19 Jul 2025
By Vista CorpDo you live or work in the UAE? Do you want to set up a business in Dubai? Are you aware of what a Unified Number UAE is?
Many residents are unaware of what it is. From applying for a visa, opening a bank account, to setting up a business in Dubai, the UAE Unified Identification Number is the key. Therefore, this blog will take you through everything you need to know about the UID number in the UAE, what it is, how to find it, and why it’s essential.
Let’s get into it.
What is the UID Number?
UID number stands for a Unified Identification Number. It’s a 9 to 15-digit number that’s generated automatically when you obtain the residence visa. The number is like your distinct identifier as a visa holder, essential for every official process in the UAE.
Now, who issues the UID number? The General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA) and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship issue UID numbers. These are the organisations that are responsible for handling residency permits, applications for the Emirates ID, and other essential documents needed to stay in the UAE as a resident.
Everyone in the UAE has a unique identification number that is linked to their passport and Visa. The UAE UID remains unchanged, regardless of any changes to the visa status. Please note that the UID number is NOT the same as the Emirates ID number. The Emirates ID is a separate card issued to all residents of the UAE.
UID Number UAE Key Facts
- It’s issued by the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs) and ICA (Federal Authority for Identity & Citizenship).
- Its purpose is to track immigration records, issue Emirates IDs, visa applications, and other government services.
- It’s printed on residence visas, Emirates ID applications, and immigration records.
- The UID numbers remain the same.
What Does Your UAE UID Number Represent?
Your UID number has information about your residency and Visa in the UAE. Let’s understand it in more detail.
1. Emirate Code
The first three numbers indicate the emirate that issued your visa:
101 – Abu Dhabi
201 – Dubai
301 – Sharjah
401 – Ajman
Please note that visas from Abu Dhabi and Sharjah may include a slash ( / ) after the Emirate code.
2. Year of Issue
The next four digits show the year your visa was issued.
Example: 2025
It helps identify how old or recent the visa is.
3. Visa Number / Residency Number (Last 7–9 Digits)
A unique code linked to your residency file.
Used in most official forms, applications, and renewals.
What are the Importance and Benefits of a Unified Number in the UAE?
A Unified Number plays a very important role in some of the major government services in the UAE, such as immigration. Here are other reasons why the number is extremely important.
Centralised Identifier
For people living in the UAE, the number works like their centralised identifier. For smooth processes like visas, renewals, and residency tracking, it links the individual’s visa information with various government systems.
Immigration Status Tracking
The number also enables seamless tracking of a person’s immigration status, like the expiry date, type of visa, and any changes in the residency status. In case the person violates any visa rules, the UID number can also be used to ensure they comply with UAE residency laws.
Access to Multiple Services
To access services in the UAE, like healthcare, telecommunications, and banking, a UID number is required. A valid number leads to smooth access to all the major services in the UAE and also links your identity with the government records.
Essential When Travelling In and Out of the UAE
When planning your travels, you will need to provide your UID number for immigration and customs procedures. It eventually leads to smooth travelling in and out of the UAE without delays.
Work Permit and Employment
To obtain a work permit and maintain compliance with UAE labour laws, the GDRFA UID number is required. To process labour contracts and register employees with the UAE Ministry of Labour, employers need this number.
Easy Update or Changes
You can use the UID number to update any information you need to change, such as your visa status, employment, or residency. It’s also very helpful in ensuring that all your records are the same across all government data sources. It ultimately leads to fewer errors.
Business Setup
For setting up a business in the UAE, a UAE UID number plays a crucial role. Without a valid UID number, you can face delays during visa processing, bank account opening, and company registration.
Smart City Initiatives
The UAE’s smart city goals and the UID number are interlinked. The number connects your identity to various services, including a visa, healthcare, and business setup. It helps the government to be faster, more accurate, and better connected in providing these services.
What to do if You Lose Your Unified Number?
Losing your UID number in a country like the UAE can have significant negative impacts. Therefore, you should know what needs to be done and how to retrieve your lost UID UAE online.
- Report immediately to the relevant authority that you have lost your UID number.
- The next step should be to apply for a replacement through the relevant government portal or office. It will require you to complete a form and submit essential documents.
- If you have the number linked to your sensitive data, monitor your accounts and take the required actions immediately.
- When you receive the replacement number, update all the records to avoid unnecessary issues later.
UID Number vs Emirates ID Number
Understand the difference between the UID Number and the Emirates ID Number in the table below:
| Feature | UID Number | Emirates ID Number |
| Full Name | Unified Identification Number | Emirates Identity Number |
| Where It’s Found | On your residence visa page in your passport | Printed on the front of your Emirates ID card |
| Issued By | GDRFA (Dubai) / ICP (other Emirates) | ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) |
| Purpose | Tied to visa and immigration records | Used for local identity and public services |
| Usage | Immigration, visa applications, and Emirates ID processing | Access to government services, SIM registration, tenancy, etc. |
| Can it Change? | Usually permanent, but can be merged if duplicates occur | Changes only if a new ID is issued (e.g. after expiry or loss) |
| Linked To | Passport and visa | Person’s identity across all UAE systems |
| Appears on Emirates ID | No | Yes |
| Example | Visa renewal, residency file tracking | Bank account, rent contract, utilities, health services |
D/B UID Number and the Visa Number in the UAE
Understand the difference between the UID Number and the Visa Number in the table below:
| Feature | UID Number | Visa Number |
| Full Form | Unified Identification Number (UID) | Visa Number |
| Issued By | GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs) | GDRFA (Visa issuing authority) |
| Purpose | Unique identifier for residency and immigration records | Identifies the specific visa issued to the resident |
| Format | 9 to 15-digit number (includes emirate code, year, and unique code) | Typically 7–9 digits, unique to the visa |
| Where to find | On the residence visa page in the passport | On the visa page, it is often labelled as “Visa Number” |
| Linked To | Linked to the passport, visa, and immigration system | Linked to a specific visa and its validity |
| Does it change | Usually permanent for the person, even if the visa status changes | Changes with every new visa issuance or renewal |
| Usage | Used for official government processes like visa tracking, Emirates ID applications, and residency records | Used for visa-specific procedures, renewals, and applications |
| Appears on Emirates ID | No | No |
What Documents are Linked to the UID Number in the UAE?
Below are all the primary documents that are linked to the UID number in the UAE:
Labour Contracts: To link employment details to your personal profile.
Emirates ID Applications: To successfully process and issue Emirates ID cards.
Health Insurance Registration: To claim medical insurance.
Entry Permits & Residency Visas: Every visa issued by the UAE government has a Unified Number.
Always ensure that your UID number is accurate; otherwise, it can create disruptions in services.
How to Merge the Duplicate UID UAE Number?
If there are multiple UID numbers due to an error, the duplicate numbers must be merged to avoid unwanted complications in residency records. GDRFA manages this. GDRFA stands for the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs. Below are the steps to merge UID Numbers:
Step 1: Visit the GDRFA office or Website.
Step 2: Prepare all the required documents mentioned below:
- Valid passport copy
- Entry visa copies (including old, expired, or cancelled visas with UID numbers)
- Emirates ID (if available)
- Completed UID merge request form
Step 3: Submit the merge request for the UID numbers. You will need to pay a required processing fee.
Step 4: Wait for the confirmation, which will be sent via a notification. Duplicate numbers will be successfully merged.
How to Find Your Unified Number in a UAE Residence Visa
As an expat, you may not be aware of where to locate the UID number on a residence visa. The image below will help find the number with ease.
How To Check Your UID Number Online?
To check your UID number online, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Visit the GDRFA Website
Step 2: Click on the Unified Number Inquiry Service Page
Step 3: Enter Your Passport Details
- Passport Number
- Nationality
- Date of Birth
- Gender
Step 4: Complete the Security Check
Step 5: Click on the Submit Button
Step 6: Your UID Number Will Appear on the Screen
Please double-check if all the details you’ve entered are correct.
Common Issues Related to the UID Number and How to Resolve Them?
There are some common issues individuals face with the UID number. Knowing how to resolve them can make things easy for you.
| Common Issues | How To Resolve Them |
| Errors in the Unified Number | In case of errors in the Unified Number, contact the authority (GDRFA & ICP) that issued the number to rectify the mistake. They will fix the error. |
| Duplicate Unified Numbers | For duplicate unified numbers, visit the GDRFA or ICP office to get all the duplicate numbers merged after verifying your documents. |
| Inability to Access the Number | If you cannot access your UID number, you can use online government portals (GDRFA or ICP) to reset your login details via email or phone. |
Final Thoughts
If you are planning to move to the UAE or already live there as a resident, understanding the UAE UID number is essential. In fact, if you plan to open a business in Dubai, a UID number serves several benefits. Thinking of starting a business in Dubai? Our team at Vista Business Setup will support you every step of the way. Our team will answer all your questions regarding setting up a company in the UAE, including any queries you may have regarding the UID number. Ready to start? Take the next step with confidence.
Book a Free Consultation Now
FAQs
1. Can one person have multiple Unified Numbers in Dubai?
No. One person cannot have multiple unified numbers in Dubai unless there’s an error. If you encounter this error with your UID number, visit the immigration authority and get the multiple numbers merged into one.
2. Are the UID and the visa number the same?
No. The UID and the visa number are two different numbers. When the visa status changes, the visa number changes as well. But in the case of the UID number, it remains the same.
3. Who issues the UAE UID Number?
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) are jointly responsible for issuing and managing the UAE’s Unified Identification (UID) number.
4. How to check my UID number online?
You can check your UID number online on the official website of GDRFA by entering your passport and personal details.
5. Is it safe to share your UID number?
It is safe to share your UID number for official purposes; however, it’s not recommended to share it with others. It’s a personal and sensitive piece of information as a UAE resident and is linked to official records.
6. How is a UID number helpful in businesses in the UAE?
The UID number is a crucial factor that plays a significant role in determining the quality of a company’s customer service. It simplifies how the company tracks customer interactions, helping them to provide better services. For sectors like baking, real estate, and telecommunications, it’s highly beneficial.
7. Do I need the Unified Number for health insurance?
Yes, a Unified Number is often mandatory to maintain health insurance details. Without it, processing claims or updating your insurance information can be delayed or complicated.
8. What is the toll-free number to find the UID number?
To find your UID (Unified Number) in the UAE, you can call the Amer Service toll-free number 8005111 if you are within the UAE. For international inquiries, you can call +971 4 313 9999. You can also find your UID online through the GDRFA website or by visiting their headquarters in Al Jafiliya, Dubai.
