How To Use Your Emirates ID

Convenient things you can use your Emirates ID for

Pay for petrol, withdraw cash and more 

If you live in the UAE then you must have an Emirates ID (it’s a legal requirement), which means knowing what you can do with one when moving to Dubai is useful information.

Emirates IDs are issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship to all UAE citizens and residents. 

The identity card holds important information in its electronic chip such as the holder’s basic information, photo and biometric data and fingerprints. 

You may have thought that your EID was just a requirement, but did you know that you can use the piece of plastic for a handful of other useful things? Well, you can and here are all the ways how. 

How to use your Emirates ID to withdraw money from an ATM

Several banks in the UAE allow customers to withdraw money by using their Emirates ID. 

You must bank with the bank and different banks have different rules. 

If you are an Emirates NBD customer. You can withdraw cash with your EID if you have the Emirates NBD mobile app on your phone. You’ll use the app to generate a code that you’ll then use at the ATM to withdraw the amount you need.

Mashreq Bank allows customers to open accounts, pay their bills, update their personal information and withdraw and deposit cash by just showing their Emirates ID.

When using a Mashreq ATM, the customer’s existing bank cards will appear on the ATM screen, allowing them to choose from a number of options including cash withdrawal, local and international transfers and chequebook and statement requests.

Emirates IDs can also be used for cash withdrawals and transfers through Al Hilal Bank’s ATMs.

How to use your Emirates ID to pay for fuel at petrol stations 

If you want to use your Emirates ID to pay for fuel you need to download an ADNOC Wallet. Once you have the app, your Emirates ID is linked to it and you can add money to your account.

When filling up your petrol tank at ADNOC petrol stations you can insert your EID into the card payment slot and follow the on-screen instructions to pay for your fuel.

You can also use your EID to pay for stuff at ADNOC Oasis convenience stores and car washes if you have an ADNOC Wallet.

How to use your Emirates ID as your health insurance card 

Don’t worry if you forget your health insurance card during your next visit to the doctor’s clinic as you can show your Emirates ID. Medical service providers can use EIDs to process medical insurance. 

How to use your Emirates ID at DXB airport’s e-gates

Smart gates are an automated self-service border control system. They use facial recognition technology to identify travellers and can be found at Terminal 3 of DXB airport. 

Smart gates match faces to data connected to immigration databases which will know if the traveller is a UAE National, GCC National, UAE resident or a visa-on-arrival guest.

If you want to use your Emirates ID to head through the smart gate then all you need to do is swipe your Emirates ID card and look into the green light at the gate. You must remove glasses, hats and face masks before passing through.

How to use your Emirates ID to get discounts 

Probably the most fun aspect of holding an Emirates ID is that it can unlock discounts across the UAE. 

Several hotels and attractions offer cut-price deals to residents and all you have to do is flash your EID. 

Want to know how to save by being a UAE resident? Check out Dubai resident deals.