An updated list of regulations to be followed when taking photos for identification purposes has been released.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has published a list of specifications the photo must meet in order to be accepted by smart readers, in line with the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
Image: The image itself must be a high quality one. It must be coloured and cannot be older than six months.
The dimensions of the photo must be 35mm X 40mm.
Background: The background of the image must be white
Features: Neutral, natural expressions must be maintained; they must not be exaggerated
Head position: The head must be straight, not tilted, and must be parallel to the photographic lens
Eyes: Open towards the camera and without coloured lenses
Glasses: Acceptable as long as the do not obscure the eyes and do not reflect light
Dress code: The official dress of the UAE (for citizens)
Head covering: Allowed according to national dress or religious belief
Resolution (pixels): At least 600 dpi without ink traces or shrinkage
The authority added that images that are edited using digital software will not be accepted