to update your Emirates ID photo. Although the Emirates ID system has been digitalized in many ways, updating your photo is not available online as of 2025.
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How to Change Emirates ID Photo
How to Change the Photo in your Emirates ID? To change your Emirates ID photo, follow these steps carefully:
- Prepare the Required Documents:
- Original Emirates ID card.
- Valid original passport.
- A recent passport-size photograph that meets ICP specifications (white background, neutral facial expression, high quality).
- Visit the Nearest ICP Happiness Center:
- Locate the closest ICP (Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security) Customer Happiness Center in your emirate “from here“.
- Request a Personal Information Update:
- Approach the customer service desk and request to update the Emirates ID photo.
- Fill out the information update application form provided at the center.
- Submit the Documents:
- Submit the filled form along with your new passport photo and other required documents to the assigned officer.
- Pay the Required Fees:
- You will be issued a new Emirates ID card, so you’ll need to pay a total fee of AED 150, which includes:
- AED 110 (ID issuance)
- AED 40 (service fee)
- Wait for SMS Notification:
- Once your request is processed, you’ll receive an SMS notification informing you when and where to collect your updated ID.
- In most cases, the card is ready within 48 hours.
Where to Change Your Emirates ID Photo: ICP Happiness Center Locations
Once your updated photo and documents are ready, you can visit one of the ICP Customer Happiness Centers across the UAE to request a photo change on your Emirates ID. Below is a list of major centers and their locations:
| Emirate | ICP Happiness Center | Location Details |
|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | Abu Dhabi Main Center | Street 12, near Al Forsan Resort, Abu Dhabi |
| Khalifa Center | Khalifa City A, beside Al Forsan Sports Building, Abu Dhabi | |
| Al Ain Center | Al Jimi Street, opposite the Judicial Department, Al Ain | |
| Mussafah Center | Mussafah Industrial Area, behind Preventive Medicine Center | |
| Al Jazeera City Center | Al Nahyan area, within Al Jazira Sports Club | |
| Dubai | Al Barsha Center | Al Barsha 3, near Saudi German Hospital |
| Al Ghazal Center | Al Bida area, 2nd December Street, in Al Ghazal Mall | |
| Al Rashidiya Center | Behind Rashidiya Council, opposite Mohammed Noor Boys School | |
| Al Nahda Center | Al Qusais, inside Salem Medical Center, behind Grand Car Wash Station | |
| Al Yalayis Center | Dubai Investments Park 2, Al Yalayis Governmental Services Center, First Floor | |
| Sharjah | Sharjah Center | Al Rahmaniya, Airport Street, near Bridge No. 6 |
| Ajman | Ajman Center | Al Jurf, located behind the courthouse |
| Ras Al Khaimah | RAK Center | Al Dhait area, behind the Traffic and Licensing Department |
| Fujairah | Fujairah Center | Sakamkam Street, near Saint Mary’s School, Sakamkam area |
Emirates ID Photo Update Fees
If you’re planning to change the photo on your Emirates ID, the fees vary depending on your residency status and the type of service selected. Below is a breakdown of the applicable charges:
| Category | Fee Details |
|---|---|
| UAE Nationals |
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| GCC Nationals |
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| Non-GCC Residents |
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Required Documents to Update Emirates ID Photo
The documents you need to change your Emirates ID photo vary based on your residency status. Below is a breakdown for Emirate citizens, GCC nationals, and non-GCC residents:
| Category | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| UAE Citizens |
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| GCC Residents |
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| Other Residents |
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Make sure all documents are valid and clearly visible to ensure your photo update request is processed smoothly.
Conclusion
Updating your Emirates ID photo is a simple but important process to ensure your ID reflects your current appearance. While the service is not available online, you can easily complete it at any ICP Customer Happiness Center across the UAE. Just gather the required documents, pay the applicable fees, and expect your updated ID within 48 hours.
Questions & Answers
No, as of 2025, changing your Emirates ID photo cannot be done online. You must visit an ICP Customer Happiness Center in person.
You can update your Emirates ID photo at any ICP Customer Happiness Center located across all emirates including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and more.
You need your original Emirates ID, valid passport, and a recent passport-size photo that meets ICP specifications with a white background.
Fees range from AED 100 to AED 200 based on nationality and card validity, plus AED 40 service fee and AED 30 typing fee.
Once processed, you’ll receive an SMS, and the new Emirates ID is typically ready for collection within 48 hours at the designated center.
Yes, if you’re unavailable, a representative with a valid original power of attorney can submit the application on your behalf at the center.
Yes, for children under 15, you must also submit a birth certificate and a parent’s Emirates ID or passport.
Yes, the photo must be 4.5×3.5 cm with a white background, clear facial features, and no filters, glasses, or head coverings (except for religion).
Yes, you can opt for urgent service at Customer Happiness Centers by paying an additional fee of AED 150 for faster processing.
It ensures your current appearance matches your ID, helping with identity verification during legal, government, and banking transactions in the UAE.