UAE authorities have urged residents to stay vigilant against fake websites and social media accounts claiming to offer fast-tracked government services, warning that such platforms are fraudulent and potentially dangerous.
Dubai: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has issued a strong public advisory warning UAE residents against using unauthorized online platforms that falsely promise expedited government services. This comes amid rising complaints about fraudulent websites and social media accounts offering “fast-track” visa, Emirates ID, and residency services in exchange for hefty payments.
According to officials, these fake platforms are neither recognized by the ICP nor affiliated with any official government channels. Many of them mimic the design of legitimate portals, luring unsuspecting residents into sharing personal documents and making payments for services that never materialize.
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The ICP’s alert follows a growing trend in which scammers create websites and social media pages that claim to speed up processes such as residency permit renewals, visa stamping, and Emirates ID applications. These accounts often advertise shortcuts that bypass regular waiting periods—something no private agency has the authority to promise.
“Residents must be cautious and ensure they are only using ICP’s official website or authorized typing centres for all their applications,” an official from the Authority said. “The UAE government does not authorize third parties to offer any fast-tracked process in exchange for money.”
Residents using these fake platforms not only risk financial loss but also face legal consequences if their information is used in fraudulent or criminal activities. Personal data shared on unauthorized sites can be misused for identity theft, scams, or even international criminal operations.
The ICP urged residents to stay vigilant, especially when interacting with platforms that claim to offer services such as:
Instant visa renewals
Immediate Emirates ID replacements
Same-day visa transfers or cancellations
“Special agent” services for expats
In many reported cases, users who paid money for such services either received nothing in return or were handed falsified documents that led to further legal complications.
Despite the popularity of these claims, the ICP reiterated that there is no valid way to bypass government protocols. All residency, visa, and ID applications must follow a strict, standardized process handled either through:
The official ICP website (icp.gov.ae)
ICP-approved mobile apps
Registered and certified typing centres
Any offer outside these channels, regardless of how convincing or professional the website looks, is considered illegal.
To help the public stay safe, the ICP provided a few telltale signs of suspicious platforms:
URLs that do not end in .gov.ae
Requests for payments via personal bank accounts or cryptocurrency
Promises of “VIP access” or “special connections” within immigration
Poor grammar or vague language in communications
Social media pages with limited contact info or unverifiable claims
Residents are also advised to avoid clicking on sponsored ads or links received via WhatsApp or Telegram from unknown sources.
The Authority encouraged the public to immediately report any suspicious online services to relevant UAE authorities. Complaints can be filed through official channels including:
UAE Cyber Crime Unit
The ICP contact centre
Local police departments
By acting quickly, residents not only protect themselves but help prevent others from falling victim to similar scams.
This warning is part of a broader national campaign to educate UAE residents about safe digital practices and the dangers of fraudulent services. Over the past year, authorities have cracked down on several illegal typing centres and online platforms offering unauthorized immigration assistance.
UAE residents have increasingly turned to online options for government-related tasks, especially post-COVID. While digital services have simplified many procedures, the ICP emphasized the need for careful verification to avoid falling prey to scams in the name of convenience.
The message from the ICP is clear—there are no legal shortcuts when it comes to immigration and identity services in the UAE. Residents are advised to take time to verify websites, rely on official sources, and never share sensitive personal or financial information with unverified platforms.
The public is reminded that using illegal services can result in:
Financial loss
Criminal charges
Delays in visa and residency approvals
Exposure to identity theft
As the UAE continues to tighten cybersecurity and digital governance measures, authorities remain committed to protecting the public from fraudulent schemes and maintaining trust in government service processes.
