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Unified Number UAE
  • By Business Consultant
  • July 5, 2024

All individuals and foreigners intending to stay, work, or visit the UAE require a visa, which includes important details about the holder. One such essential information is unified number UAE. UAE’s growing popularity as a tourist and business hub is undeniable. Each year, millions of visas are issued to foreigners relocating to the UAE. 

In fact, in Dubai alone, the GDRFA issued 158,000 golden visas in the last year. The unified number UAE (UID) was introduced to streamline the immigration processes. It serves as a unique identifier for all residents and visitors in the UAE that can be used for all government-related matters. 

For all long-term residents, tourists, employees and even foreign entrepreneurs in the UAE, understanding the UID number, how to obtain it, its use and its importance is crucial for navigating this vibrant country. Let’s discuss: 

What is a unified number in UAE? 

The unified number UAE (UID), also known as UID, is a unique number consisting of 9 to 15 digits assigned to individuals upon entry with a valid visa.  It then gets linked to their official records, including residency, visa details, and immigration status. Government and immigration authorities in the UAE identify individuals residing within the nation’s border through their UID number. Tourists, international employees, or permanent residents can receive the Unified Number (UID) in UAE. 

The unified number UAE is issued and governed by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) and the General Directorate of Residence and Foreign Affairs (GDRFA). It is important to note that the UID number remains unchanged, regardless of changes in visa status.  

Where to find your unified number UAE? 

Finding your UID number is quite simple. You can locate it in two ways: 

Find on resident visa:  

Your resident visa contains many essential numbers associated with you, one of them being your UID number. You can easily locate your UID number just above the file number on your visa document. 

Find Online: 

Alternatively, you can follow these simple steps to find your UID number online quickly: 

  • First, visit this website:https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en/unified-number-inquiry-service
  • Provide your details, including passport number, nationality, date of birth, and gender. 
  • Solve the math puzzle for verification.  
  • Click on “Submit”, and your UID number will appear on the screen. 

How to obtain a unified number UAE? 

The unique number is automatically allotted to you upon your initial entry into the UAE with a residency visa. However, if you do not have one yet or cannot find it online or on your visa, you can contact GDRFA directly using the contact form on its website for help. 

Alternatively, you can use the following contact information: 

  • Toll-free number within the UAE: 8005111 
  • International telephone number: +971 4 313 9999 

For further assistance, you can also visit the GDRFA headquarters, which is located in Al Jaffliya, Dubai. 

Significance of numbers in UID: 

The UID number is not just a random set of digits, each part has a specific meaning of its own. Here is how it breaks down: 

  • Emirate Number: The first three digits of your UID show which emirate issued your visa. For instance, Dubai visas start with 201, Abu Dhabi with 101, Sharjah with 301, and Ajman with 401. 
  • Issuance Year: The following four digits indicate the year your visa was issued, giving you information about when your visa was granted and the timeline. 
  • Visa Number: The last 7-9 digits represent your residence or visa number. This number is commonly used on various forms submitted to the UAE government.  

Role of UID number: 

Your UID number plays a key role in ensuring your personal data safety and ease of access to various services in the UAE. The unified number UAE is useful for various purposes, including: 

  • Applying for a resident visa 
  • Obtaining an Emirates ID 
  • Getting unique identity in the UAE immigration system 

Merging multiple UID numbers: 

At times, individuals might receive multiple UID numbers due to system errors. This can cause confusion and immigration issues. It can also affect entry, exit, and the processing of residence visa applications in the UAE. Therefore, it should be treated as a serious matter that requires prompt resolution. 

You can visit relevant immigration authority who can consolidate these multiple UID records into a single UID. Here are the steps you will need to follow for merging multiple UID numbers: 

  • Visit the immigration office to submit an application for UID numbers consolidation. 
  • Prepare and bring along the necessary documents, including your passport, residence visa, identity proof, and proof of residence. 
  • Pay the applicable fees as required. 
  • Once your application is approved, you will receive a new UID number, and any previous UID numbers will be deactivated. Thus, ensuring clarity and efficiency in managing your immigration records. 

If you need any assistance, feel free to contact our experts at DUBIZ. 

Importance of unified number, UAE: 

The unified number UAE plays a crucial role in UAE smart city initiatives, significantly enhancing the country’s economy and efficiency. Some of its benefits include: 

  • It streamlines interactions with government services and simplifies administrative processes by providing a unique identity for individuals and businesses. 
  • The UID facilitates access to government services such as healthcare and education. 
  • It tracks transactions between individuals and businesses, helping to prevent fraud and corruption, thereby fostering a more business-friendly environment in the UAE. 
  • It simplifies the processes such as signing up for utility services, getting a driver’s license, bank account opening etc. 

Let DUBIZ be your guide!  

At DUBIZ, we are committed to providing the best immigration assistance. Whether you need to apply for a new visa or change your status, our experts, with their deep knowledge of the UAE landscape, can help you with all the necessary paperwork. You do not need to tire yourself out. Our experts can handle everything on your behalf.  

If you need more information on unified number Dubai or are someone who wants to start a business in UAE as a foreigner, feel free to reach out for advice. 

Contact us at  +971 562986853 or WhatsApp us at +971 569973630. You can also drop an email at info@dubiz.co for any inquiries.    

FAQs 

1. Can a person have multiple unified numbers in Dubai? 

No, you are assigned only one unified number. However, multiple numbers can be allotted due to system errors, which may cause potential issues. You must get them consolidated through the immigration authority. 

2. Can my UID number change over time in UAE? 

No, the UID number remains constant regardless of changes in visa status, sponsorship etc. 

3. Is the unified number same as the visa number? 

The unified number and visa number are not the same. The visa number changes with the change in visa status, but the UID number remains always consistent. 

4. What are the benefits of UID? 

The unified number UAE offers various benefits. It allows individuals to apply for a residence visa, request an Emirates ID, and be uniquely registered in the country’s immigration database. 

5. Who issues unified number in UAE? 

UID numbers is issued by General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in UAE.  

6. Is it safe to share your UID number? 

Your UID number contains crucial and sensitive information about you such as immigration status, visa details and your plans about stay in UAE. Only share it when you need to for official reasons, not just with anyone.