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How to Get a CICPA Pass in Abu Dhabi?

How to Get a CICPA Pass in Abu Dhabi? The CICPA Pass is a mandatory security permit for companies and their employees to work in restricted areas of Abu Dhabi. The Critical Infrastructure and Coastal Protection Authority (CICPA) is a government entity that oversees the security of vital infrastructure and national resources. Businesses operating in high-security zones must obtain this pass to gain authorized entry.

What is a CICPA Pass?

A CICPA Pass is an official permit that allows access to restricted areas in Abu Dhabi, covering both land and water zones. These areas are not accessible to the general public or tourists. The pass ensures that only authorized personnel can enter and perform their duties.

Who Needs a CICPA Pass?

Companies Requiring a CICPA Pass

Businesses operating in critical sectors must obtain a CICPA Pass. These include:

Power plants
Oil and gas manufacturers
Maritime industries
Energy industries
Financial institutions
Transport companies (road, water, air, rail)
Water supply companies
Healthcare providers
Communication industries (working with ADNOC Group)
Government service organizations
Food supply chain companies

Employees Requiring a CICPA Pass

All employees, from top management to labor workers, need a CICPA Pass to work in restricted areas. Additional considerations:

Temporary contract workers can obtain a temporary CICPA Pass.
Public Relations Officers (PROs) managing company applications also require a pass.
Employees driving vehicles in restricted areas must apply for a CICPA Vehicle Pass.

Company Eligibility Criteria for a CICPA Pass

To qualify for a CICPA Pass, companies must meet the following requirements:

Hold a valid Trade License issued by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED).
Be registered with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADCCI).
Obtain Supreme Petroleum Council (SPC) Approval.
Have a contract with a concession-holding company, detailing:
- Duration of the contract
- Work sites
- Number of personnel, vehicles, and vessels
- Photography requirements

Who Cannot Get a CICPA Pass?

Companies with an Abu Dhabi Free Zone Trade License.
Companies licensed in other Emirates.
Employees working in Abu Dhabi Free Zones.
Employees with a Residency/Employment Visa from another Emirate.
Free Zone Visa, Tourist Visa, and Visit Visa holders.

How to Register for a CICPA Pass?

1. CICPA Registration for Companies

Before applying for a CICPA Pass, companies must complete CICPA Registration by following these steps:

Register the company with CICPA.
Register a Letter of Assistance (LOA) with a concession-holding company.
Obtain a PRO Card for the Public Relations Officer.

Once registered, the company can proceed with individual employee applications.

2. Required Documents for CICPA Registration

Companies must submit the following documents:

Completed application form
Trade License
Signatory’s signature authorization
Letter requesting to open a file and approve a PRO
Certified PRO authorization
Letter of Assistance (LOA) with a concession-holding company
Cover letter from the Supreme Petroleum Council (for oil installations)
Completed PRO introduction form
Personal photo (4cm x 6cm, red background, no glasses)
PRO’s POA, passport, labor card, visa, and Emirates ID
Establishment card

How to Apply for a CICPA Pass?

1. Required Documents for Employees

To apply for a CICPA Pass for Employees, the following documents are required:

Completed application form
Completed introduction form
Personal photo (4cm x 6cm, red background, no glasses)
Passport copy (valid for at least six months)
Valid Emirates ID copy
Valid Residency Visa or Employment Visa
Labor Card Copy
Labor Contract Copy and Signature Authentication
Official Letter from the Hiring Company (for government employees)

2. Required Documents for Vehicles

If employees require vehicle access, the following documents are needed:

Completed application form
Vehicle registration card
Letter of Assistance (LOA)
Trade License
Signatory’s signature authorization
No-objection letter from the Traffic and Licensing Department

3. Required Documents for Photography Security Permit

For photography work in restricted areas, applicants must provide:

Completed application form
Letter of Assistance (LOA)
Municipality permit
List of cameras (type and serial number) and personnel details

CICPA Pass Cost in Abu Dhabi

The CICPA Pass fees vary based on the category:

Category	Cost (AED)
Individuals	100 per person
Vehicles	200 per vehicle
Photography	200 per pass/permit
Vessels	500 per vessel

CICPA Pass Validity and Renewal

Validity of a CICPA Pass

The CICPA Pass remains valid as long as the company’s Letter of Assistance (LOA) and PRO Card are active. If these documents expire, the pass automatically becomes invalid.

How to Renew a CICPA Pass

Companies must apply for a CICPA Pass renewal 30 days before expiry. Required documents include:

Completed renewal application form
Copy of the current CICPA Pass
All previously submitted documents (except the Introduction Form)

Validity of a Temporary CICPA Pass

A temporary CICPA Pass can be issued for a minimum of 1 day and a maximum of 30 days.

CICPA Office Address

To submit applications, visit:

Critical Infrastructure and Coastal Protection Authority (CICPA)

2nd Street, Al Bateen Executive Airport,
Al Muntazah – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Conclusion

The CICPA Pass is essential for businesses operating in restricted areas of Abu Dhabi. Companies and employees must meet the eligibility criteria and submit the required documents for registration, application, and renewal. Understanding the process ensures compliance with CICPA regulations, avoiding legal complications and ensuring smooth operations within secured zones.