Lost Emirates ID in UAE: In the UAE, the Emirates ID is a mandatory identification card issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP). It is required for everything from visa processing and job contracts to salary transfers and medical checkups.
So when an employee reports a lost Emirates ID in the UAE, it’s not just a personal inconvenience it becomes an urgent employer responsibility too. Whether you’re managing a team in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, your HR department must know the official process for lost ID replacement to stay compliant.
This article provides a 2025 update for what UAE employers should do when an employee loses their Emirates ID, including ICP requirements, documentation, fines, and tips for HR teams.
Common Scenarios Employers Face
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: An employee might lose their ID:
While traveling
In a wallet theft
During relocation
Due to negligence
When moving accommodation or changing companies
Regardless of how it happens, as soon as you receive notice of a lost Emirates ID in the UAE, action should be taken within 48–72 hours.
Step-by-Step Guide: What Employers Should Do
1. Report the Loss Immediately
Instruct the employee to file a report at:
Nearest police station, or
ICP Customer Happiness Center
Alternatively, employers can help file a digital report through:
ICP website: https://icp.gov.ae
UAE ICP App (available on iOS/Android)
The incident number or ID loss reference will be required for reissuance.
2. Request an Emirates ID Replacement
Once the loss is reported, the HR department or PRO should:
Log into the ICP portal
Navigate to “ID Card Services > Replacement of Lost/Damaged ID Card”
Submit the employee’s Emirates ID number, passport, visa copy, and passport-size photo
Pay the replacement fee (approx. AED 300)
The system will generate a new Emirates ID application and issue a tracking number.
3. Inform the Payroll & Banking Team
Since Emirates ID is required for:
Salary processing through WPS
Accessing employee bank accounts
Verifying health insurance and government benefits
It’s important to inform the payroll team and bank relationship managers to flag the ID as lost and avoid issues during salary disbursement.
4. Update HR Records & Notify MOHRE (if applicable)
Ensure the employee’s HR profile reflects:
“Emirates ID lost – replacement in process”
Expected replacement date
Updated ID once received
For some visa categories, especially labor-intensive sectors, employers may also need to inform MOHRE or the relevant free zone authority.
5. Track the Emirates ID Delivery
Once approved, the ICP sends the new ID to Emirates Post or a registered courier partner.
Delivery may take 3 to 7 business days
The employee will receive an SMS with collection instructions
Until then, the digital version available on the UAEICP App can be used for temporary ID purposes.
Fees and Timeline for Replacing a Lost Emirates ID in UAE (2025)
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Report Fee (optional) | AED 0 – 50 (police station) |
| Replacement Application | AED 300 |
| Urgent Service (24–48h) | AED 150 extra |
| Courier Charges | AED 20 – 35 |
Total Cost: Approx. AED 320 – AED 500
Timeframe: 5–7 business days (standard), 24–48 hours (urgent)
Key Documents Required
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: To replace a lost Emirates ID in UAE, the following documents are needed:
Copy of lost Emirates ID (if available)
Valid passport copy
UAE residence visa copy
One passport-size photo (white background)
Police report (if required by the Emirate)
ICP application printout
HR should help the employee gather all necessary files and keep copies in the internal records.
Employer Responsibilities Under UAE Law
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: As per UAE HR practices:
Employers are not legally obligated to pay for ID replacement, unless stated in company policy or employment contract
However, many companies do cover the cost as a professional courtesy or employee benefit
In high-security roles (e.g., bank staff, drivers, logistics workers), companies must act immediately to avoid operational delays
Digital ID Use While Waiting
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: Until the new ID arrives, employees can:
Use the UAEICP mobile app to access their digital Emirates ID
Download and present it for identity verification, hospital visits, or police verification
This digital version is now officially accepted by most government and private agencies across the UAE.
What Not to Do
Lost Emirates ID in UAE:
Don’t delay the report: Fines may apply after a certain window
Don’t allow the employee to continue using services requiring the ID
Don’t process end-of-service or salary without a valid Emirates ID for WPS
Don’t ignore MOHRE update if required
Proactive HR action is critical to ensure compliance and continuity in employee operations.
How Mahad HRC Supports Employers
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: At Mahad HRC, we understand that HR teams are constantly juggling regulatory tasks, labor law compliance, and operational goals. When an employee reports a lost Emirates ID in the UAE, we assist with:
Emirates ID replacement application support
Document verification and PRO assistance
ICP status tracking and courier follow-up
HR record updating and audit compliance
Support for companies in free zones and mainland
👉 Visit MahadHRC.ae to streamline your company’s HR process with our expert support.
Final Checklist for Employers
Lost Emirates ID in UAE:
- Report ID loss to police or ICP
- Apply for ID replacement via ICP portal
- Update HR records and employee file
- Inform payroll and related departments
- Track and collect the new card promptly
- Update government systems as needed
Conclusion
Lost Emirates ID in UAE: Losing an Emirates ID can be stressful for employees, but with a structured HR process in place, recovery and replacement can be handled smoothly. Companies that act fast not only stay compliant but also build trust and loyalty among staff.