If you are residing in the UAE, having a Residence VISA and an Emirates ID is mandatory. The Emirates ID, issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security, is a crucial document that verifies your identity across all seven emirates of the UAE.
All UAE citizens and residents are legally required to apply for an Emirates ID and carry it at all times. With a valid Residence VISA and Emirates ID, you can live in any emirate, regardless of where the ID was originally issued.
The identity card contains essential information in its electronic chip, including the holder’s basic details, photo, biometric data, and fingerprints. While this makes it highly significant, there’s more to it than just that. Here are five ways the Emirates ID simplifies life (and can save you money in some cases):
You can withdraw cash from an ATM
Several banks across the UAE offer convenient services for customers using their Emirates ID. For instance, Emirates NBD customers can withdraw cash using the Emirates NBD mobile app by generating a code on their phones, which they can then use at ATMs.
Meanwhile, Mashreq Bank allows customers to perform various transactions like account openings, bill payments, and updates to personal information simply by presenting their Emirates ID. At Mashreq ATMs, customers can see their existing bank cards on the screen, offering options such as cash withdrawals, local and international transfers, and requests for cheque books and statements.
Additionally, Emirates IDs can be used for cash withdrawals and transfers through Al Hilal Bank’s ATMs.
You can use your Emirates ID at DXB Airport’s E-Gates
The smart gates at Terminal 3 of DXB airport offer automated self-service border control using advanced facial recognition technology. These gates match travelers’ faces with data from immigration databases, identifying whether they are UAE Nationals, GCC Nationals, UAE residents, or visa-on-arrival guests.
To use your Emirates ID at these smart gates, simply swipe your card and face the green light at the gate. It’s important to remove glasses and hats before proceeding through the gate.
You can travel visa free to certain destinations
UAE residents with a Residence VISA and Emirates ID can travel visa-free to several countries. Additionally, many countries provide visa-on-arrival options for UAE residents.
List of countries where UAE Residents with can travel VISA Free are:-
- Sri Lanka
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Georgia
- Jordan
- Bahrain
- Kuwait
- Lebanon
- Kuwait
- Lebanon
- Oman
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- Thailand
- Brunei
- Indonesia
- Japan
- Kazakhstan
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Philippines
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Fiji
- Cook Islands
- Seychelles
- Egypt
- Mauritius
- Morocco
- South Africa
You can pay for fuel at petrol stations
Did you know you can pay for fuel at petrol stations with your Emirates ID?
To use your Emirates ID for fuel payments, first download the ADNOC Wallet. Once installed, link your Emirates ID to the app and deposit funds into your account.
At ADNOC petrol stations, when refueling, insert your EID into the card slot and follow the prompts on the screen to complete your payment.
Additionally, with an ADNOC Wallet linked to your EID, you can make purchases at ADNOC Oasis convenience stores and pay for car wash services as well.
You can get loads of discounts
One of the most enjoyable perks of having an Emirates ID is accessing discounts throughout the UAE. Many hotels and attractions offer special deals for residents—all you need to do is show your EID.
Moreover, there are numerous free activities in Dubai available on your birthday when you present your Emirates ID.
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UAE residents can save on tickets to Aquaventure Waterpark. Available to book online, tickets for those with an EID can book a ticket slashed by up to 40% off Dhs395.
Emirates ID holders can enjoy a discounted flight experience at iFLY Dubai in City Centre Mirdif, priced at Dhs175 instead of Dhs220. This offer is exclusively available online, and you must present your EID upon arrival at iFLY.
You can use your Emirates ID as your health insurance card
If you happen to forget your health insurance card during your next visit to the doctor’s office, you can present your Emirates ID instead. Medical providers accept Emirates IDs for processing medical insurance.
You might also like: Digital Emirates ID: How to access the digital version of your Emirates ID for free
