A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) in Dubai confirms an individual’s clear criminal record for employment, immigration, or study purposes. For UAE residents, it costs AED 220 (including innovation fees) and takes 24 hours. Former residents can apply from outside the UAE online after obtaining an attested fingerprint card.
Do this next:
- Check Emirates ID: Ensure your ID and visa details are active in the federal system.
- Download App: Install the Dubai Police or DubaiNow app for the fastest processing.
- Prepare Payment: Have a debit/credit card ready for the AED 220–320 fee.
Fees & timeline (typical): UAE residents often pay about AED 220 total (service + knowledge/innovation fees) with online processing commonly around 24 hours. Applications from outside the UAE are typically higher (around AED 320) and may take 3–5 working days. Always confirm the live amount in the Dubai Police / DubaiNow checkout before paying.
Who Needs a Good Conduct Certificate?
The PCC, often called a “Good Conduct Certificate,” is legally required for several transitions.
Employment & Visas
Employers in government, aviation, and financial sectors often mandate a PCC to verify trustworthiness. It is also a standard requirement when applying for work visas in other GCC countries or immigrating to Europe or North America.
Professional Licensing
Regulatory bodies, such as the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), require this document before issuing licenses to doctors, teachers, and security professionals.
Business Setup
Entrepreneurs starting a company in Dubai Mainland or specific Free Zones may need to submit a PCC to prove their financial and legal integrity during the registration process.
Documents Required for PCC Dubai
Requirements differ slightly based on your current residency status.
| Applicant Status | Required Documents |
| Current Resident | • Valid Emirates ID • Active Email Address • Mobile Number (linked to ID) |
| Former Resident (Outside UAE) | • Fingerprint Card (attested by UAE Embassy) • Passport Copy (Valid) • Copy of Last UAE Visa • Recent Passport Photo (White background) |
| Visitor | • Passport Copy • Fingerprint Card (if applicable) |
How to Get Police Clearance Certificate in Dubai?
You can apply through digital channels 24/7 without visiting a police station.
Method 1: Dubai Police App (For Residents)
This is the fastest method for current residents with an active Emirates ID.
Step 1: Download the “Dubai Police App” or visit the [Dubai Police website].
Step 2: Select “Services” and click on “Police Clearance Certificate.”
Step 3: Log in using UAE Pass to automatically populate your details.
Step 4: Select the purpose of the certificate (e.g., “Employment” or “Foreign Visa”).
Step 5: Pay the required fee (approx. AED 220) using a debit or credit card.
Step 6: Receive the certificate via email and SMS within 24 hours.
Method 2: From Outside UAE (For Ex-Residents)
If you no longer live in the UAE, you cannot use UAE Pass easily. Follow this manual process.
Step 1: Go to your local police station in your current country and request a fingerprint card on an official form.
Step 2: Attest this fingerprint card at the UAE Embassy in your current country.
Step 3: Visit the Dubai Police website and choose the “Access Service” option for the PCC.
Step 4: Upload the attested fingerprint card, your passport copy, and your old UAE visa copy.
Step 5: Pay the international application fee (approx. AED 320).
Step 6: Receive the digital certificate via email.
Method 3: Smart Police Stations (SPS)
For those who prefer a physical kiosk but want to avoid queues, use a Smart Police Station (SPS). These are located in malls like City Walk and La Mer.
Step 1: Visit an SPS kiosk (open 24/7).
Step 2: Insert your Emirates ID into the reader.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen prompts to request a “Good Conduct Certificate.”
Step 4: Pay via card and receive the digital copy instantly or via email.
Fees and Processing Time (2026)
Fees are subject to change; the table below reflects the latest standard charges including knowledge and innovation fees.
| Category | Service Fee | Total Estimated Cost* | Processing Time |
| UAE National | AED 100 | AED 120 | 24 Hours |
| UAE Resident | AED 200 | AED 220 | 24 Hours |
| Outside UAE | AED 300 ($88) | AED 320 | 3–5 Working Days |
| In-Person | + AED 100 | Varies | Instant/Same Day |
> Total cost includes approx. AED 20 for Knowledge & Innovation fees.
Validity and Attestation
A Police Clearance Certificate issued in Dubai is typically valid for 3 months (90 days) from the issue date.
If you are using the certificate within the UAE (e.g., for a new job), the digital copy is usually sufficient. However, if you are using it for a foreign visa (e.g., migration to Canada or UK), you must get it attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in the UAE and subsequently by the embassy of the destination country.
Pro Tip: “If you are applying from outside the UAE, the most common reason for rejection is a poor-quality fingerprint scan. Ensure your local police station uses clear black ink and stamps the card officially before you take it to the UAE Embassy for attestation.”
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a Police Clearance Certificate in Dubai is a streamlined, digital-first process. For most residents, the document is delivered to their inbox in minutes via the Dubai Police App. If you are applying from abroad, ensure your fingerprint documents are perfectly attested to avoid delays. Always check the specific validity requirements of the entity requesting the certificate, as some may require a PCC issued within the last 30 days rather than the standard 90.
FAQ on Dubai Police Clearance
How much does a police clearance certificate cost in Dubai?
For residents, the standard fee is AED 200 plus AED 20 in knowledge fees, totaling AED 220. For applicants outside the UAE, the fee is AED 300 (approx. $88) plus AED 20 fees.
How can I get police clearance in Dubai without Emirates ID?
If you do not have an Emirates ID (e.g., you are a former resident), you must provide a fingerprint card from your local police authority, attested by the UAE Embassy in your country, along with your passport and old visa copy.
How long does it take to get a PCC in Dubai?
For requests submitted online via the Dubai Police app or website with a valid Emirates ID, the certificate is usually issued within 24 hours. International requests may take 3 to 5 working days due to document verification.
Where can I go for fingerprinting in Dubai?
If fingerprints are required (usually for visitors or ID issues), you can visit the General Department of Criminal Investigation or specific police stations like Al Qusais or Ports Police Station during working hours (7:30 AM – 2:30 PM).
Is the Dubai PCC valid for other Emirates?
Yes, a PCC issued by Dubai Police is a federal document recognized across the UAE. However, for federal purposes, some entities might prefer a certificate issued via the Ministry of Interior (MOI) app, which covers all emirates.
Last updated: October 2026
Reviewed by: Sarah Jenkins (HR & Immigration Specialist)
Last reviewed: August 2026. DubaiHowTo verifies steps against official UAE sources (government portals and service providers) and practical on-ground usage. Always confirm fees and eligibility on the official site before you act — rules change.
Sources: Cross-check with the relevant official portal for this topic (e.g. ICP, GDRFA, MOHRE, RTA, e&/Etisalat, du, FAB, Edenred/C3Pay).
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Author: The DubaiHowto Editorial Team
DubaiHowto is an independent informational platform created to help UAE residents and visitors understand everyday services such as public transport, telecom, government procedures, visas, fines, and utility systems.
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Last reviewed: February 2026. Sources: Official UAE portals and service providers