The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) is to issue upgraded passports, as part of the new generation of Emirati passports and national ID card project launched in June 2021.
Due to be issued on September 1, 2022, the new passport boasts of seven unique technical and security specifications that are not visible to the naked eye that limits attempts of forgery or falsification.
The federal authority explained that these specifications are represented in “a polycarbonate identification page that supports specialized printing, a holographic logo integrated with advanced features, a high-precision safety thread for enhanced protection, an advanced 3D intaglio printing documented with the date of birth, a transparent window bearing the state’s logo with distinctive artistic elements and decorative inscriptions, and a highly complex multispectral, laser-printed personal photo with high security features.”
The new passport retains the external features of the previous version including its shape and colour, but is totally redesigned on the inside. The identification page in the remodeled version includes high-quality three-dimensional tangible elements, including enhanced images and security marks that are not visible to the naked eye, which are laser-printed on thicker polycarbonate sheets that prevent damages. It also facilitates ease of processing at airports and ports.
The authority made it clear that the current passports are considered valid and holders can use them for travel until the expiry date approaches, while an application for renewal can be submitted to obtain the new one upon entering within the renewal entitlement period, which is six months before the expiry date recorded in the document. The new passport is deemed as an extension of the old one without any change in the prescribed fees or channels allocated for providing services of issue or renewal through the official website or ICP smart services.
The federal authority announced that the issuance of the new Emirati passports is part of the final phase of the project to develop a new generation of passports and ID cards as part of achieving its strategic objectives in support of the national goals and enhance international competitiveness.
HE Ali Mohammed Al Shamsi, Chairman of ICP adds, “The issuing of new passports is part of the UAE government’s vision to reinforce the national identity by using the latest technologies, and to provide distinct services on par with international standards. This project also aims to enhance flexibility in doing business in the UAE in order to improve the quality of life and provide a travel experience that strengthens the UAE’s leading position on the global map.”
