Your Emirates ID does far more than prove who you are. It holds key details that help you move, pay, and access services across the country. Many residents use it daily without knowing its full power. Here are seven useful and surprising ways to make the most of your card.
1. Use it for easy travel
Your Emirates ID helps when travelling within the region.
If you drive to Oman, you must show your ID at the border. UAE citizens can also use it to travel to GCC countries without a passport.
Some countries that offer visa-on-arrival may ask residents to present their ID along with travel papers. Keep it handy during trips.
2. Access government services faster
Most services in the UAE need your ID.
You will use it for your driver’s licence, rental contracts, mobile number registration, and fine payments.
It also helps you register for UAE Pass, the digital identity system used for many online services. With UAE Pass, you can sign documents and access government portals with one login.
3. Pay for petrol at ADNOC
Your Emirates ID can act like a payment card at ADNOC stations.
You only need to link it to the ADNOC Wallet app. After linking, insert the ID at the pump and the payment is taken from your wallet.
You can also use it for car washes and store purchases at ADNOC stations. It helps track spending and unlocks offers.
4. Withdraw cash without your bank card
Some banks let you use your Emirates ID at ATMs.
Banks like Emirates NBD, ADCB, Mashreq, and Al Hilal allow ID-based withdrawals.
You activate the feature through your mobile banking app. At the ATM, you insert your ID, enter the one-time code sent to your phone, and collect your cash.
If your bank does not support this, you can still use cardless withdrawal options through your banking app.
5. Use it at clinics and hospitals
If you forget your health insurance card, your ID can help.
Most insurance plans in the UAE are linked to the Emirates ID.
Medical centres can scan the ID to view your coverage and process your visit.
This keeps check-ins smooth and helps avoid delays during emergencies.
6. Keep your banking and telecom records updated
When your ID is renewed, your bank and mobile provider need the updated details.
Banks often send SMS reminders to update KYC details. You can update them through apps, websites, ATMs, or customer support.
Telecom providers also send alerts so your mobile number stays active without issues.
7. Unlock resident-only discounts
Many hotels, theme parks, and attractions offer special resident rates.
Your Emirates ID is often needed to claim these discounts.
Before booking a stay or purchasing tickets, check if a resident offer is live. The savings can be significant during holidays and peak seasons.
These uses show how central your ID is to daily life. It helps you travel, save money, access services, and stay connected.
Need help with ID updates, visa work, company formation or government services? AR Associates handles the process with clear steps and quick support. Reach out today for stress-free guidance.
