UAE Passport & Emirates ID Photo Requirements 2026

Official requirements from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). Last reviewed March 2026.

Photo Dimensions

UAE passport and Emirates ID photos must be 35 mm wide and 45 mm tall, following the ICAO biometric standard. This applies to both UAE nationals applying for UAE passports and expatriates applying for UAE residency visas or Emirates ID cards.

The UAE has progressively digitised its identity and passport systems through the ICP Smart app (formerly EIDA). Digital photo submissions are now standard for many application types, but physical photo copies may still be required at some typing centres and government service points.

Emirates ID Photo Requirements

The Emirates ID card uses the same photo specifications as the UAE passport: 35×45 mm with the face occupying 70–80% of the frame. For Emirates ID applications and renewals, photos are typically captured at the ICP service centre or typing centre using a live camera. However, for applications submitted online via the ICP Smart app, a digital photo can be uploaded.

When applying through a typing centre, the centre usually photographs you on-site. If you are submitting through an online channel, use a compliant photo prepared to the correct dimensions.

Face and Head Size

The face must occupy 70–80% of the photo frame height, which translates to approximately 32–36 mm from chin to crown within the 45 mm photo. The face must be centred horizontally. Both eyes must be open and looking directly at the camera with no head tilt.

Background Requirements

The background must be plain white. No patterns, gradients, shadows, or other objects are permitted. Sufficient contrast between the background and the subject's face and clothing is required. Dark clothing is recommended to ensure good contrast against the white background.

Expression and Appearance

A neutral expression with mouth closed is required. Both eyes must be fully open. Glasses are not permitted. The UAE's automated biometric systems require clear, unobstructed facial features for enrollment and border control matching.

UAE National Dress and Head Coverings

UAE national dress (kandura for men, abaya and hijab for women) is acceptable and commonly worn in UAE passport photos. The critical requirement is that the full face must be clearly visible — from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead. The hijab is acceptable but the niqab (full face cover) is not, as the face must be uncovered for biometric verification purposes.

For non-UAE nationals, the same rules apply: head coverings are acceptable only for religious reasons, and the full face must be visible. Fashion head accessories and hats are not permitted.

Complete Specifications Table

Common Rejection Reasons

• Background not plain white
• Shadows on background or face
• Face proportion outside 70–80% of frame
• Glasses worn
• Non-neutral expression
• Face partially covered (niqab)
• Photo older than 6 months
• Photo not in colour