Emirates ID photo requirements
| Item | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Size | 35 × 40 mm (826 × 945 px at 600 DPI) |
| Background | Plain white |
| Photo age | Recent, not older than 6 months |
| Expression and head | Neutral, head straight, not tilted, facing the camera |
| Eyes and glasses | Eyes open, no coloured lenses. Glasses only if they do not hide the eyes or reflect light |
| Editing | No filters, retouching or edits |
Based on ICP guidance reported by UAE news outlets, checked in October 2026. Requirements can change, so confirm on the ICP website or app before you submit.
Related: UAE visa photo maker · UAE photo requirements explained
How to make your Emirates ID photo
- Take a photo. Stand in front of a plain white wall in daylight. Face the camera with your head straight and eyes open.
- Fit it. Add the photo above, then zoom and drag so your face sits inside the guide. Use the tool only to crop and resize. If the wall looks grey, retake the photo in better light, because the ICP does not accept edited photos.
- Download. Save the JPG and upload it in the ICP service. Check that it is sharp and that nothing looks changed.
Common reasons a photo is rejected
Shadows behind the head, a grey or cream wall, a tilted head, glare on glasses, a smiling or open mouth, a blurry or very small image, and an old photo. Retake the photo in better light instead of editing it.
Questions
What is the Emirates ID photo size?
The ICP asks for a recent colour photo about 35 × 40 mm on a white background. For online upload that is 826 × 945 px at 600 DPI. Always check the ICP portal or app you are using, as rules can change.
What background colour does an Emirates ID photo need?
White. Use a plain white wall with even light and no shadows behind you.
How recent must the photo be?
The ICP says the photo must be recent and not older than six months.
Can I wear glasses in my Emirates ID photo?
Glasses are accepted if they do not cover your eyes and do not reflect light. Your eyes must be open and looking at the camera, without coloured lenses.
Can I edit or filter my photo?
No. The ICP does not accept photos changed with editing software or filters. Use this tool only to crop and resize, and retake the photo against a real white wall instead of changing the background.
Are my images uploaded?
No. Everything happens inside your browser on your own device. Your files are never sent to any server.
Visa photos for other Gulf countries
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Frequently asked questions
What is the UAE visa photo size?
Dubai visa (GDRFA, online): 300 × 369 px, JPG, plain white background; Emirates ID / residence visa (ICP): 35 × 40 mm (826 × 945 px), JPG, white or light background; Printed visa photo: 43 × 55 mm, white background. Check the official portal before you apply, as rules can change.
How do I make the photo on my phone?
Take a photo against a plain white wall in good daylight. Open this page, add the photo, pick the size, drag and zoom so the face fits the guide, then download.
Can this tool make the background white?
Yes. Tap "Make background white" after adding your photo. It works best when you stand in front of a plain, evenly lit wall. Check the result before you download it.
Are my images uploaded?
No. Everything happens inside your browser on your own device. Your files are never sent to any server.