Change Mobile Number in Emirates ID: What to Do and Where to Update

Fadil Ileri
Jun 16, 2026
10:45 am

If your SIM is replaced, your old number is blocked, or you simply switched to a new line, it’s important to change mobile number Emirates ID records as soon as possible. Your registered phone number is used for OTPs (one-time passwords), service notifications, and identity verification across many UAE government services.

This guide explains where to update your Emirates ID mobile number, what documents you need, and step-by-step instructions to do it online or through service centers.

Why your Emirates ID mobile number matters

The mobile number linked to your Emirates ID profile is commonly used to:

Receive OTPs for ICA/ICP services, UAE Pass logins, and other government portals
Get status updates about applications and service requests
Verify identity when accessing or recovering accounts

If the number is outdated, you may be unable to complete online applications or sign in to services that rely on OTP verification.

Where to update your mobile number (online and offline options)

Option 1: Update online via ICP/ICA Smart Services

The most convenient method is the official ICP Smart Services portal, where you can request updates to your personal profile (including contact details) using digital verification.

If you already use ICA services for other checks, you may also find it helpful to review these ICA Smart Services steps to understand login and verification flows.

Option 2: Use UAE Pass for login/verification

Many ICA/ICP services support login through the official UAE Pass app. Keeping UAE Pass updated and accessible can make it easier to authenticate your request (especially if OTPs are involved).

Option 3: Visit an ICP Customer Happiness Center or an authorized typing center

If you can’t receive OTPs, don’t have online access, or your profile needs manual verification, visit an ICP Customer Happiness Center or an authorized typing center. They can submit the request on your behalf after confirming your identity and documents.

What you need to change your Emirates ID mobile number

Requirements can vary by case (resident vs. citizen, old number accessible vs. not), but typically you should prepare:

Emirates ID (card or number)
Passport (photo page)
Residence visa details (if applicable)
Your new UAE mobile number (active SIM, able to receive OTP)
Email address (often required for notifications)
UAE Pass access (recommended)

Tip: If your old number is still active, keep it with you during the update. Some verification steps may send an OTP to the previously registered number.

How to change mobile number in Emirates ID online (step-by-step)

Use these general steps to update your contact details through ICA/ICP. The exact wording of services can change on the portal, but the flow is usually similar.

Go to the ICP Smart Services website and sign in (often via UAE Pass).
Search for a personal data/contact update service (look for options like profile update, personal information update, or contact details update).
Enter your Emirates ID details and confirm your identity as requested.
Update your mobile number carefully (UAE format) and double-check for typos.
Complete OTP verification if prompted (this may go to the old or new number depending on the system step).
Pay any applicable service fee (fees can vary by channel and request type).
Submit the request and save your reference/transaction number.

How to update via typing center or Customer Happiness Center

If online verification fails, a typing center or ICP Customer Happiness Center can submit the change request for you. In most cases, you will:

Provide your Emirates ID and passport/visa details.
Give your new mobile number and email address.
Verify identity (may include signature or additional checks).
Pay the service/typing charges and receive a receipt with a reference number.

Keep the receipt until the update reflects across linked services.

How long does it take, and how to track status

Processing times can vary based on the channel used (online vs. service center), verification requirements, and system load. After submission, you can follow up using your transaction reference.

If your request is tied to an ID-related process or delivery, you can also use this guide for Emirates ID tracking to check progress where applicable.

Common problems and fixes

OTP is still going to my old number

This usually happens when the old number is still the primary contact in your profile. If you can’t access the old SIM, visit a typing center or ICP Customer Happiness Center to request a manual update after identity verification.

My new number is active, but I’m not receiving OTP

Check that:

The number is entered in the correct UAE format
Your phone has signal and can receive SMS
You are not blocking short codes or service messages

If it still doesn’t work, try again later or use an in-person channel.

I have pending fines or issues—will that block the update?

Some services may prompt you to resolve issues before proceeding. If you suspect outstanding items related to your ID record, you can review an Emirates ID fine check and clear any applicable payments through official channels.

FAQs: Change mobile number Emirates ID

Can I change my Emirates ID mobile number without UAE Pass?

Sometimes yes, but UAE Pass is commonly used for secure login/verification. If you can’t use UAE Pass or can’t receive OTPs, a typing center or ICP Customer Happiness Center is the reliable alternative.

Do I need to replace my Emirates ID card after updating my phone number?

Usually, no. Your mobile number is part of your profile/contact details, not a field printed on the card. Most updates are digital and don’t require reissuing the physical ID unless the authority specifically requests it.

Will changing my phone number affect other services (banks, telecom, visas)?

Updating your number in the ICA/ICP profile helps government service access, but you may still need to update your number separately with your bank, employer, telecom provider, and any apps/accounts that used your old number.

What if I typed the wrong number during the update?

Submit a correction request as soon as possible (online if you can still authenticate, or via a typing center if you cannot). Keep your application/reference number to speed up support.

Is it safe to use a typing center?

Authorized typing centers are commonly used for government service submissions. Choose a reputable, authorized center, and verify all details on the application summary before you approve submission.