Emirates ID Photo Requirements & Size

Q: What is the size of an Emirates ID in cm?

The photo must be 3.5 × 4.5 cm. The physical card itself is standard ID-1 size (like a bank card, 8.56 × 5.4 cm).

Q: Where can I get an Emirates ID photo taken?

Any professional photo studio — ask for an Emirates ID photo, 35 by 40 mm, white background. For first-time applications, the photo is taken at the ICP centre during biometrics.

Q: Can I use a selfie for my Emirates ID photo?

Not recommended — wrong angle, distance, shadows and filters trigger rejection. Use a tripod, plain white wall and daylight, and verify every spec before uploading.

A wrong photo is the single most common reason Emirates ID applications get delayed or rejected. The Emirates ID photo requirements are strict: 35 × 40 mm, white background, neutral expression, no smiling — and the picture taken at your biometrics appointment stays on your card for years.

This guide lists the exact specs, the do’s and don’ts, and the mistakes that send applications back.

Emirates ID photo requirements and size — emirates id photo requirements: 35x40mm specs and common rejections — 35 × 40 mm, white background, neutral face — get it right the first time.

Official Photo Specifications

Requirement	Specification
Size	35 × 40 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm)
Background	Plain white (or very light)
Recency	Taken within the last 6 months
Quality	Colour, high resolution (≥600 dpi for uploads)
Expression	Neutral — no smiling or frowning, mouth closed
Head position	Straight, parallel to the lens, fully visible
Eyes	Open, looking at the camera; no coloured contact lenses
Glasses	Allowed only if no reflection or glare
Dress	Normal attire per national/religious dress code
Head coverings	Only for religious reasons, full face must be visible

Emirates ID photo size and spec table — emirates id photo requirements: dimensions, background and expression rules — Print this checklist before visiting the studio or the ICP centre.

Do’s and Don’ts

✅ Do	❌ Don’t
Face the camera directly, shoulders square	Tilt your head or take angled selfies
Keep a neutral, relaxed expression	Smile, frown or show teeth
Use a plain white background	Use patterned walls or outdoor shots
Remove sunglasses and hats	Wear tinted or reflective lenses
Ensure even lighting, no shadows on the face	Use heavy filters or retouching

Babies need photos too — and the same rules apply: eyes must be open and the face fully visible. Lay the baby on a white sheet and photograph from directly above for newborn applications.

Emirates ID photo dos and don'ts — emirates id photo requirements: common mistakes that cause rejection — Retouched or filtered photos are rejected — keep it natural.

Where the Photo Is Taken

First-time applications: the photo is taken digitally at the ICP Customer Happiness Centre during biometrics — you don’t upload one yourself. Dress accordingly; this picture goes on your card.
Online renewals/replacements: you may be asked to upload a photo meeting the specs above. Use a professional studio and ask explicitly for “Emirates ID photo, 35 × 40 mm”.

Applying soon? Read how to apply for an Emirates ID and how to renew for the full processes.

Studio vs DIY: Getting the Photo Taken

You have two options for the upload photo (renewals/replacements); first-time applicants get photographed at the ICP centre itself:

Professional studio (recommended): ask explicitly for an “Emirates ID photo, 35 × 40 mm, white background”. Studios near ICP centres dozens daily and know the specs — around AED 30–50 for a set.
DIY at home: plain white wall, daylight from a window (no flash), phone on a tripod at eye level, 1.5 metres away. Check the result against the spec table above before uploading.

For first-time applications, dress for the camera on biometrics day. The ICP centre takes your photo on the spot — wear what you’d want on an ID card for the next 2–3 years, and arrive with hair and attire already compliant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptable photo size for Emirates ID?

35 × 40 mm (3.5 × 4.5 cm), in colour, on a plain white background, taken within the last 6 months. Uploads should be high resolution (at least 600 dpi).

Can I smile in my Emirates ID photo?

No — a neutral expression is required: mouth closed, no smiling or frowning. The head must be straight and parallel to the lens with eyes open toward the camera.

What is the size of an Emirates ID in cm?

The photo must be 3.5 × 4.5 cm. The physical card itself is standard ID-1 size (like a bank card, 8.56 × 5.4 cm).

Can I wear glasses in my Emirates ID photo?

Glasses are allowed only if there is no reflection or glare obscuring the eyes. Sunglasses, tinted lenses and coloured contact lenses are not permitted.

Can I wear a hijab in my Emirates ID photo?

Yes — head coverings for religious reasons are permitted, but the full face must be clearly visible from forehead to chin with no shadows.

Why was my Emirates ID photo rejected?

The usual causes: wrong size, non-white background, smiling, shadows or glare, heavy retouching, or an old photo. Fix the specific issue noted in the rejection and resubmit — or have it taken at the ICP centre.

Do babies need a photo for Emirates ID?

Yes — newborns need a compliant photo with eyes open and face fully visible (no fingerprints under age 15, but the photo is mandatory). See the newborn Emirates ID guide.

Where can I get an Emirates ID photo taken?

Any professional photo studio — ask for an ‘Emirates ID photo, 35 × 40 mm, white background’. Studios near ICP centres handle these daily. For first-time applications, the photo is taken at the ICP centre during biometrics, so no studio visit is needed.

Can I use a selfie for my Emirates ID photo?

Not recommended. Selfies are usually taken at the wrong angle and distance, with shadows or filters that trigger rejection. If you must DIY, use a tripod, plain white wall and daylight — then verify every spec before uploading.

Emirates ID guides: Complete Guide · How to Apply · Renewal · Newborn ID · Centres & Booking