Everything you need to know about UAE Emirates ID card (الهوية) photo requirements, including exact dimensions, background color, pose rules, and how to take a compliant national identity card photo at home.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Country | United Arab Emirates (الإمارات العربية المتحدة) |
| Document Type | Emirates ID Card (الهوية) |
| Photo Size | 40 × 60 mm (4 × 6 cm / 1.57 × 2.36 inches) |
| Resolution (DPI) | 600 |
| Head Size | 70–80% of the photograph (~38 mm head height) |
| Background Color | Plain white |
| Digital Photo Size | 944 × 1417 pixels at 600 DPI |
| Photo Paper Type | Matte |
| Color | Color only |
| Recency | Taken within the last 6 months |
| Card Validity | 5 years (citizens) / aligned with residence visa (residents) |
The Emirates ID (الهوية) is the mandatory national identity card for all UAE citizens and residents, issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). The card contains an embedded biometric chip with facial recognition data. Below is a comprehensive guide to ensure your photo is accepted.
Glasses are NOT allowed in Emirates ID photos. You must remove all eyewear, including sunglasses and tinted lenses, before taking the photo.
Source: ICP — Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security
You don't need a professional studio. Follow these steps to take a compliant Emirates ID photo at home using your smartphone.
Any modern smartphone camera works. Make sure the lens is clean and set to the highest resolution. Ask someone to take the photo — selfies have the wrong angle and distortion.
Stand facing a window with natural daylight. Avoid direct sunlight. Use multiple indoor light sources if needed to eliminate shadows.
Face the camera directly with a neutral expression. Both eyes open, mouth closed. Keep your head level. Ensure your entire face from chin to forehead is visible.
Comparison of acceptable and unacceptable ID card photos
A UAE Emirates ID card photo must be exactly 40×60 mm (4×6 cm or 1.57×2.36 inches). Your head should occupy 70–80% of the photograph, with approximately 6 mm of space from the top edge to the top of your head.
The Emirates ID (الهوية) is the mandatory national identity card issued by ICP to all UAE citizens and residents. It contains a biometric chip with facial geometry and fingerprint data. It is required for all government services, banking, healthcare, and official transactions in the UAE.
No. Glasses, sunglasses, and tinted lenses are not permitted in Emirates ID photos. You must remove all eyewear before taking the photo.
For UAE citizens, the Emirates ID is valid for 5 years. For UAE residents, the validity is aligned with the residence visa validity period.
Yes! Upload your photo to PassportPhoto.help and our AI will automatically crop, resize, remove the background, and ensure it meets all Emirates ID requirements.
Head coverings are not allowed unless worn for religious reasons. Your full face must be clearly visible from chin to forehead, and the head covering must not cast shadows.
All UAE citizens and all residents (including expatriates with work permits, dependent visas, etc.) must have an Emirates ID. It is mandatory for all individuals living in the UAE.
