UAE Speeds Up Passport & Emirates ID Renewals with New Unified System
<p>The UAE has introduced a major upgrade to its government service system by launching a unified process for renewing passports and Emirates ID cards. This modern service, developed by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), aims to make document renewal faster, smoother, and more convenient for Emirati citizens. The change comes as part of the second phase of the Zero Government Bureaucracy (ZGB) Programme—an initiative designed to minimize paperwork, reduce procedures, and simplify the overall government experience.</p><p>The second phase of the ZGB programme was launched earlier by <strong>His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum</strong>, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The initiative serves as a global model for efficient, technology-driven public services. By transforming traditional government procedures into proactive and intelligent processes, the UAE continues to push forward its vision of delivering exceptional citizen services with minimum effort.</p><h3><strong>A Single Smart Journey for Renewals</strong></h3><p>One of the biggest benefits of the new system is that it allows citizens to renew both their passport and Emirates ID together, even if their Emirates ID is still valid for more than six months. Previously, individuals had to renew these documents separately, often repeating steps like submitting documents, uploading photographs, and entering personal details more than once.</p><p>The new unified service solves these issues by creating one smart journey. Citizens now only need to submit their information a single time. Personal details, photographs, and required updates are all handled through a single interface, eliminating duplicate steps and saving valuable time for the user.</p><h3><strong>Major Reduction in Processing Time</strong></h3><p>The ICP has confirmed that the new system will reduce the time required for renewals by <strong>at least 50%</strong>. This massive improvement comes from the removal of unnecessary procedures, the adoption of automation, and the integration of data from multiple government systems. Along with faster processing, customer service inquiries and calls are expected to drop by <strong>around 40%</strong>, as the process becomes clearer, more intuitive, and easier to follow.</p><p>These improvements not only benefit citizens but also help government departments operate more efficiently. By reducing the workload caused by repeated inquiries and manual data checks, departments can focus on providing better quality services and supporting citizens who truly need assistance.</p><h3><strong>Supporting the UAE’s Vision for a Smarter Government</strong></h3><p>This unified renewal service is part of a larger national goal: making government systems simpler, faster, and more effective. The UAE has been investing heavily in advanced technology, artificial intelligence, and digital platforms to create a government experience that requires minimal effort from citizens. Instead of long procedures, the focus is now on proactive services where the government anticipates needs and provides solutions quickly.</p><p>The new renewal model reflects the UAE’s commitment to efficiency and innovation. It aligns with international best practices and leverages modern technologies to deliver high-impact results. The government aims to reduce bureaucracy, improve responsiveness, and ensure that essential services—such as passport and ID renewal—are completed with maximum ease.</p><h3><strong>Enhancing the Everyday Lives of Citizens</strong></h3><p>Ultimately, this initiative is designed to make life easier for Emiratis. Renewing important documents is something every citizen must do periodically, and simplifying this task has a direct positive effect on daily life. By merging services, reducing time, and lowering effort, the new system ensures that citizens spend less time dealing with procedures and more time focusing on personal and professional priorities.</p><p>The UAE continues to stand out as a global example of how innovation and leadership can transform public services. With this new step under the Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme, the country is setting a high standard for efficient, citizen-focused governance.</p>