Best time to get a national ID card

The decision to make the national ID card mandatory to access traffic and licensing services across the country has come as a gentle nudge for those who do not have one. Although different emirates are implementing the decision in a phased manner, the fact that it will indeed come into force is a wake-up call for those who have put off getting one.

With the process of getting an ID card having been made simpler, this is the right time to apply for one. Applying now will save one the hassle of standing in long queues as the deadline gets closer or even being slapped with a fine.

The decision also shows the government's resolve to integrate the card with the functioning of various departments. Once more and more agencies enforce the rule, we can look forward to a single ID card being used for multiple purposes.