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Can I keep my daughter's physical Emirates ID if the custodian already has the digital copy?

Hello,

Can I keep my daughter's physical Emirates ID with me? I already provided the digital copy to the custodian, my ex-wife.

Or should I hand it over to her?

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Dar Al Haqooq Legal Consultancy
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24 Apr 2025, 11:20

Dear Client,

According to UAE law, the primary custodian, typically the mother, is generally responsible for holding the child’s essential documents, including the physical Emirates ID, to facilitate day-to-day matters such as healthcare, education, and travel.

While providing a digital copy is helpful, it may not be sufficient for all official purposes.

Unless there is a specific court order stating otherwise, it is advisable to hand over the physical Emirates ID to the custodian to ensure compliance with legal requirements and to avoid any potential misunderstandings or disputes.

If you have any concerns about the use or safekeeping of the Emirates ID, you may wish to discuss them directly with the custodian or seek clarification from the court.

Please let me know if you need further assistance or legal guidance on this matter.

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Hend Humaid Alnuaimi Advocates & Legal Consultants
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24 Apr 2025, 11:27

You may keep your daughter's physical Emirates ID with you since you've provided a digital copy to her custodian (ex-wife), but it's advisable to communicate openly about this arrangement and ensure it aligns with any legal custody agreements in place.

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London Center for Legal Consultancy Office
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24 Apr 2025, 11:27

According to UAE law, the Emirates ID should generally be held by the legal custodian of the child. If your ex-wife is the court-appointed custodian, she has the right to keep the physical ID.

Our legal center specializes in such cases and can offer you personalized guidance. Please feel free to contact us on WhatsApp for further legal support and inquiries.

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Future Vision Advocates Legal Consultancy
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24 Apr 2025, 11:28

Greetings,

In general, the physical Emirates ID of a minor child should be held by the primary custodian (your ex-wife), especially if she is responsible for the child’s daily care and official matters.

However, exceptions may apply depending on custody arrangements or court orders. To protect your rights and avoid any legal misunderstandings, we recommend a legal consultation to assess your specific case.

Book a consultation or contact us to represent you in this matter.

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Al Fahad Legal Consulting
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24 Apr 2025, 11:33

Dear Questioner,

Thank you for your inquiry!

Under UAE law, the Emirates ID is considered an official identification document and typically follows the custodial parent (in this case, your ex-wife), who is responsible for the day-to-day care and legal representation of the child.

While it is not illegal for you to hold the physical Emirates ID, it is generally advisable to hand it over to the custodial parent, especially if they require it for healthcare, school registration, or government-related matters.

Since you have already provided the digital copy, this may suffice temporarily, but it’s best to avoid any conflict by returning the original unless otherwise agreed in writing or ordered by the court.

If there are concerns regarding your rights or access to your daughter’s records, we can help you formalize visitation or parental rights through a legal agreement or court modification.

Please let us know if you’d like to book a consultation to discuss your case further.

Best regards,

Mohammed Salah

Legal Consultant

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Rashid Khalil Obaid Advocates and Legal Consultancy
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24 Apr 2025, 11:36

Dear Inquirer,

Of course, you can keep the digital Emirates ID with you, as there is no legal objection to that. However, it is recommended to hand over the physical ID to your ex-wife since she is the custodian.

Do not hesitate to ask about anything else. I’m here to help you.

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Mohamed Bakheet Advocates & Legal Consultants
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24 Apr 2025, 11:44

Under UAE law, if your daughter is a minor and has custody, her mother has the right to receive her daughter's Emirates ID card. If you have custody, you may have the right to keep the card.

However, if your ex-wife has custody of the child, she is expected to receive the card. This should be done in accordance with the law and court agreements regarding the child's custody.

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Rashid Khalil Obaid Advocates and Legal Consultancy
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24 Apr 2025, 12:59

Dear questioner,

There doesn't appear to be a specific law that explicitly states the non-custodial parent cannot hold the child's Emirates ID, especially if you have provided a digital copy to the custodian.

If you need further clarification, kindly share your WhatsApp number.

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