INTRODUCTION
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a hub of economic activity, with many businesses operating in the region. To help streamline the process of business registration and improve communication between businesses and government authorities, the Ministry of Economy introduced the Unified Number UAE. This unique identification number serves as a code for businesses, allowing for easier tracking and monitoring by government authorities. In this article, we will explore the Unified Number UAE in more detail, including its purpose, application process, benefits, and renewal requirements.
Unified Number UAE: What is it?
The Unified Number UAE is a seven-digit code that serves as a unique identification number for businesses in the UAE. It was introduced by the Ministry of Economy in 2012 as a way to simplify the process of business registration and to improve communication between businesses and government authorities.
The Unified Number UAE is mandatory for all businesses in the UAE, including those with foreign ownership. The system allows for easy tracking of businesses by government authorities, making it easier to enforce regulations and improve record keeping.
Benefits of Having a Unified Number UAE
Having a Unified Number UAE provides several benefits for businesses in the UAE. One of the most significant advantages is that it simplifies the process of business registration. With a Unified Number UAE, businesses can register with multiple government authorities using a single application form.
The Unified Number UAE also makes communication with government authorities more efficient. With this number, businesses can easily access government services and communicate with authorities regarding regulations, licenses, and other legal requirements.
Finally, having a Unified Number UAE improves record keeping and data management for businesses. The system allows for accurate tracking of businesses by government authorities, which can help prevent fraud and illegal activities.
How to Apply for a Unified Number UAE?
Applying for a Unified Number UAE is a relatively simple process. Business owners can apply for a Unified Number UAE online or offline. The online application process can be done through the Ministry of Economy’s website, while the offline application can be done by visiting any branch of the Ministry of Economy.
To apply for a Unified Number UAE, business owners will need to provide several documents, including their trade license, passport copy, and Emirates ID. Once the application is submitted, it can take up to ten working days for the Unified Number UAE to be issued.
How to find your UNIFIED NUMBER UAE on your Residency Visa?
If you are a resident of the UAE, your Unified Number is printed on your residency visa. To find your Unified Number, you can follow these simple steps:
Take out your residency visa and look for the 13-digit number printed on it.

The first eight digits of the number represent your residency visa number, while the last five digits represent your Unified Number.
The Unified Number is usually printed in a smaller font size than the visa number, and may be located above or below the visa number.
Once you have located your Unified Number, you can use it to access various government services and conduct business activities in the UAE. It is important to keep your Unified Number up to date and renew it as required to ensure uninterrupted access to government services.
How to find your UID Number UAE Online?
To find your UID Number UAE online, you can follow these simple steps:
Go to this website: https://gdrfad.gov.ae/en/unified-number-inquiry-service
Provide your personal details such as passport number, nationality, date of birth, and gender as instructed.

Solve the math question displayed on the screen before proceeding.
Click on the submit button to retrieve your UID number UAE.
Importance of UID Number UAE
Your UID Number UAE holds significant value as it not only represents a mere number, but it also carries crucial information about you and the purpose of your visit or stay in the UAE. The first three digits of your UID correspond to the Emirate from which your visa was issued. For instance, if your visa was issued in Abu Dhabi, the first three digits of your UID would start with 101. Similarly, if your visa was issued in Dubai, the first three digits would begin with 201.
The next six digits represent your unique identifier, which distinguishes you from other individuals. The last few digits of your UID correspond to the year and month in which your visa was issued, providing more specific information about your entry or stay in the country.
In summary, the UID Number UAE serves as an essential identification tool that carries valuable information about an individual’s visa and stay in the UAE. It enables the authorities to monitor and regulate the country’s immigration policies effectively.
Difference Between UID Number UAE and Visa?
Understanding the UID Number UAE
The UID number UAE, also known as Emirates ID or UAE ID, is a unique 15-digit identification number assigned to all citizens and residents of the UAE. It serves as an official proof of identity for individuals and is mandatory for all residents over the age of 15. The UID number UAE contains personal information such as name, date of birth, gender, nationality, and photograph of the individual.
The UAE government issues the UID number UAE, and it is used in various transactions such as opening bank accounts, getting a driver’s license, and applying for residency visas. The UID number UAE is linked to the individual’s biometric data such as fingerprints, making it a secure form of identification.
Understanding the Visa
A visa is an official document that allows a foreign national to enter and stay in the UAE for a specified period. There are various types of visas issued by the UAE government, including tourist visas, employment visas, and residency visas. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of the individual’s visit.
Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 to 90 days and are issued to those visiting the UAE for leisure or business purposes. Employment visas are issued to individuals who have secured employment in the UAE and are valid for up to three years. Residency visas are issued to individuals who wish to reside in the UAE for an extended period, such as family members of UAE citizens or expatriates who own property in the UAE.
Difference Between UID Number UAE and Visa
The UID number UAE and visa are both important documents required to reside and work in the UAE, but they serve different purposes. The UID number UAE is an official identification number assigned to all residents of the UAE, while a visa is a temporary document that allows foreigners to enter and stay in the UAE for a specified period.
The UID number UAE is mandatory for all residents of the UAE, while a visa is only required for foreign nationals. The UID number UAE is a permanent form of identification, while a visa is valid for a specific period and needs to be renewed or extended if the individual wishes to stay in the UAE longer.
What other details are hidden in your UAE visa number?
Your UAE visa number has important details about your stay, work, and how long it’s valid. There are different codes at the beginning that tell if it’s for work or residency. The rest of the number has your passport number, name, job, and sponsor’s name if you have one. At the bottom, there’s a signature to show it’s real.
Can a person have many UID numbers?
In general, a person cannot have multiple UID numbers in the UAE. Only one UID is issued to each individual who enters, travels, or lives in the country. However, in some cases, there may be errors in the system that result in multiple UID numbers being assigned to the same person by mistake. If this happens, it is recommended to go to the GDRFA to have the numbers combined into one.
Benefits of Combining your UID Numbers
In the UAE, there is a process of merging your UID number, which stands for Unique Identification Number. This number is issued by the Emirates Identity Authority and is used to identify individuals for various government services.
The merging process involves combining your UID number with other identification numbers you may have, such as your residency visa number, passport number, and labor card number. This creates a single, unified identification number that can be used across all government services.
The benefits of merging your UID number include greater convenience, as you only need to remember one number, and improved accuracy and efficiency for government services. To merge your UID number, you can visit a service center of the Emirates Identity Authority or complete the process online through their website.
How to Combine your UID Number UAE?
To Combine your UID number UAE, you can follow these steps:
Visit a service center of the Emirates Identity Authority or go to their website.
Provide the required personal information, including your current UID number, residency visa number, passport number, and labor card number.
Submit your application for merging your UID number.
Once your application is processed, you will receive a notification with your new, merged UID number.
You can use this new UID number for all government services that require identification.
It’s important to keep in mind that merging your UID number is optional, but it can provide greater convenience and efficiency for accessing government services.
What is a UID number and why do I need it in the UAE?
A UID number is a unique identification number that is issued to residents of the UAE by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA). It is required for all official transactions, such as applying for visas, opening bank accounts, and registering for government services.
How do I apply for a UID number in the UAE?
You can apply for a UID number through the ICA’s online portal or by visiting one of their customer service centers. You will need to provide your passport, Emirates ID, and other personal information
What should I do if I lose my UID number?
If you lose your UID number, you can retrieve it through the ICA’s online portal by providing your Emirates ID number and other personal information. Alternatively, you can visit one of their customer service centers to retrieve it.