What is the Unified Number (UID) in the UAE?
Table of Contents
- Why the UAE UID Number Is Important
- Where to Find Your UAE Unified Number
- UID vs Emirates ID and Visa File Number
- When You Need Your UID Number
- How UID Fits into RAKEZ Business Setup
- Who Needs a UID During the RAKEZ Visa Process
- Frequently Asked Questions About the UAE Unified Number
- What is a Unified Number in the UAE?
- Where can I find my UAE Unified Number?
- Is the UID the same as an Emirates ID number?
- Does a UAE Unified Number expire?
- Latest Blogs
The UAE Unified Number (UID) is a permanent immigration number assigned when a person first enters or is processed in the UAE immigration system. It links entry permits, residence visas and immigration records to one identity. The number usually remains the same when a visa is renewed or replaced.
You can find the UID on a UAE visa or entry permit near the file number. For a Dubai-issued visa, use the official GDRFA Unified Number Inquiry service. For other emirates, check the relevant record through ICP Smart Services. The UID is different from your Emirates ID number and visa file number.
If you are completing a UAE investor visa application, applying for an Emirates ID or sponsoring dependants, keep the UID available. Our Emirates ID application guide and ICP Smart Services guide explain the related steps.
Why the UAE UID Number Is Important
Where to Find Your UAE Unified Number
| Where to find UID | How to access | Quick tip |
|---|---|---|
| Visa / Entry Permit | Check the document near the File No. | It may appear as “Unified Number” or “UID No.” |
| Online (Dubai) | GDRFA → Unified Number Inquiry Service | Save a screenshot once displayed. |
| Online (Other Emirates) | ICP Smart Services (visa/ID services) | Use the visa/eVisa section to view your UID. |
UID vs Emirates ID and Visa File Number
| Identifier | Who/What it identifies | Primary use | Issued by |
|---|---|---|---|
| UID (Unified Number) | Individual | Immigration record linking (entry permits, residencies) | GDRFA/ICP) |
| Emirates ID Number | Individual | National ID for services, banking, SIM, etc. | ICP |
| Visa/File Number | A specific visa | Tracks a particular visa; can change on renewal/sponsor change | GDRFA/ICP |
| Trade/Business Licence No. | Company | Licensing, compliance, contracting | RAKEZ/DED & relevant authority |
| Establishment Card No. | Company | Sponsor staff visas with immigration | GDRFA/ICP (by emirate) |
| TRN (Tax Registration Number) | Business (or person) registered for tax | VAT/Corporate Tax filings & invoices | Federal Tax Authority |
When You Need Your UID Number
You will need your Unified Number (UID) for most immigration tasks, including residency renewals or cancellations, status changes, and family sponsorship. It is also required for Emirates ID enrollment and other ICP services. Many government inquiries, like as fines or status checks, ask for your UID, so keep it handy.
How UID Fits into RAKEZ Business Setup
Your UID is personal, but it is related to your company formation in the UAE, especially in the RAKEZ free zone. The UID is an individual immigration ID. It is not used to issue your RAKEZ trade licence or the Establishment Card. It appears only when a person linked to the company applies for UAE residency. That person can be an owner, partner, employee, or a sponsored dependent. During the visa process the system creates or matches the UID, then the applicant completes status change, medical and biometrics, and Emirates ID.
Who Needs a UID During the RAKEZ Visa Process
| Person | UID needed | When it is used |
|---|---|---|
| Owner or partner taking residency | Yes | Entry permit, UID created or confirmed, status change, medical and biometrics, Emirates ID |
| Employees | Yes | Same steps during employment visa processing |
| Sponsored dependents | Yes | Each dependent gets a UID. The sponsor’s UID is also referenced in the application |
Need to setup business in UAE? AURUM aligns your RAKEZ licensing, Establishment Card, immigration, and TRN so you launch faster.
Frequently Asked Questions About the UAE Unified Number
What is a Unified Number in the UAE?
The Unified Number, also called a UID, is a permanent immigration identifier assigned to a person when they first enter or are processed in the UAE immigration system.
Where can I find my UAE Unified Number?
Check your UAE visa or entry permit near the file number. Dubai visa holders can also use the GDRFA Unified Number Inquiry service, while applicants in other emirates can check through ICP Smart Services.
Is the UID the same as an Emirates ID number?
No. The UID connects your immigration history, while the Emirates ID number belongs to your national identity card. A visa file number identifies a specific visa and may change after renewal or a sponsor change.
Does a UAE Unified Number expire?
The UID normally remains connected to the same person even when a visa expires or a new residence visa is issued. If duplicate UID records appear, contact GDRFA, ICP or an authorised service centre to request a correction.
Latest Blogs
Planning your UAE business setup?
Get a free, no-obligation consultation with our business setup consultants in Dubai.