The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) announced today, September 9, 2025, a significant enhancement to the UAE's digital identity infrastructure, further streamlining services for both citizens and residents, including the large expat community. The "Emirates Digital ID 2.0" initiative, building on the existing Emirates ID, integrates an expanded array of government and private sector services directly into a secure digital platform accessible via smartphone applications.Key improvements include faster visa and residency permit renewal processes, instant verification for rental agreements and utility connections, and secure digital signatures for various legal documents, significantly reducing the need for physical paperwork and office visits. For English-speaking expats, this means a more efficient and user-friendly experience when interacting with government entities and service providers. The upgrade is designed to be intuitive, with multilingual support embedded in the new digital interface. The ICP emphasized enhanced data security protocols and privacy measures, ensuring resident information is protected with the latest encryption technologies. The phased rollout of these new features will begin immediately, with full integration expected across all major government services by the end of Q1 2026. Training modules and support hotlines in multiple languages are being established to assist residents in adapting to the new system, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to digital transformation and resident convenience.