Living in Dubai isn’t always sunshine and shopping, sometimes it can be really difficult trying to navigate your way through the government systems, to find the answers you’re looking for. Hopefully, today we make things easier for you by breaking down the different ways you can incur Emirates ID fines, the criteria needed to apply for fine exemptions, and where and how to apply for EID fine exemptions. As well as explaining the new initiative to allow you to renew your EID and passport from anywhere in the world.

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What Can I Get Fined For And How Much Will It Cost?

The official website of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has released a comprehensive list of administrative fines, encompassing penalties associated with Emirates ID, residency services, and matters pertaining to foreigners’ affairs. The list published by ICP outlines various fines, including:

1. Non-compliance with the timely registration and issuance of an ID card, incurring a daily fine of Dh20, up to a maximum of AED 1,000.
2. Failure to renew the identity card within 30 days after its expiration, resulting in a daily fine of Dh20, with a maximum limit of AED 1,000.
3. Provision of incorrect data by the service recipient, attracting a fine of AED 3,000.
4. Typographical errors made by system users during the application process, leading to a fine of AED 100.
5. Obstruction of employees’ work or refusal to cooperate with them, resulting in a fine of AED 5,000.
6. Issuance of visas or entry permits for establishments that are non-operational, carrying a hefty fine of AED 20,000.
7. Improper utilisation of the system, incurring a fine of AED 5,000.

Please note that the information provided above reflects the fines listed on the official ICP website.

Is It Possible To Request Exemption From Fines Related To Emirates ID?

The ICP offers an opportunity for Emirates ID holders to seek waiver of fines if they were unable to renew or obtain their ID cards within the specified timeframe. However, meeting certain conditions is essential to be eligible for exemption. These conditions include:

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1. Residents who have resided outside the UAE for more than three months, or those whose residency expired while abroad or whose ID card validity expired after their departure from the UAE, must provide a travel document as proof.
2. Individuals whose ID card validity expired while abroad due to an executive or judicial decree, or whose passport is detained in a legal case or for renewal purposes, need to provide an official letter from the relevant authorities.
3. Individuals who are bed-ridden, suffering from a contagious disease, or experiencing partial or full disability must present a medical certificate issued by medical authorities.
4. Staff members of diplomatic or consular missions in the country and individuals under their care are also eligible.
5. Elderly individuals above the age of 70 who are unable to visit customer service centers must provide a passport or birth certificate to verify their age.
6. Delays in the registration or issuance of an ID card caused by documentation errors, technical issues with the Emirates ID systems, or mistakes made by staff members or typing offices designated by the Emirates ID.

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How Can I Apply For An Exemption From The Fines?

If you were unable to renew your Emirates ID, you have the option to seek exemption from late fines. However, there are specific requirements that must be met. The ICP had reminded UAE residents in previous years through their official social media channels on April 10, 2022, that important documents such as a copy of the passport and entry permit are essential for applying for the exemption.

To apply for the exemption from late fines, you must meet one of the following criteria:

• Provide your Emirates ID card number.
• Provide contact information, including an active mobile number and email address.
• Submit a valid original passport.
• Submit a valid original entry permit.
• Present a valid original residence visa.
• Provide evidence that supports your request, indicating a valid reason for failing to renew your Emirates ID. It is necessary to have supporting evidence to substantiate this claim.

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How Can I Go About Applying For An Exemption? 

There are three official channels through which you can apply for an exemption. These include:

1. Customer Happiness Centers
2. Typing Centers
3. Smart Services – either through the ICP website or the ICP Smart application

Here’s How You Can Apply For An Exemption Online:

1. Access the system by logging in using your UAE Pass or by creating an account on the website or app.
2. Once you are on the website or app, navigate to the ‘Public Services’ section.
3. Within the ‘Emirates ID’ services, choose the ‘Application for Exemption from Delay Fees’ option.
4. You will be required to submit supporting documents as evidence to demonstrate your eligibility for the fine exemption.

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Is Possible For Me To Renew My Emirates ID And Passport While Outside Of UAE?

Yes, a new service has been introduced in the UAE, enabling individuals to renew their Emirates ID card and passport while being outside the United Arab Emirates. The ICP has implemented this highly anticipated change.

However, there is an essential requirement for individuals to fulfil in order to access this service. The applicant must personally initiate the transaction through the authority’s designated smart application, confirming their ownership of the documents.

In an interview, Nasser Ahmed Al-Abdouli, the Director of Customer Happiness Management at the Federal Authority for ICP, explained the steps involved in renewing ID cards from overseas. He mentioned that individuals residing outside the UAE can utilise the authority’s smart application on their mobile phones. Through the application, they can select the service for renewing ID cards from abroad, submit their application, make the necessary fee payments, and seamlessly complete the transaction. Al-Abdouli emphasised the importance of following the guidelines, especially for citizens, when capturing a photograph for official documents. It is crucial to adhere to the prescribed dress code.

The authority has established nine specific criteria that must be met to ensure the acceptance of personal photos submitted through their smart systems, regardless of the applicant’s age.

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Photograph Criteria Include:

1. Wearing appropriate attire that is in guidance with UAE
2. Head coverings are permitted according to customs and traditions.
3. A white background should be used.
4. The photo should be a high-quality and recent coloured image taken within the last six months, measuring 35-40 mm.
5. The head should be positioned straight and parallel to the camera lens.
6. A neutral facial expression should be maintained.
7. Both eyes should be open and facing the camera, without the use of coloured contact lenses or glasses obstructing the eyes
8. Glasses should not obstruct the eyes or create reflections.
9. The image resolution should be at least 600 dots per inch and free from ink marks or wrinkles.

The authority strongly advises all customers to ensure the accuracy and validity of their ID numbers and expiration dates when applying for renewal or replacement. It is important to double-check the entered data in the electronic form before proceeding with the payment to prevent any potential delays in the processing of their transactions. Furthermore, individuals are recommended to verify the correctness of their phone numbers, email addresses, and preferred delivery methods specified in the electronic form to ensure accurate communication and delivery of documents.

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