As a resident of Dubai, you probably have a working understanding of what your Emirates ID is, and why it is so important to live here. Without this ID card, (even though it serves as so much more) you wouldn’t be able to access several essential services, whether it be from the Government or from private institutions.

But did you know that your Emirates ID is also linked to your mobile number? This is exactly why you need to keep your mobile number updated and connected to your Emirates ID if you want to continue to have access to all the services that your Emirates ID is linked to. Keep reading this blog to find out more about the process as we walk you through everything there is to know!

The Importance of Keeping Your Emirates ID Mobile Number Updated

Each time you need to access a government service, or even if you are transacting online, you would receive an OTP or One Time Password. Sounds familiar right? It is important to keep the mobile number associated with your Emirates ID up to date for this reason and more as we detail below:

• Many of the services connected to your Emirates ID involve financial transactions and personal data. Therefore, if you mobile number is updated, no one else will receive the sensitive OTP notifications
• Any service in the UAE from visa renewals to doctor’s appointments require an Emirates ID so that updates can be sent to the mobile number tied up with it. An old or inactive number could mean that you will miss out on these important updates.
• Your Emirates ID and mobile number are connected to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) or health insurance providers.

This connection not only ensures that you can perform daily transactions, but it also helps streamline communication between you and various institutions in the UAE. For example, you will receive updates on any fines, penalties, or due renewals related to your vehicle registration, driving license, or visa status. Moreover, financial institutions rely on the mobile number linked to your Emirates ID to confirm transactions and detect any unusual activities. 

This is particularly important to prevent unauthorized access to your banking details and personal information. By keeping your number up to date, you minimize the risk of missing critical alerts or having your account compromised. Therefore, always ensure that your current mobile number is the one connected to your Emirates ID for peace of mind and uninterrupted access to services.

By maintaining an active mobile number, you guarantee that you won’t experience delays or complications when accessing essential government services that rely on mobile number verification. With more services moving online, your mobile number plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth and secure transactions.

How to Update the Mobile Number Linked to Emirates ID

There are several ways in which you can update the mobile number tied to your Emirates ID, take a look below for the easiest ways to get this done.

1- Through the ICP Website

Visit the ICP website (https://icp.gov.ae/) and select the E-Services option. Enter your login details to access your profile. Under personal information, you will be able to update the mobile number.

2- ICP Mobile App

If you have a smartphone, download the ICP mobile app through the relevant App Store and login to your profile. Once again, all you have to do is make the change under the personal information setting.

3- Visit a Typing Centre

If you would prefer to have someone do it for you, you can visit an authorized typing center that offers Emirates ID related services. You’ll need to present your physical ID to the staff and give them instructions on what to do. However, the typing center may charge you a fee for this service. 

4- Smart Kiosks

There are several smart kiosks positioned all over the UAE in malls and other public spaces. You can directly scan your ID on the kiosk and then make the changes by accessing your profile. 

Things to Keep in Mind…

Once you have initiated the process to change the mobile number tied to your Emirates ID, the change should be reflected in a few minutes. However, do check back in 24 hours to ensure that everything has been processed properly across all systems.

If you update the mobile number through the ICP online platforms, you won’t have to pay a service fee. However, if you use a kiosk or visit a typing center, then a small service fee may apply. 

Once you update your mobile number tied to the Emirates ID, all government agencies and banks etc will be informed of the same. While you do not need to check with these institutions if they have received the update, you can do so proactively, especially with your bank.

In Conclusion,

If you want to maintain access to essential services while staying informed via the important notifications you receive on your mobile number, it is best to keep your mobile number associated with your Emirates ID up to date. Regardless of the method you choose to change it, the process is extremely simple and the processing takes no time at all. All you have to do is spare a few minutes of your day to carry out the process resulting in you staying updated and connected at all times!

How Can SetHub Help?

From getting an Emirates ID to keeping the mobile number updated and everything in between, SetHub has a wealth of experience in helping Expats with these processes. While the process of doing it on your own is simple, we understand that your case may be slightly different and require special assistance. If that is the case, or if you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! All you have to do is schedule a call online and you will hear back from our experts within just one business hour. SetHub is here to make your life in the UAE so much easier to manage.