For Indians living in the UAE, an Aadhaar card is often seen as an essential document for identification and financial purposes. However, there is still confusion among Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) about whether they can apply for Aadhaar from abroad. In 2025, the process is clear: Aadhaar enrollment must be done in India, but NRIs can book appointments and prepare documents while in the UAE. Nera News provides a step-by-step guide for UAE residents seeking an Aadhaar card.

Can NRIs in UAE Apply for Aadhaar?

Yes, but with a condition. Aadhaar enrollment requires biometric verification (fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph), which can only be completed at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra in India. This means NRIs cannot get Aadhaar fully online from the UAE.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Adhar Card from UAE

Step 1: Book an Appointment Online

Visit the official UIDAI website: https://uidai.gov.in
Choose “Book Appointment” at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra in your preferred city in India.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

NRIs must prepare the following documents before traveling:

Passport (mandatory for NRIs)
Valid UAE residence visa copy
Indian address proof (if available: voter ID, utility bill, or relative’s proof)
Birth certificate or school certificate (if applying for minors)

Step 3: Travel to India

Since biometric verification is required, the applicant must be physically present in India.

Step 4: Visit Aadhaar Enrollment Center

Attend the Aadhaar Seva Kendra on the booked date.
Submit documents, provide fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph.
Ensure all details (name, date of birth, address) match your passport.

Step 5: Collect Enrollment Slip

After enrollment, you will receive an acknowledgment slip with a 14-digit enrollment number. This can be used to track the status online.

Step 6: Aadhaar Generation

UIDAI verifies the data and issues the Aadhaar card. Processing usually takes 2–3 weeks.

Step 7: Download or Receive Aadhaar

Aadhaar can be downloaded digitally from the UIDAI website using the enrollment number.
Physical card will be delivered to the Indian address provided during registration.

Timeline for UAE Residents

Appointment booking: Immediate
Enrollment in India: 1 day
Processing and issue: 2–3 weeks
Delivery to Indian address: 3–4 weeks

Key Points for NRIs in UAE

Aadhaar enrollment cannot be done outside India.
Passport is the primary identity document for NRIs.
Aadhaar is not mandatory for NRIs unless they spend more than 182 days in India within a year.
NRIs can still carry out most financial and official activities in India using their passport and PAN card.

For NRIs living in the UAE, applying for an Aadhaar card requires traveling to India because of biometric verification rules. While online booking and document preparation can be done from abroad, the final enrollment is only possible at Aadhaar Seva Kendras in India. In 2025, Aadhaar remains a vital document, but NRIs should assess whether they need it, as PAN card and passport continue to serve as valid identification for most services.