How to Change the Mobile Number Linked to Your Emirates ID (2025 Updated Guide)
Your Emirates ID is more than just an identity card, it’s the key to banking, government apps, service portals and everyday life in the UAE. If your mobile number attached to that card is outdated you could miss important messages, OTPs or face delays in visas and services. In this guide you will learn exactly how to update the mobile number linked to your Emirates ID in 2025 the fastest ways to do it what you’ll need how much it costs and how to avoid the common pitfalls.
Why you should update your mobile number right away
- When you log into government apps or services One-Time Password (OTP) is often sent to the number linked to your card. If the number is inactive or changed you will not get the OTP.
- Alerts about card printing, renewal, visa status, fines or benefits often go to your registered number.
- If you are using a new SIM or have changed your telecom operator updating ensures your record stays accurate and you remain compliant.
- Failing to update can mean missed deadlines stalled visa renewals or disrupted access to online services.
(Source: general and competitor mention) Bestax Chartered Accountants+1
What you’ll need before you begin
Before you start, make sure you have:
- Your Emirates ID number the one printed on the card.
- The passport number and residence visa file number (if you are a resident)
- A UAE-issued mobile number (this must be active and able to receive SMS/OTP) — note: non-UAE numbers are not accepted. Bestax Chartered Accountants+1
- A valid debit/credit card or other accepted payment method for the service fee
- Access to the number you are about to register so you can verify via OTP.
- Email address for receipt/confirmation
Having all of these ready will save time and avoid delays.
How to change the mobile number three main methods
Online via the ICP Smart Services portal
- Go to the official Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security Smart Services website (smartservices.icp.gov.ae). Gulf News+1
- Click “Start Service” for > Personal Information → Update Personal Information. My Blog
- Fill in your nationality, Emirates ID number, file number, passport number, date of birth, email and new mobile number. Some portals may ask for last entry date into UAE. Bestax Chartered Accountants
- Submit the new mobile number and wait for an OTP to be sent to it. Enter the OTP, complete any captcha.
- Pay the service fee, review your details and submit.
- Keep the reference number you receive and you may get confirmation via SMS or email once the update is complete.
- Typical processing time: 2 to 7 working days, may vary. Virtuzone
Using the UAEICP mobile app
- Download and install the UAEICP app (available for iOS and Android). Virtuzone
- Log in with your credentials or UAE Pass.
- Choose the option for Update Personal Info or Data Update.
- Enter your Emirates ID details, file/visa number, new mobile number. Verify via OTP.
- Pay the fee via app, get the reference ID and wait for confirmation.
- You can check application status using the reference number within the app.
In-Person at a Typing Centre or Customer Happiness Centre
- If you prefer or need in-person assistance (for example: your portal login isn’t working, or you have other details to change) you can visit an authorised typing centre, or an ICP Customer Happiness Centre.
- Bring originals: your Emirates ID card, passport/residence visa copy, and your new mobile number.
- The staff will submit the update on your behalf (often higher fee due to service charge).
- You’ll receive SMS or email once the data update is complete.
Fees & Timeline what to expect
- Online/app: The service fee listed by some sources is AED 53–60 for purely updating the mobile number. Bestax Chartered Accountants
- Typing centres / in-person may charge higher (AED 100 or more including channel fees). Virtuzone
- Processing time varies:
- Online/app: typically 1–3 working days (some say up to 2–7 days) Bestax Chartered Accountants+1
- In-person: could be same day to a few days depending on workload.
- Online/app: typically 1–3 working days (some say up to 2–7 days) Bestax Chartered Accountants+1
- Note: Always check the exact fee at your point-of-service because channel fees may vary.
How to confirm the update & what happens next
- After you submit, use the reference number you received to check status in the ICP portal or app. Virtuzone
- You will receive an SMS or email confirming the update.
- Once the mobile number shows as updated, any OTPs, service messages or alerts will go to the new number.
- Important: Changing your mobile number in the ICP system does not automatically update your details with every bank, operator or service provider. For full effect, you should update your number with your bank, telecom provider and any e-government login that still uses the old number. (Competitors mention this but lightly.) Virtuzone
- If you still receive messages on the old number or cannot log in, revisit the portal/app or contact ICP support (600 522 222) ICP
Common issues & how to fix them
| Issue | What it means | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No OTP to new number | SIM may not be active, or mobile network issue | Ensure the SIM is UAE-issued, active; toggle airplane mode; request resend. Virtuzone |
| OTP sent to old number | You logged out or used wrong workflow | Log-in first, then choose Data Update while signed-in so OTP goes to new number. Virtuzone |
| “Record not found” or error | Mistyped Emirates ID number, file number incorrect | Double-check your file number (on visa copy) and your Emirates ID number carefully. Virtuzone |
| Payment failed / portal timeout | Browser issue, card issue or peak hours | Try another browser or time, use different payment card; switch method if needed. Virtuzone |
FAQs
Can I link a foreign mobile number (outside the UAE) to my Emirates ID?
Not only are UAE-issued mobile numbers accepted for the service. Bestax Chartered Accountants
Will my physical Emirates ID card be changed after updating my mobile number?
No the physical card remains the same. This update only changes the electronic record attached to your card. Virtuzone
What if I changed my number, but I’m currently abroad?
In most cases, you must be in the UAE, hold an active UAE number, and able to receive OTP on that number. Doing it abroad might cause verification issues. Virtuzone
Is there a legal requirement to update contact details?
Yes the UAE government requires residents to update contact and personal details under the ICP system. Failure may result in service disruption or delays. Bestax Chartered Accountants
How long will it take for the new number to work for all services?
Once your status shows “updated,” the new number should begin receiving OTPs and notifications. Other services (banks, telecoms) may still reference the old number unless you update separately.
Conclusion
Updating the mobile number linked to your Emirates ID is a quick but important task. If you use the online portal, mobile app or head to a centre, make sure you have all your documents ready, the new UAE number active and some payment method on hand. Once done, double-check your record and don’t forget to update any other services you use, such as banking, telecom, and apps.
