UAE Launches 10-Year Passport for Citizens Over 21

Tuesday, 9 July 2024

The Emirates Passport Authority has officially announced the extension of Emirates passports for citizens aged 21 and above from five to ten years. The changes, triggered by a UAE cabinet decision in August 2024, will come into effect from tomorrow, February 8, confirmed by the Federal Identification and Citizenship, Customs and Port Protection Authority (ICP).

The Emirates Passport Authority has announce an important update: the validity of the Emirates Passport has been extend from five years to ten years. The change follows a UAE cabinet decision from March 2024.

Starting Monday, July 8, 2024, citizens aged 21 and over will be able to access these new services, including the Federal Identification, Citizenship, Customs and Port Protection Authority (ICP) Application for the updated passport system has been emphasize. It will also offer product enhancements and comprehensive digital services to streamline the process.

Previously, an Emirati passport was valid for five years. Extending the validity period to ten years would reduce the frequency of renewals and be in line with the government’s commitment to simplify bureaucratic procedures and save time for its citizens

Obtaining a visa for newborns in the UAE

Emirati parents can now effortlessly obtain passports for their newborns through the “Mabrook Ma Yak” service program. This comprehensive service package simplifies the process by issuing all required documents such as birth certificate, passport and Emirates ID for the newborn at the same time

Effective July 8, 2024, newly issue passports are valid for 10 years from the date of issue or until all pages are filled, whichever comes first It is important to remember that this passport cannot be extend when after its expiration, renewal of passports for the holders in need Should be done.

UAE Passport Application

UAE citizens have several options to apply for the issuance, renewal or replacement of their passport, including:

Directorate-General of Residence and Ministry of Foreign Affairs/Country of Control
Country and Status Portals (eChannels).
Online Passport Issuance Service by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security
Issuance of travel passes at Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah airports
GDRFA operations at Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports

Passports for citizens abroad

If a passport holder is outside the UAE and their passport has expire, been lost or damage, they can contact a UAE embassy abroad to obtain a new passport .This checks if Emirati nationals can carry passports appropriately no matter where they are in the world.