Paying for UAE visa, residency and identity services has become more flexible, with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) introducing a new instalment payment option through Tabby.

The new feature allows customers to split the cost of eligible ICP services into monthly instalments, making it easier to manage payments for applications such as visas, Emirates ID and other government services.

What’s new?

Alongside its existing Easy Payment service, which is offered in partnership with 10 national banks, ICP has added Tabby as a payment option on its electronic payment platform.

Eligible customers can pay service fees in instalments over three, six or 12 months for transactions worth up to Dh20,000, subject to Tabby’s credit assessment.

How it works

When completing an application through ICP’s digital platform, customers simply need to:

• Proceed to the payment page.
• Select their preferred payment option, Tabby or Easy Payment.
• Complete the payment process based on the available instalment plan.

Approval for instalment payments depends on the customer’s credit eligibility.

Improving customer experience

ICP said the initiative is part of its ongoing efforts to improve customer experience by offering more convenient and flexible financial solutions.

By expanding payment options, the authority aims to make government services more accessible while giving citizens and residents greater flexibility in managing service-related expenses.

Starting and growing a business in Dubai is set to become easier with the launch of Business in Dubai, a new digital platform by Dubai Chambers that brings together essential corporate services in one place.

Designed as a single gateway for companies, the platform connects businesses with trusted service providers, helping them access everything from financial solutions to technology, marketing and certification services without having to navigate multiple channels.

The initiative aims to simplify business operations while strengthening Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most competitive destinations for investment and entrepreneurship.

What does the platform offer?

The Business in Dubai platform currently provides 65 corporate services through seven accredited partners, offering companies a wide range of support as they establish or expand their operations in the emirate.

The services are grouped into four key categories:

• Financial services
• Marketing and business growth services
• Technology services
• Testing, inspection and certification services

The current network of partners includes ZENDATA Cybersecurity, FAST Ventures, Mamo, OCTA, SGS Gulf Limited, Vault, and Pemo.

Helping businesses grow

Dubai Chambers said the platform has been designed to save companies time and resources by bringing multiple business services under one digital roof.

Khalid AlJarwan, Executive Vice President of Commercial and Corporate Services at Dubai Chambers, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to creating an environment that supports business growth both locally and internationally.

He said the platform will strengthen Dubai’s investment ecosystem by making it easier for companies to access the services they need to scale their operations and contribute to the emirate’s long-term economic development.

Boost for the digital economy

Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, said the platform will particularly benefit businesses operating in the digital economy by simplifying access to trusted service providers.

He added that the initiative creates a more flexible and efficient business environment, enabling entrepreneurs and companies across different sectors to focus on growth rather than administrative processes.

A single digital gateway

By consolidating key business services onto one platform, Dubai Chambers aims to reduce the time and effort companies spend searching for service providers, allowing them to concentrate on innovation, expansion and day-to-day operations.

The launch forms part of Dubai’s wider efforts to strengthen its business ecosystem and reinforce its position as a leading global hub for trade, investment and entrepreneurship.

Dubai Police has issued a fresh warning about online scams involving fake Consumer Protection websites designed to steal personal and banking information from unsuspecting victims.

According to the force’s Anti-Fraud Centre, scammers are creating websites that closely resemble official consumer protection platforms before tricking users into sharing sensitive information.

Here’s how the scam works and how you can protect yourself.

How does the scam work?

The fraud typically follows these steps:

Step 1: Victims visit a fake website

People searching online for Consumer Protection services may accidentally land on a fraudulent website that looks genuine.

The fake site asks users to enter:

• Name
• Email address
• Phone number
• Complaint details

Step 2: Scammers call pretending to help

Soon after submitting the information, victims receive a phone call from someone claiming to represent Consumer Protection.

Because the fraudsters already know the complaint details, the call appears convincing and trustworthy.

Step 3: Victims are asked to install remote access software

The caller then instructs the victim to download remote access software onto their phone or computer.

This software allows scammers to remotely view and control the victim’s device.

Step 4: Banking information is stolen

Victims are asked to log into their online banking account while the remote access software is active.

Fraudsters can then:

• View banking credentials.
• Capture passwords and security codes.
• Transfer money.
• Make unauthorised purchases.
• Access other personal information stored on the device.

How can you protect yourself?

Dubai Police advises residents to:

• Use only official Consumer Protection websites and government channels.
• Never click on suspicious links.
• Avoid downloading software requested by unknown callers.
• Never share online banking credentials with anyone.
• Verify the authenticity of websites before entering personal information.

What should you do if you receive a suspicious call?

If someone claiming to represent Consumer Protection asks you to:

• Download an app.
• Install remote access software.
• Log into your bank account.
• Share banking details.

End the call immediately.

Legitimate government authorities will never ask you to install software that gives them access to your device.

How do you report a scam?

Residents who encounter similar fraud attempts are encouraged to report them through:

• Dubai Police’s e-Crime platform.
• Dubai Police’s non-emergency number 901.

Reporting scams helps authorities investigate cybercriminals and prevent others from becoming victims.