Glossary
ICP
ICP is the UAE's federal identity authority. Your Emirates ID and biometrics come from ICP, not from Dubai's own authorities.
ICP is the UAE's federal identity authority (the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security). While DLD and GDRFA Dubai handle the property and residency sides of a Dubai golden-visa application, the Emirates ID and biometrics run through ICP - it is the federal layer of an otherwise Dubai-level process. ICP also applies the federal golden residence rules, such as the provisions under which children of any age can be sponsored, alongside GDRFA. Applicants meet ICP mainly at the biometrics and Emirates ID stage.
Where this comes up
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ICP in Dubai?
ICP is the UAE's federal identity authority. Your Emirates ID and biometrics come from ICP, not from Dubai's own authorities.
Why does ICP matter?
Your Emirates ID - the card you use daily in the UAE - comes from ICP, not from Dubai's authorities.
This entry is part of the Home Guide Dubai glossary - the vocabulary a Dubai buyer or Golden Visa applicant actually meets, defined in plain English and kept consistent with our verified guides.