If you’re living in the UAE, you have to have an Emirates ID – it’s the law.
The little plastic card, courtesy of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, holds your basic info, photo and even fingerprints on its electronic chip.
But guess what? Your EID isn’t just an identity card – it has some cool tricks up its sleeve.
Here’s how you can make the most of that plastic card.
How to use your Emirates ID to withdraw money from an ATM
Several banks in the UAE allow customers to withdraw money by using their Emirates ID.
You must bank with the bank and different banks have different rules.
If you are an Emirates NBD customer. You can withdraw cash with your EID if you have the Emirates NBD mobile app on your phone. You’ll use the app to generate a code that you’ll then use at the ATM to withdraw the amount you need.
Mashreq Bank allows customers to open accounts, pay their bills, update their personal information and withdraw and deposit cash by just showing their Emirates ID.
When using a Mashreq ATM, the customer’s existing bank cards will appear on the ATM screen, allowing them to choose from a number of options including cash withdrawal, local and international transfers and chequebook and statement requests.
Emirates IDs can also be used for cash withdrawals and transfers through Al Hilal Banks’ ATMs.
How to use your Emirates ID to pay for fuel at petrol stations
If you want to use your Emirates ID to pay for fuel you need to download an ADNOC Wallet. Once you have the app, your Emirates ID is linked to it and you can add money to your account.
When filling up your petrol tank at ADNOC petrol stations you can insert your EID into the card payment slot and follow the on-screen instructions to pay for your fuel.
You can also use your EID to pay for stuff at ADNOC Oasis convenience stores and car washes if you have an ADNOC Wallet.
How to use your Emirates ID as your health insurance card
Don’t worry if you forget your health insurance card during your next visit to the doctor’s clinic as you can show your Emirates ID. Medical service providers can use EIDs to process medical insurance.
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How to use your Emirates ID at DXB airport’s e-gates
Smart gates are an automated self-service border control system. They use facial recognition technology to identify travellers and can be found at Terminal 3 of DXB airport.
Smart gates match faces to data connected to immigration databases which will know if the traveller is a UAE National, GCC National, UAE resident or a visa-on-arrival guest.
If you want to use your Emirates ID to head through the smart gate then all you need to do is swipe your Emirates ID card and look into the green light at the gate. You must remove glasses and hats before passing through.
How to use your Emirates ID to get discounts
Probably the most fun aspect of holding an Emirates ID is that it can unlock discounts across the UAE.
Several hotels and attractions offer cut-price deals to residents and all you have to do is flash your EID. Want to know how to save by being a UAE resident? Check out Dubai resident deals.
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