Do I apply for the Golden Visa through GDRFA or ICP?

Which channel you use depends on the emirate where you are applying. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) provides Golden Visa and residency services for the UAE federally and is the route for most emirates through its smart services portal and app. Dubai operates its own residency directorate, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai), so applications tied to Dubai are commonly handled there. In practice, if you live, work, own property or invest in Dubai, you typically apply via GDRFA; for other emirates you use ICP. Both lead to the same outcome — a long-term residence — and both require the same broad steps of submitting documents, paying official fees, and completing medical fitness and Emirates ID. Some services are accessible through either platform, and accredited typing centres or authorised channels can assist. Because the division of services can be updated, confirm the right entity for your emirate on u.ae before starting. If you are unsure which channel fits your case, a verified UAE legal professional on LEXAI can point you to the correct route.