Starting August 18, 2025, Emirati citizens will enjoy a welcome boost in convenience: you can now renew your passport up to one year before it expires, doubling the previous six-month window. This new policy, announced by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), will make travel planning easier and official paperwork smoother.
What’s Changing?
Previously, you had to wait until just six months before your passport’s expiry to renew it. Now, the ICP has extended this window to one year, allowing more flexibility and time to handle travel and administrative needs without stress.
Why This Matters for UAE Residents
- Plan ahead for trips with less pressure on timing.
- Avoid sudden renewals during busy travel seasons.
- Streamline transactions that require valid passports.
- Embrace digital convenience through ICP’s smart services platform.
How It Works
All eligible passport renewals must be processed through the ICP’s smart services platform—either via their official website or mobile app. This digital-first service makes renewal fast, easy, and hassle-free.
Boosting the UAE Passport’s Global Strength
The move comes at a time when the UAE passport is gaining global prestige. As of 2025, it ranks 8th in the world in the Henley Passport Index, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 185 countries—an impressive leap from its 15th spot in 2022 and 2023.
By allowing earlier renewals, authorities aim to further enhance this ranking and set a new standard for passport services in the region.
Official Comment from ICP
Ali Mohammed Al Shamsi, Chairman of the ICP, highlighted that the change is part of a broader vision to offer proactive, digital-first government services. He emphasized that making renewal easier not only improves citizens’ quality of life but also strengthens the UAE’s identity system and passport prestige globally.
Quick Overview
| Before | Now | Starts |
|---|---|---|
| Renew 6 months before expiry | Renew up to 12 months before expiry | August 18, 2025 |
- Processed via the ICP’s smart services platform.
- Supports early travel planning and seamless admin procedures.
- Enhances the global standing of the UAE passport.
Final Takeaway
If your passport expires within the year, don’t wait—renew it now! This new rule gives UAE citizens greater flexibility and peace of mind, while reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in travel and public administration efficiency.
