New National ID Law guarantees privacy

It aims at enhancing the personal security of all individuals living in the country. It also provides a data base and essential statistical information for decision makers, which are expected to assist in improving the process of economic and investment planning in the country.

"The Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA) is implementing one of the most advanced ID Card systems in the world. The Authority is building a data base that utilizes the most recent technologies used in identifying individuals and information security" said Dr. Saeed Al Dhaheri, Director General of EIDA.

"EIDA has undertaken this immense task of designing and implementing the National ID Card program. The new ID card includes the most comprehensive and secure personal identification features provided in the field," he added.

Al Dhaheri said that a phased introduction schedule has been developed in order to implement the new program. Moreover, he noted that this program is similar to any new program being introduced for the first time in that difficulties may be encountered during the implementation phase. He stressed that EIDA has been charged with the responsibility of ensuring all obstacles to the smooth introduction and operation of the project will be overcome.

He also explained that EIDA is now preparing the project's infrastructure by drafting the rules and regulations that will determine procedures for registration and issuance of the ID card. These rules and regulations are scheduled to be proclaimed by the legislative authorities by end of this month.

It is worth mentioning that the new law is similar to other laws in the UAE, which assure citizens are entitled to privacy and the confidentiality of any information or data that they provide to the government for documents such as passports, driving licenses and labor cards. Each of the laws pertaining to these documents also contain provisions for penalties should the law not be complied with or violated.

The new Population Register and National ID Card laws are similar to laws implemented internationally. These laws also include penalties for abuse of the confidential information provided in these cards. These provisions enhance the overall element of security provided by the program.

Al Dhaheri noted that EIDA intends to launch a public education program that will raise awareness of the benefits and importance of the Population Register and National ID Card program in the community before the program is launched.

The Population Register and ID Card program is considered to be one of the leading programs in the Middle East. It will keep an individual's identity secure from fraud through guaranteeing the confidentiality of the data provided by the cardholder, as well as providing a secure means of confirming the cardholder's identity. Accordingly, the new ID Card will not only protect an individual's ID, but also their privacy as well.

The new ID Card will facilitate interaction with government services. It will make accessing services faster and will also improve the productivity and efficiency of government employees.

The Population Register and National ID Card project will further enhance government programs in e-commerce through bridging the 'digital gap' in society through the use of the latest technologies in the field.