MoHRE, GDRFA & ICP Platforms
Overview
The UAE has digitalized most government services. PROs must be proficient with these platforms to process transactions efficiently.
MoHRE Platform
Purpose: Labor and employment services.
Services Available: Work permit applications, employment contract registration, labor quota management, WPS monitoring, labor dispute filing, company registration, establishment card management, labor inspection scheduling.
Access: Online via MoHRE website, MoHRE mobile app, MoHRE service centers, AMER typing centers (Dubai).
Authentication: UAE PASS for company login, establishment number + password.
Key Features: Online work permit applications, digital contract signing, real-time WPS monitoring, labor quota tracking, employee database, violation tracking, inspection reports.
GDRFA Platform (Dubai)
Purpose: Visa and immigration services in Dubai.
Services Available: Entry permit applications, residency visa stamping, visa renewal, visa cancellation, status change, visit visa applications, visa extension, establishment card (immigration), sponsor registration.
Access: Online via GDRFA website, GDRFA mobile app, AMER service centers, DubaiNow app.
Authentication: UAE PASS, sponsor ID + password.
Key Features: Online visa applications, visa status tracking, e-visa issuance, digital visa stamping, appointment booking, fee payment online.
ICP Platform (Federal)
Purpose: Federal immigration and identity services.
Services Available: Emirates ID applications, entry permits (federal), residency visas (federal), visa cancellation (federal), border control services, customs services.
Access: Online via u.ae portal, ICP website, ICP service centers, ICP-approved typing centers.
Authentication: UAE PASS.
Key Features: Emirates ID application and tracking, federal visa services, entry permit applications, digital identity services.
Key Differences: GDRFA vs ICP
GDRFA: Dubai-specific immigration services. Handles visa processing for Dubai-based companies and residents. Separate from federal ICP.
ICP: Federal-level immigration and identity. Handles Emirates ID nationwide. Handles visa processing for companies outside Dubai (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.).
Important: Dubai companies use GDRFA for visas and ICP for Emirates ID. Mainland companies outside Dubai use ICP for both. Free zone companies may use their own authority or GDRFA/ICP.
Using the Platforms
Step 1: Login. Use UAE PASS or establishment credentials. Ensure you have the correct access level.
Step 2: Select Service. Choose the required service from the dashboard. Read the requirements carefully.
Step 3: Submit Application. Upload required documents. Fill in application form. Pay fees online.
Step 4: Track Application. Use reference number to track status. Receive SMS/email notifications.
Step 5: Receive Outcome. Download certificates/approvals. Collect physical documents if needed.
Platform Tips for PROs
Register and verify company accounts on all platforms. Keep digital copies of all documents. Use UAE PASS for authentication. Track all application reference numbers. Save screenshots of confirmations. Pay fees online to save time. Use express services when available. Check status regularly. Contact support for issues. Keep updated on platform changes.
Common Platform Issues
Login Problems: Reset password, check UAE PASS status, contact support.
Upload Failures: Check file format (PDF/JPG), check file size, try different browser.
Payment Issues: Check card details, try different payment method, contact bank.
Application Rejected: Read rejection reason, correct issues, resubmit.
System Maintenance: Check for scheduled maintenance, try again later, use service centers if urgent.