Last Updated: June 2026
Complete photo specifications for UAE passport applications, UAE visa applications, Emirates ID renewals, and residency permit applications. Covers all Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) requirements.
Complete official photo specifications. Meet every requirement to avoid costly application delays.
| Requirement | Specification | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Photo Size | 40×60mm | ICA standard for UAE passports and visas |
| Head Size | 28–36mm | Measured from chin to crown |
| Background | Pure white | No off-white, cream, or shadows |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed | Eyes open, looking directly at camera |
| Glasses | Not Allowed | Prohibited for UAE documents |
| Head Coverings | Allowed for religious reasons | Hijab and other religious coverings permitted |
| Recency | Within last 6 months | Current likeness required |
| Color | Color Required | No black & white |
| Quantity | 2–4 photos | Check specific visa/document type requirements |
| DPI | 600 DPI minimum | High resolution required |
| Clothing | Formal or smart casual | No uniform except traditional dress |
| Emirates ID | Same 40×60mm format | Used for ID renewals and visa stamping |
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICA) governs all UAE identity document photos. Their requirements are strictly enforced.
Hijab and other Islamic head coverings are permitted for UAE passport photos provided the face remains fully visible from hairline to chin and ear to ear.
The same 40×60mm photo format is used for UAE passports, UAE visas, Emirates ID (EIDA), and residency permits — convenient for new UAE residents.
Submit applications in person at AMER Service Centers (formerly Jawazat) or authorized typing centers. Photos are verified on submission.
UAE nationals can wear traditional dress (kandura, abaya) in passport photos. This is specifically permitted and not treated as a head covering restriction.
The ICA Smart Services portal accepts digital photo uploads for some applications. Use the tool's digital download (JPEG) for online submissions.
Follow these steps to generate a compliant, print-ready UAE passport photo in minutes.
Stand against a plain white wall. UAE requirements are strict about background purity. Use natural light or soft indoor lighting. Look directly at the camera with a neutral expression.
Choose 'UAE' in the country selector. The tool applies 40×60mm dimensions and a pure white background meeting ICA specifications for passports, visas, and Emirates ID.
Verify that your face fills the correct proportion of the frame, eyes are clearly visible, and the background is uniformly white. The AI compliance checker flags any issues.
Download and print 2–4 identical 40×60mm photos on photo-quality paper. Submit to the relevant UAE authority: ICA centers, AMER Service Centers, or the UAE visa application portal.
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about UAE passport photo requirements.
Applying for visas across multiple countries? Check exact requirements for each.
Key details about UAE passport processing, fees, and where to submit your application.
Run through every item before printing and submitting. Each point is a potential rejection reason.
These are the most frequent reasons for passport photo rejection. Avoid them to ensure first-time acceptance.
UAE requires pure white. Any tint, shadow, or imperfection in the background causes photo rejection at ICA centers.
While hijab is permitted, the entire face from hairline to chin and ear to ear must be visible. Any hair, fabric, or covering that obscures the face causes rejection.
Both UAE passport and Emirates ID use 40×60mm. Ensure you're not using a 35×45mm photo from another country's requirement.
UAE nationals renew passports at ICA centers. Expatriates submit visa applications at typing centers or through online portals. Going to the wrong location wastes your appointment.
Emirates ID renewals require fresh photos. Don't reuse photos from a previous ID cycle as they may be older than 6 months.
Non-UAE military or police uniforms are not allowed. Traditional UAE national dress (kandura, abaya) is specifically permitted.
Applying for multiple passports or visas? See how UAE's photo requirements compare to other popular destinations.
| Country | Photo Size | Background | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | 51×51mm (2×2") | White background | 4 photos required for PSK |
| Saudi Arabia | 40×60mm | White background | Similar Gulf Council format |
| China | 33×48mm | White background | 2 photos required |
| United States | 2×2" (51×51mm) | White background | 2 photos required |
Requirements updated June 2026. Always verify with the official issuing authority before submitting your application.
Our network of professional photographers can take your passport photo in person with guaranteed compliance for UAE applications.