DIGITAL EMIRATES ID MAKES LIFE EASIER. The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship has launched the first phase of issuing the new version of the Emirates Identity Card (ID) as part of the transition to the upgraded generation of identity cards and passports. The electronic version of the ID is an exact copy of the printed card and is available via the authority's smart application "ICA UAE Smart". Residents are encouraged to use the electronic version of the ID in all services of various sectors until the issuance of the printed cards. Residents should take full benefit of the electronic version of the ID cards, as its use is much easier especially for online transactions. (COMMENT BY: Ashfaq Ahmed, Senior Assistant Editor)