May 29, 2026 · United Arab Emirates
UAE Passport Photo Requirements 2026 – Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship Rules
The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) issues UAE passports and Emirates IDs using ICAO biometric standards. This guide covers the official photo specifications for the UAE passport, the Emirates ID card, UAE residency visas, entry visas for non-GCC nationals, and the religious headwear policy for biometric photos.
Quick summary
35×45mm, plain white background, neutral expression, no glasses, both eyes fully visible, taken within 6 months. ICA follows the ICAO biometric standard. Hijab permitted (face fully visible); niqab not accepted for biometric photos.
Core Photo Requirements
The following specifications apply to all UAE passport applications and renewals processed by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA), including applications at the UAE Embassy in Berlin for UAE citizens residing in Germany.
- Size: 35mm wide × 45mm tall (ICAO standard).
- Background: Plain white. No shadows, patterns, or colour gradients. The background must be uniformly white.
- Expression: Neutral. Mouth closed. Both eyes fully open and directed at the camera.
- Glasses: Not permitted. ICA follows the ICAO standard prohibiting all eyewear in biometric passport photos.
- Recency: Taken within 6 months of the application date.
- Colour: Full colour only. Black-and-white photos are not accepted.
- Retouching: No digital filters or alterations to your appearance.
Religious Headwear: Hijab Permitted, Niqab Not Accepted
A hijab is permitted in UAE passport and Emirates ID photos for religious reasons, provided the full face — including forehead, jawline, and all facial features — is completely visible. No shadows may fall on the face from the head covering.
The niqab (face veil) is not accepted for biometric passport and Emirates ID photos. The ICA biometric system requires a full facial image for the chip data, which is not compatible with a face covering. Confirm the current policy with the ICA or your local UAE Embassy.
Emirates ID Card Photo Requirements
The Emirates ID is a mandatory identity card for all UAE citizens and residents. It is issued by the ICA and uses the same 35×45mm ICAO photo specifications as the UAE passport. In practice, the biometric photograph for the Emirates ID is typically captured on-site at an ICA customer service centre during the enrolment process — you generally do not bring a printed photo for Emirates ID enrolment.
The Emirates ID and UAE passport are often applied for or renewed together. Confirm the current process for each document with the ICA or through the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security) smart services portal.
UAE Residency Visa and Entry Visa Photo Requirements
Foreign nationals residing in the UAE require a UAE residency visa (residence permit), which uses the same 35×45mm ICAO photo specifications as the passport. Non-GCC nationals visiting the UAE may also need to submit a photo for their entry visa application.
- Size: 35×45mm, white background, neutral expression, no glasses.
- Taken within 6 months of the visa application date.
- Printed on glossy or semi-matte photographic paper.
- Visa applications from Germany: contact the UAE Embassy in Berlin.
Many UAE visa applications are now processed digitally through the ICA or GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) portals. Digital photo uploads typically require a JPEG file at a minimum resolution of 300 DPI.
UAE Documents: Photo Requirement Comparison
| Document | Photo size | Background | Glasses | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🇦🇪 UAE Passport | 35×45mm | White | No | ICAO biometric, ICA issued |
| 🪪 Emirates ID | 35×45mm (on-site) | ICA controlled | No | On-site biometric capture |
| 🏠 UAE Residency Visa | 35×45mm | White | No | GDRFA / ICA process |
| 🛂 UAE Entry Visa | 35×45mm | White | No | Non-GCC nationals |
Always verify current requirements with the ICA (icp.gov.ae) or your nearest UAE Embassy.
Common Rejection Reasons for UAE Passport Photos
Glasses or eyewear visible
Remove all glasses before the photo. Prescription frames are not exempt from the ICAO requirement.
Background not plain white
Use a uniformly white background. Off-white, cream, light grey, or coloured backgrounds are not accepted.
Shadow on the face or background
Stand at least 1 metre from the background wall. Use even front lighting to eliminate all shadows.
Niqab or face covering in photo
The full face must be visible for biometric scanning. Hijab is permitted; niqab is not accepted.
Photo older than 6 months
Retake the photo within 6 months of your application date.
Digital filters or beauty retouching applied
Submit the photo without any digital filters, skin smoothing, or appearance alterations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a UAE passport photo?
UAE passport photos must be 35×45mm (width × height), following the ICAO biometric standard. The face must be centred, fully visible from chin to crown, with a neutral expression and both eyes fully open.
What background colour is required for a UAE passport photo?
The background must be plain white, uniformly lit with no shadows on the background or behind the head. The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) follows the ICAO white background requirement.
Can I wear a hijab in a UAE passport photo?
Yes. A hijab is permitted for religious reasons, provided the full face — including forehead, jawline, and all facial features — is completely visible. The niqab (face veil) is not accepted for biometric passport or Emirates ID photos, as the face must be fully visible for the biometric scan.
Are glasses allowed in UAE passport photos?
No. The ICA requires passport photos without glasses, following the ICAO biometric standard. All eyewear — including prescription glasses — must be removed before the photo is taken.
Is the Emirates ID photo the same as the UAE passport photo?
The Emirates ID uses the same 35×45mm ICAO photo specifications as the UAE passport. In practice, the biometric photo for the Emirates ID is typically captured on-site at an ICA customer service centre. For a UAE passport, confirm whether you need to bring printed photos or whether an on-site capture will be performed.
What are the photo requirements for a UAE residency visa or entry visa?
UAE residency visa and entry visa applications require the same 35×45mm ICAO photo: white background, neutral expression, no glasses, face fully visible. For applications submitted from Germany, contact the UAE Embassy in Berlin.
Always verify current requirements with the official authority — Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (icp.gov.ae) or your nearest UAE Embassy. Requirements may be updated without notice.
Create Your UAE Passport Photo Online
ICAO-compliant 35×45mm biometric photo with correct white background and neutral expression. Free preview — pay only when satisfied.
Get Your Compliant Passport Photo — From EUR 4.99 / CHF 4.99 →