The unified number UAE is an essential part of living or working in the Emirates, yet many residents don’t even know what it is—or where to find it. Whether you’re applying for a visa, setting up a business, or just trying to open a bank account, understanding your UID number is key. This blog explains what the UID number is, how to find it, and why it matters in your daily life in the UAE.
What is the Unified Number UAE?
The unified number UAE, also called the UID number, is a 9-digit identification number assigned to everyone who enters the UAE on a visa. It’s generated by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) when a new visa application is processed. This number is linked to a person’s immigration record and doesn’t change, even if the individual changes their visa type or sponsor.
Unlike a visa number, which may change every time you renew or switch your visa, the UID number remains constant. This number acts as your master ID in the immigration system, used for tracking your movements, visa history, and residency status. It is essential for nearly all official procedures in the UAE—from applying for an Emirates ID to renewing a residency visa.
Understanding the Unified Number in the Emirates
The uid number UAE serves as a unifying identity for foreigners in the country. It’s the first number generated by immigration authorities and becomes the basis for all your interactions with federal and local government entities. If you’re an expat living in the UAE, your UID number was created the moment your first entry visa was issued.This number forms the backbone of your immigration identity, meaning even if you change your job or residency sponsor, your UID number stays the same. It ties together all of your legal records, helping the UAE maintain a seamless immigration system. Moreover, the number also plays a role in unifying services like banking, telecom registration, and government transactions under one ID.
Difference Between UID Number and Emirates ID
People often confuse the uid number in UAE with the Emirates ID number, but they serve different purposes. The UID number is tied to your visa and immigration file, whereas the Emirates ID number is associated with local identity and day-to-day transactions.
The Emirates ID number is issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security and is printed on the front of your Emirates ID card. It’s required for accessing public services, registering SIM cards, signing rental agreements, and more. In contrast, the UID number doesn’t appear on your Emirates ID but is located on your visa page. Both numbers are important, but they exist in different systems and are used for different functions.
Checking Your UID Number Online UAE
If you’ve lost access to your visa copy or simply don’t know where to look, you can still find your UID number using official government portals.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Unified Number Inquiry Service
To check your UID number online, go to the GDRFA website. There’s a Unified Number Inquiry Service designed specifically for this purpose. Follow these steps:
- Visit https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae
- Navigate to the “Unified Number Inquiry” section
- Enter your passport number, date of birth, and nationality
- Submit the information
- Your UID number will be displayed on the screen if the data matches
This process is free and takes less than a minute. It’s especially helpful for people who don’t have a physical copy of their visa handy.
Where to Find UID Number in Your Emirates ID
Technically, your UID number is not printed on your Emirates ID. Instead, it can be found on the visa sticker stamped in your passport. Look at the top of your residency visa—right next to your full name and nationality. It will be labeled “Unified Number” or “UID.”
If you have a digital visa copy, such as a scanned document or PDF, you can also find the UID number in the same location. Some visa documents also list it under barcodes or QR codes, which can be scanned for official verification.
UID Number UAE and Its Role in Residency & Government Services
The unified number UAE is not just a number on paper. It plays a practical role in how residents interact with the UAE’s systems and services. Without it, many official tasks would be impossible.
Importance of UID Number in Immigration and Visa Applications
When applying for a new residency visa, canceling an old one, or even transferring a visa from one employer to another, your UID number is used to track and link all your immigration history. It ensures that your file stays consistent in the GDRFA database. Errors in this number could lead to duplicated records or rejection of applications, which is why it’s important to always use the correct UID.
How UID Number Helps in Banking, Healthcare, and Education
In sectors like banking, your uid number UAE emirates ID might be cross-referenced during identity verification. Banks need it to complete your Know Your Customer (KYC) file. In healthcare, it’s used to verify insurance eligibility and link medical records. Even schools and universities might request the UID number to validate your residency when processing applications.
The UID number effectively connects your immigration record with your local identity, bridging the gap between federal-level data and service-level access.
Future of UID Number UAE and Its Digital Advancements
As the UAE moves forward with its smart city initiatives, the role of the UID number is expanding.
Integration of UID Number with Biometric Data
The government is already using biometric verification like fingerprints and facial recognition in border control and immigration. These biometric records are tied to your unified number UAE, making it a secure identifier. Future developments may link retina scans or voice data to the UID for enhanced security and faster processing at airports and service centers.
Smart City Applications and the Future of Unified Number UAE
Smart government platforms, like the UAE PASS app and other centralized service portals, already use data linked to the UID number. In the future, the unified number may be the single key to access all government and private services—from public transport to smart housing applications. As digital transformation accelerates, the UID number’s role in everyday life will only grow.
Need Assistance? How SPC Free Zone Can Help
Navigating the UAE’s administrative systems can be overwhelming, especially for new residents and business owners. That’s where SPC Free Zone steps in.
Business Setup and Residency Services in UAE
We help simplify the entire business setup journey, including trade license registration, residency visa processing, and UID number assistance. If you’re unsure how to check your UID, or you suspect you have multiple UID records, our experts can help resolve those issues.
We also handle:
- Emirates ID processing
- Visa cancellation and renewal
- Document clearance and PRO services
- Assistance with UID number correction or merging
Contact SPC Free Zone for Expert Assistance
Whether you’re starting a business or managing personal immigration records, SPC Free Zone provides fast, affordable, and reliable support. Reach out to our consultants to ensure your documents, including your uid number UAE, are accurate and updated across all relevant platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on UID Number UAE
What is a UID number, and who issues it?
The UID number, also known as the unified number UAE, is issued by the GDRFA when your visa is first created. It acts as your unique immigration ID and is required for all visa-related processes.
How can I check my UID number online?
You can check it using the Unified Number Inquiry Service on the official GDRFA website by entering your passport and personal details.
Can a person have multiple UID numbers?
Yes, but it’s not ideal. Sometimes, due to administrative errors or multiple visa entries, an individual may end up with more than one UID number.
How do I merge multiple UID numbers?
To merge UID numbers, you’ll need to visit the immigration department or ask your company’s PRO. Documents like your passport and all UID records must be submitted.
Is UID the same as my Emirates ID number?
No. The UID is for immigration purposes and is different from the Emirates ID number, which is used for local identification and services.
What are the benefits of having a UID number in UAE?
It links your visa, immigration, healthcare, and banking records into one unified system, simplifying access to both public and private services.
What do I do if I have multiple UID Numbers?
Contact immigration authorities or a service provider like SPC Free Zone to initiate the merging process and avoid future complications.
