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What is the Unified Number (UID) in the UAE?

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    A UID number (Unified Identification Number) in the UAE is a unique identification number assigned to individuals or entities for official and administrative purposes. It serves as a single reference to track various government-related records, transactions, or services, helping streamline identification and reduce paperwork.

    If you plan to live or work in the UAE, you will need your Unified Number (UID). Because, you will be asked to mention it while availing government services or applying for jobs.

    It is your permanent immigration identifier, created the first time you enter or are processed in the UAE immigration system. It doesn’t change even if your visa expires and you get a new one. You can look it up on the official GDRFA page or manage related services through ICP Smart Services portal. To understand the whole concept of UID, you need to read this blog thoroughly.

    Why UID is Considered Important

    UID is a common code that ties your immigration record together, entry permits, residencies, and history of your visas. The government relies on UID for all expats residing in the UAE because it helps government systems find the right person quickly without any lengthy manual search from the documents. If you are an entrepreneur or employee in the UAE, having the correct UID is really important as it prevents delays in residency, Emirates ID, and company-related visas. For Dubai visa holders, the responsible entity is GDRFA and it handles lookups and for the other emirates, ICP oversees it.

    Where to Find Your UID

    Most UAE identifiers, like your UID, are easy to find. To check your UID online for Dubai, you will open the GDRFA Unified Number Inquiry page. Then, you will mention your nationality and add other details like as passport number, date of birth and your gender. After writing these, you will submit the details and get to view your UID. You can also save a screenshot for your records.
    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.
      If your visa sticker is digital or missing from your passport, the GDRFA lookup is the most reliable way to fetch your UID. Bring your passport and current visas to an Amer/GDRFA (Dubai) or ICP service center if the online search fails. Staff can retrieve or correct your UID.

    A Quick Overview of UID & other UAE Numbers

    It is noteworthy to understand that UID is Individual immigration ID. It only identifies people, not companies. Also, it is not a trade or tax ID. Companies use other identifiers:
    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

    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 Your RAKEZ 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 in RAKEZ

    PersonUID neededWhen it is used
    Owner or partner taking residencyYesEntry permit, UID created or confirmed, status change, medical and biometrics, Emirates ID
    EmployeesYesSame steps during employment visa processing
    Sponsored dependentsYesEach 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.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does my Emirates ID number match the Unified Number?

    No. Both are for different purposes. In the UAE, the Unified Number keeps track of your immigration history. While you need to show your Emirates ID for everyday services like as medical care.

    If I change sponsors or renew my visa, will my UID change?

    No. Even if your file number or visa changes, your UID remains the same. It is considered as your immigration profile’s permanent identifier.

    Do I receive a new UID when I renew my passport?

    No. Your UID will be the same old one. To maintain accurate records, you must update your new passport information with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) in another emirate or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai.

    Do visitors receive a UID, and when is it issued?

    When you apply for an entry permit or interact with UAE immigration for the first time, a UID is created. A UID can be issued to visitors even before they move in.

    Where on documents can I find my UID?

    Verify your entry permit or eVisa, which is present next to the file number. It can also be obtained in person or online via GDRFA (Dubai) or ICP (other emirates).

    Does my Emirates ID card display the UID?

    No. The UID is not displayed on the Emirates ID card; only your Emirates ID number is.

    Does obtaining an Emirates ID require my UID?

    Yes. Your immigration records are connected by the UID, guaranteeing a smooth Emirates ID application process.

    Why am I unable to locate my UID with online search?

    Verify your passport number, nationality, date format, and name order one more time. Try using your previous passport number if you recently renewed it. Bring your passport and visa documents to an Amer center, GDRFA (Dubai), or ICP (other emirates) if it still doesn’t work.

    Do newborns or children are allocated a UID?

    Indeed. Similar to adults, they are given a UID when applying for a visa or entry permit.

    Do businesses have a unified number?

    No. Businesses use a Tax Registration Number (TRN) for taxes, a Trade Licence Number, and an Establishment Card for sponsoring visas. Only individuals may use the UID.

    What happens if I accidentally have two UIDs?

    To merge duplicate UIDs, get in touch with GDRFA (Dubai) or ICP (other emirates). Bring a recent photo, a copy of your passport, any Emirates ID you may have, and copies of your previous and current visas or eVisas with different UIDs. Fill out the merge form at the counter or portal.

    Is it okay to give a PRO or consultant my UID?

    Yes, provided they have permission. To maintain security when setting up a RAKEZ business, only authorized AURUM representatives should be given access to your UID.

    What is the role of UID in RAKEZ company setup?

    For immigration procedures such as entry permits, status updates, medical examinations, biometrics, and Emirates ID applications, RAKEZ founders and staff use their UID. A valid UID expedites the visa process.

    Which numbers ought to be kept apart from my UID?

    Keep your TRN (tax), Establishment Card number (business sponsorship), and Emirates ID number (personal ID) separate. To prevent confusion, store each one separately.

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