United Arab Emirates Passport, Visa, and ID Photos
Get your United Arab Emirates identity photos right by following official sizing and background rules. You can prepare your own images using the tool above.
Covered Documents and Sizes
The United Arab Emirates requires specific photo sizes for official identification documents. You need a 35×45 mm photo for a UAE passport, a UAE child passport, and an Emirates ID[1][2][3].
The listed 35×45 mm sizes for these documents are common sizes without a single official standard. The supplied facts do not list head-height measurements; check the relevant application instructions.
Submission Formats
The listed submission formats for UAE passport, child passport, Emirates ID, and driving licence photos are printed and digital[1][2][3][4].
The listed submission format is digital for residence visa, visitor visa, and work permit photos, and printed for the international driving permit photo[5][6][7][8]. Check the specific application instructions.
Taking the Photo at Home
Taking your photo at home is simple if you set up your space properly. Stand about one meter away from a plain white wall to avoid harsh shadows behind you.
Ask a friend or family member to take the picture using a back camera, which has better quality than a front selfie camera. Hold the camera steady at your eye level so your face looks natural and proportional.
Background and Lighting
ICP photo guidance specifies a white background[1]. Follow the photo instructions for the document you are applying for.
Good lighting helps avoid shadows on your face or the wall behind you. Face a window or use soft indoor lighting to keep your features clear. Keep your camera at eye level about one meter away to avoid distortion.
Posing and Expression
Look straight into the camera lens with a neutral expression. Keep your mouth closed and your eyes wide open.
Avoid smiling or frowning, as official systems require a natural, neutral look for facial recognition. Keep your head straight and do not tilt it to the side. Taking multiple test shots helps you find the right posture.
Glasses and Head Coverings
If you wear prescription glasses, check if they create glare on your lenses. It is often safest to remove them to prevent rejection by official scanners.
Religious head coverings are allowed if they do not obscure your face from your chin to your forehead. Make sure your eyes and facial edges remain fully visible.
Printing and Cutting
If your application needs printed copies, plan how you will cut them out. Use sharp scissors or a paper trimmer to keep the edges straight and clean.
Double-check the final 35×45 mm dimensions with a ruler before you submit your physical prints to the office.
Preparing Your Photo
If your application calls for a 35×45 mm photo, you can use the tool above to crop it. Remove the claim about the photo staying on the device unless the tool’s technical documentation confirms it.
Once you crop the image, you can arrange it on a standard 4x6 inch sheet to print at any local photo kiosk. This saves you time and money compared to visiting a commercial photo studio.
Frequently asked questions
Can I submit a digital photo for my UAE residence visa?
Yes, UAE residence visas require digital photo submission[5].
What background color is required?
ICP photo guidance specifies a white background[1]. Check the instructions for your specific application.
Do I need a specific head height for my Emirates ID photo?
Can I print my own photo sheet at home or at a kiosk?
Yes, you can arrange your cropped 35×45 mm photo onto a 4x6 inch sheet and print it at a standard kiosk.
Should I use the front or back camera on my phone?
Use the back camera with help from another person because it offers much better image quality than a front selfie camera.