ABU DHABI // Holders of the Emirates ID card can now apply online for a certificate of criminal record.Police say this will make it easier for them to share information, and for residents to obtain the forms they need for employment.
Abu Dhabi Police said yesterday that anyone from Abu Dhabi, Al Ain or Al Gharbia holding an ID card could pick up their certificate at the nearest police station after applying online.
Capt Sultan al Tunaiji, head of the fingerprint section at Abu Dhabi Police, said residents of all nationalities could use the service if they provide all necessary data and documents: passport, ID card and a personal photo for expatriates. Emiratis need the ID card alone.
"This step is part of [the Ministry of Interior's] efforts to link the unified criminal system to all police agencies in order to speed up procedures," Capt al Tunaiji said.
The papers can be obtained in Arabic or English. The process normally takes two days, but can be completed the same day for extra fees.
Expatriates who have lived in the country previously but are no longer here can also use the service. They should visit the UAE Embassy in their home country to present their documents.
Eleven centres in Abu Dhabi issue the certificate, along with three in Al Gharbia and one in Al Ain.
