What Is Unified Number? A Complete Guide for UAE Residents
-
Fatima Saif
- . December 5, 2025
- . Update: December 5, 2025 1:58 am
It is important to know what is unified number to any person who resides or does business in the UAE. This identification number is a 15-digit number that is essential in immigration, tracking of residency, and services to the government. Most of the residents mix it with their visa number or Emirates ID number, but the unified number is absolutely different and much more permanent. This article provides a description of what is meant by unified number, how it works, where it can be found and the reasons why it is important. At the end, you will obviously see what the difference between different ID numbers is and what is so significant about this unique identifier in the UAE.
What Is Unified Number? Meaning and Importance
And perhaps, as a resident of the UAE, you have questioned yourself, what is unified number and why is it seen on your visa sticker and Emirates IDs. Unified number (also referred to as UID (Unified ID)) is a 15-digit identification number that is a permanent number issued by the UAE immigration authorities (GDRFA or ICP). Unifying this number is unlike other identity numbers which may be changed within a short period of time but the unified number remains with you always, even when you switch your visa status or reissue your Emirates ID.
It is critical to comprehend what unified number means since the number will help relate your immigration history, residency records, personal identity details in the government systems of the UAE. It is what builds your identity profile in the country.
Key Features of the Unified Number
1. Permanent Identity
The primary argument why people inquire about what unified number is is that they observe that unlike a visa number, it does not change. The unique number is not expired or replaced. Your UID does not change when you switch employers, renew your residency visa or even change your visa types. It serves as your life-long identification in the UAE immigration registers.
2. Essential for Government Services
Discussing the notion of what is unified number, it should be known to what extent it is used in government e-services. The UID is required for:
- Applying for or renewing an Emirates ID
- Accessing immigration services
- Processing residency permits
- Updating personal information with government portals
Because the UAE government is a heavily digital one, the unified number will guarantee the accuracy and consistency of all systems.
3. Issued by GDRFA/ICP
This is automatically generated as an entry permit or residence visa is generated and then issued as one unified number. This number is given to anyone who enters the UAE either to live, work, and in other long-term intentions. It is added to your identity profile even prior to your issuance of Emirates ID.
Difference Between Unified Number, Emirates ID, and Visa Number
One of the greatest confusions is the conception of the distinction between the three key identification numbers in the UAE. Here is how they differ:
Unified Number (UID)
- Permanent, never changes
- Assigned on first entry
- Immigration record and identity tracking.
Emirates ID Number
- Associated with your physical Emirates ID card.
- Alterations every time the card is renewed.
- Applied in residency, banking, medical, and everyday life.
Visa Number
- The residence visa is printed and put on the residence.
- Changes with every new visa
- Application to visa-related services.
This segregation assists government systems to deal with identity, residency and visa data in a more effective way.
Where to Find Your Unified Number
Your single number is available in a number of locations:
- UAE residence visa sticker in the passport.
- Within the Emirates id app record.
- On immigration papers issued by GDRFA or ICP.
In case you lose your documents, the single number can also be accessed via online portals or by calling the immigration officials.
