The UAE passport authority has officially announced the extension of the validity period of Emirati passports to 10 years. According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP), this new service has been put into effect for citizens aged 21 and above since Monday, July 8, 2024. Previously, the validity of the passport was only five years from the date of issuance.
What are the benefits of the 10-year passport?
This new 10-year passport service will provide several benefits for UAE citizens. It will reduce the customer journey from two trips to just one trip every 10 years, supporting the government’s efforts to streamline bureaucracy and save time for citizens. Additionally, the longer validity period will offer greater convenience and flexibility for Emirati passport holders.
Issuance and renewal process
Moreover, the new 10-year Emirati passports will be issued through the same established procedures and delivery channels as the current 5-year passports. Citizens can apply for the new service when their existing passports expire, or until all its pages are fully used, whichever happens first.
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UAE citizens have several convenient options to renew their new 10-year passports. Domestically, they can apply through their local passport office run by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs. For emergency renewals, citizens can visit dedicated passport offices at the Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah airports, which are open 24/7 to accommodate any urgent needs. For those living overseas, the new 10-year passport service is also available through UAE embassies and consulates in their country of residence.
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