How to Get Dubai Police Clearance Certificate?

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Have you been asked to submit a police clearance certificate in the UAE and don’t know where to begin? Whether you’re applying for a new job, a visa, or launching a business in Dubai, a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate is a vital document that proves your clean legal record.

As the UAE continues to attract global professionals and investors, ensuring your legal credibility is more important than ever.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn who needs this certificate, how to apply both within and outside the UAE, the required documents, costs involved, and how to avoid common mistakes in the process.

What Is a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate?

A Dubai Police Clearance Certificate, often referred to as a Good Conduct Certificate, is an official document issued by Dubai Police that confirms an individual’s criminal record is clear.

It states that the person has not been involved in any criminal activities during their stay in the UAE. This certificate is crucial when applying for employment, higher education, residency visas, or business licenses both inside the UAE and abroad.

The primary purpose is to demonstrate your legal and moral integrity. Employers, government authorities, educational institutions, and licensing bodies rely on this document as part of their background verification.

It ensures that the applicant poses no threat to national security or legal norms. Whether you’re a citizen, resident, or former UAE resident living abroad, this certificate helps confirm that you’ve upheld lawful conduct during your time in the country.

Who Can Apply for a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate?

Applying for a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate is not limited to residents. It extends to various categories of individuals who have had legal presence in the UAE. Whether you’re currently living in the country or have resided there previously, you are eligible to request this document.

You can apply if you are:

A UAE citizen who needs the certificate for work, study, or immigration.
A UAE resident under a valid visa who requires the certificate for professional or educational reasons.
An ex-resident or foreign national who previously lived in the UAE and needs the certificate from abroad.
A visitor with a legal history in the UAE applying for overseas immigration or study programs.

To be eligible, applicants must have previously entered the UAE and must not have a criminal background or be wanted by any law enforcement authority.

Even individuals with an expired Emirates ID can apply, provided they can verify their identity and past residency in the country. If you’re outside the UAE, the fingerprint card must be officially attested by a UAE embassy in your current country of residence to ensure authenticity.

What Documents Are Required to Apply for the Certificate?

The documentation needed for a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate depends on whether you are applying from inside or outside the UAE. Providing the correct documents is essential to avoid delays or rejection.

If you’re applying from within the UAE:

A valid Emirates ID
A copy of your passport
A recent passport-size photo with a white background
UAE visa copy, if applicable
Application reason and requesting party details

If you’re applying from outside the UAE:

A copy of your passport
A copy of your last UAE visa
Two recent passport-size photos
A fingerprint form, certified by the UAE embassy in your current country
The purpose of the application is clearly mentioned

Applicants should also ensure their documents are recent, legible, and submitted in the correct format. If applying online, documents must be scanned and uploaded in standard image or PDF formats.

Any errors in documentation can lead to unnecessary processing delays or rejection, especially if the fingerprint card is not correctly certified when applying from abroad.

How Can You Apply for a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate Online?

Applying online for a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate is the most convenient option, available 24/7 through official digital platforms. Whether you are a UAE resident or applying from abroad, the process is straightforward if you follow the correct steps.

Here’s how to apply online:

Visit the official portal: Go to the Dubai Police website or download the Dubai Police app. You can also use the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website or app.
Log in or register: Sign in using your UAE Pass. New users must create an account before proceeding.
Select the relevant service: Choose “Police Clearance Certificate” on the Dubai Police platform or “Issuance of Clear Criminal Record Certificate” on the MOI site.
Complete the application form: Enter personal information, including your name, nationality, passport number, Emirates ID, and the reason for your request.
Upload your documents: Attach clear copies of your passport, Emirates ID, visa page, and a recent photo.
Make the payment: Pay the required fee using a credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.
Track and receive your certificate: Submit your application and keep your reference number for tracking. Once approved, download the certificate directly or receive it by email.

By using the online method, you avoid long queues and get faster processing.

What Is the Cost and Processing Time for a Police Clearance Certificate?

The cost of a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate varies depending on your nationality, location, and method of application. Citizens pay less than residents or applicants from outside the UAE. Additional fees apply for in-person service centre applications.

Processing is generally fast, with certificates issued within 24 to 48 hours if all documents are accurate. Delays may occur during public holidays, peak seasons, or due to incomplete applications. Applying online is usually quicker and more convenient.

Fee and Processing Table:

Applicant Type / Channel	Fee (AED)	Notes
UAE Citizen	100	Standard rate for local nationals
UAE Resident	200	For valid UAE visa holders
Outside UAE	300 / $88	For ex-residents or international use
Knowledge and Innovation Fee	20	Mandatory for all applications
Additional Service Centre Fee (In-person)	100	Applies to physical submissions only
MOI Federal Fee (if applicable)	50	May vary by emirate
Processing Time	24–48 hours	Based on a correct and complete submission

To avoid delays and extra costs, always ensure your documents are accurate and select the application channel that best suits your location and timeline.

Can You Apply for a Police Clearance Certificate Outside the UAE?

Yes, you can apply for a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate from outside the UAE, especially if you previously lived in the Emirates. The process differs slightly from local applications, mainly due to identity verification and document authentication.

To apply, you’ll need to obtain a ten-print fingerprint card from the police department in your current country. This card must be attested by the UAE Embassy to validate its authenticity. Along with the fingerprint card, you must provide a copy of your passport, a recent photo, and a copy of your last UAE visa.

Once you’ve gathered these documents, visit the Dubai Police website or MOI portal and follow the standard application process. Ensure you choose the correct user type (outside UAE) while filling out the form. After submission, you can pay online and receive the digital certificate by email, provided all details are correct.

What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Application Process?

Applying for a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate may seem simple, but even small mistakes can delay or reject your application. Being informed about common errors can help you complete the process smoothly and on time.

Key Mistakes to Avoid:

Submitting expired documents: Many applicants upload outdated Emirates IDs or passport copies, which are not accepted.
Incomplete application forms: Omitting fields like the reason for the certificate or forgetting to mention the requesting party can lead to rejection.
Incorrect user category selection: Choosing “resident” instead of “outside UAE” when you’re applying from abroad can result in your application being voided.
Uploading unclear images or documents: Blurry or improperly scanned files may not be processed by the system.
Skipping fingerprint attestation: If you’re applying from outside the UAE, not getting the fingerprint card attested by the UAE Embassy is a frequent error.

Before you hit submit, cross-check every detail, ensure your documents are valid and clear, and choose the right platform based on your location. If you’re unsure, visit a Dubai Police service centre or call 901 for clarification.

What Happens After You Submit the Application?

Once your application for a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate is submitted, the verification and issuance process begins. Dubai Police and MOI services are highly efficient, and most applications are processed within one to two business days.

Here’s what typically happens next:

You receive a reference number: This is sent to your registered mobile number and email. Use it to track the status of your application online.
Your details are verified: The authorities cross-check the provided documents and ensure the accuracy of the application. If any inconsistencies arise, they may reach out for corrections.
You are notified upon approval: Once approved, you will receive a notification via SMS or email confirming the issuance.
You can download or receive your certificate: Log into the same portal to access and download the certificate. If you opted for a physical copy, it will be mailed or available at a designated service center.

Keep in mind that the certificate is valid for only three months from the date of issuance. If you don’t use it within this period, you’ll need to reapply. Also, no refunds are issued for rejected applications.

Is the Certificate Accepted Internationally for Immigration or Employment?

Yes, the Dubai Police Clearance Certificate is accepted internationally, especially for immigration, employment, and education purposes. Most countries request a certificate of good conduct as part of their background verification process when evaluating foreign nationals.

If you plan to use the certificate outside the UAE, you’ll likely need to legalize and attest it. This is typically done through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in the UAE. You may also need a certified translation, depending on the country’s requirements.

Countries in Europe, North America, Australia, and parts of Asia frequently request the UAE certificate during visa or work permit applications. Ensure the issuing authority name is clearly visible on the document, and all personal details are accurate. Always confirm with the requesting organization or embassy whether additional verification steps are needed before submission.

How to Contact the Dubai Police or Get Support?

If you face any challenges during your Dubai Police Clearance Certificate application process, several customer support channels are available to assist you. Dubai Police ensures 24/7 support through their smart digital platforms and physical service centres.

Contact & Support Table:

Service Channel	Availability	Details
Call Center	24/7	Dial 901
Email Support	Within 24 hours	mail@dubaipolice.gov.ae
Dubai Police App/Website	24/7	Live chat, service request
Smart Police Stations	24/7	Multiple locations across Dubai
Physical Police Stations	7:30 AM – 10:00 PM	Al Qusais, Al Rashidiya, Jebel Ali etc.

For the smoothest experience, always use official channels and keep your application reference number handy when seeking assistance or updates.

Conclusion

Obtaining a Dubai Police Clearance Certificate is a fundamental step in many official processes such as visa applications, job placements, and international travel.

It is a declaration of your lawful conduct and criminal-free history during your stay in the UAE. Whether you are a citizen, current resident, or ex-resident, securing this certificate is easier than ever through digital channels like the Dubai Police and MOI portals.

It ensures your smooth transition into professional, academic, or personal pursuits across borders. By following the correct steps and submitting valid documents, you can avoid unnecessary delays.

Always check the validity of your certificate and get it attested if required for international use. In a world where security and integrity matter more than ever, your Police Clearance Certificate proves that you’re a trusted and responsible individual.