UAE Passport Photo Requirements

About UAE Passport

The UAE passport is an official travel document issued to UAE citizens, enabling international travel and serving as proof of UAE citizenship. It’s one of the most powerful passports globally, offering visa-free access to numerous countries.

What is it used for?

• International travel and border crossings
• Proof of UAE citizenship and identity
• Visa applications for foreign countries
• Opening international bank accounts
• Business travel and official missions
• Emergency identification abroad
• Consular services and assistance

How to Obtain a UAE Passport

Eligibility:

• UAE citizens by birth or naturalization
• Must possess valid Emirates ID
• No outstanding legal issues or travel bans

Required Documents:

1. Original Emirates ID and copy
2. Birth certificate (original and copy)
3. Family book or marriage certificate (if applicable)
4. Previous passport (for renewals)
5. Passport-size photographs (2 copies)
6. Completed application form
7. Salary certificate (for employed applicants)

Application Process:

1. Visit ICP Center: Go to any Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship center
2. Submit Documents: Provide all required documents and photographs
3. Biometric Data: Provide fingerprints and digital signature
4. Pay Fees:
   • 5-year passport: AED 250
   • 10-year passport: AED 350
   • Express service: Additional AED 100
5. Collection: Passport ready in 3-5 working days (express: same day)

Processing Time:

• Regular processing: 3-5 working days
• Express processing: Same day
• Renewal: 2-3 working days

Validity Options:

• 5 years: AED 250
• 10 years: AED 350

Photo Specifications

Key Requirements

• Size: 35 × 45 mm (passport size)
• Face Height: 32–36 mm (measured from chin to crown)
• Background: Plain white, completely uniform
• Quality: High resolution (minimum 300 DPI), sharp focus, color only
• Recency: Taken within the last 6 months

Technical Specifications

• Head Position: Centered, facing directly forward
• Eye Level: Eyes positioned 50-60% from bottom of photo
• Shoulders: Both shoulders visible and level
• Expression: Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible
• Lighting: Even, professional lighting without shadows

Strict Requirements

• Background: Must be pure white, no patterns or textures
• Glasses: Allowed only if worn daily, no reflections, clear lenses only
• Headwear: Prohibited except for religious or medical reasons
• Clothing: Dark colors preferred, avoid white or light colors
• Expression: Serious, neutral expression required
• Eyes: Both eyes must be open and clearly visible

Common Rejection Reasons

Photo Quality Issues

• Insufficient resolution or pixelated images
• Blurry or out-of-focus photographs
• Over or under-exposed images
• Digital alterations or filters applied
• Poor color reproduction or saturation

Background Problems

• Non-white or colored backgrounds
• Shadows, patterns, or textures visible
• Uneven lighting creating background variations
• Objects or people visible in background

Composition Errors

• Incorrect photo dimensions (not 35×45mm)
• Face height outside 32-36mm range
• Head not centered or tilted
• Too much or too little space around head
• Improper cropping of shoulders

Appearance Issues

• Eyes closed, squinting, or looking away
• Mouth open or smiling
• Hair covering eyes or face
• Heavy makeup altering natural appearance
• Visible shadows on face

Technical Violations

• Photos older than 6 months
• Black and white or sepia-toned images
• Visible photo editing or retouching
• Wrong file format for digital submission
• Multiple exposures or double images

Tips for Perfect UAE Passport Photos

Professional Photography

• Use a professional photographer experienced with passport photos
• Ensure proper lighting setup and white background
• Take multiple shots to select the best one

DIY Photography Tips

1. Lighting: Use natural daylight or professional lighting
2. Background: Pure white wall or professional backdrop
3. Camera: Use high-resolution camera or smartphone
4. Position: Sit straight, look directly at camera
5. Distance: Maintain proper distance for correct face size
6. Clothing: Wear dark-colored, conservative clothing

Before Submission

• Verify all measurements and specifications
• Check for shadows, reflections, or blur
• Ensure photo is recent (within 6 months)
• Print on high-quality photo paper
• Keep digital copies for future use

Special Requirements

For Minors (Under 18):

• Parent or guardian must be present
• Same photo requirements apply
• Additional consent forms required
• Birth certificate mandatory

For Renewals:

• Previous passport must be surrendered
• New photos required even if appearance unchanged
• Expedited processing available

For Lost/Damaged Passports:

• Police report required for lost passports
• Additional documentation may be needed
• Higher fees may apply

Ready to apply for your UAE passport? Our AI-powered tool creates perfect passport photos that meet all official ICP requirements.