UAE Photo Size: Passport, Emirates ID and Visa Explained

Searching for the UAE passport photo size gives different answers, and that is not your imagination. Guides list several sizes because a passport, an Emirates ID and a visa do not always use the same photo. This page explains the difference and how to avoid a wrong print.

Why UAE photo sizes look confusing

Different services publish different numbers. Many guides list the passport photo as 40 x 60 mm. Emirates ID guides often mention about 35 x 40 mm or 35 x 45 mm. Many visa agents ask for 43 x 55 mm, but that figure is often a custom rather than a published government rule. Because sources disagree, we do not give one number as final.

The background is the same everywhere: plain white, with no shadows or patterns.

Sizes at a glance (commonly published)

• Passport: 40 x 60 mm, about 472 x 709 pixels at 300 DPI.
• Visa (common agent size): 43 x 55 mm, about 508 x 650 pixels at 300 DPI.
• Emirates ID: about 35 x 40 or 35 x 45 mm, so check the current rule before you print.

Always confirm with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), the visa service you are using, or the typing centre handling your application. The size on the form or checklist in front of you is the one that counts.

Which Uphoto setting to use

Uphoto's United Arab Emirates setting makes a 43 x 55 mm white-background photo, the size most visa agents ask for. If your document needs a 40 x 60 mm passport-style photo, choose Oman or Saudi Arabia in the country list, because both use 40 x 60 mm with a white background. For any other size, ask the office before you print.

Head position and expression

Look straight at the camera with a neutral expression, mouth closed and both eyes open. Keep your head level and the whole face visible. Read our guide to glasses and head coverings for what is usually allowed.

How to take the photo at home

Stand about 60 cm from a plain light wall and face a window in daylight. Ask a helper to hold the phone at eye level from about 1.2 to 1.5 metres away, or use the timer. Take at least ten shots and pick the sharpest. See how to take a passport photo at home. Avoid filters and chat-app copies.

Make your photo free

Open the Uphoto home page, choose the country setting that matches the size you need, upload your photo and download a JPG or PDF. For upload limits see our upload guide, and for the difference between passport and visa photos see passport photo vs visa photo.

Quick answers

What is the UAE passport photo size? Guides commonly list 40 x 60 mm, but confirm with ICP or your service.

Is 43 x 55 mm an official size? It is widely used for visas, but check the checklist for your application.

Which background? Plain white.

Is Uphoto free? Yes, with no sign-up and your photo stays on your device. More answers are in our FAQ.