From August 18, 2025, Emirati citizens can renew their passports up to one year before expiry, instead of waiting for the last six months. The change—announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP)—is meant to make planning easier, cut stress around travel, and speed up digital services for anyone looking into passport renewal UAE.
What’s changing—and why it helps
Until now, passport holders typically waited until the final six months to renew. With the new window, people can file earlier through the ICP Smart Services platform.
ICP Chairman Ali Mohammed Al Shamsi said the move raises service quality and aligns with the UAE’s digital-first approach. It supports international travel planning, streamlines official procedures, and strengthens the use of digital identity.
UAE passport strength still stands out
The UAE passport remains among the world’s top ten in 2025, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to about 184 countries (Henley Passport Index). After ranking 15th in 2022–2023 and 11th in 2024, it now sits around 8th. This policy shift reinforces that standing by showcasing a modern, efficient renewal system.
Documents Required for Passport Renewal in UAE
If you’re checking documents required for passport renewal in uae, you’ll submit everything through ICP Smart Services:
- A recent ICAO-compliant photo (uploaded online).
- The system may also ask for Emirates ID, biometric verification, or other documentation depending on your profile.
Passport Renewal Time in UAE
For passport renewal time in UAE, the GDRFA Dubai channel lists an expected completion time of 48 hours. Actual timing can vary by case and service channel, but the online process is designed to minimize in-person visits.
Passport Renewal Fee
The passport renewal fee appears inside the ICP Smart Services application flow. It typically includes:
- Application charges
- Issuance (with 5- or 10-year validity options)
- Delivery
Always review the total shown before you proceed to payment.
