Dubai Police Issue Urgent Warning Against Online Visa and Job Scams

Dubai Police on Tuesday issued a renewed warning to the public regarding the growing threat of online fraudsters who promise employment and visas in exchange for cash. Authorities noted that scammers frequently impersonate official bodies or use the names of unlicensed companies, leveraging social media and messaging apps to deceive unsuspecting victims.

As part of its ongoing Be Aware of Fraud campaign, the anti-fraud centre at Dubai Police stressed the critical need to handle all visa and essential transactions strictly through official channels. Officials urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and avoid falling for false promises regarding jobs or visas secured through illicit methods.

Individuals who encounter suspicious activity are encouraged to report it immediately through the Dubai Police smart app, the eCrime platform for cybercrime reports, or by calling 901.

Essential Tips to Avoid Labour and Visa Fraud

The public can follow several key steps to protect themselves from falling victim to these scams:

• Ensure any job offer in the UAE includes an official offer letter issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and signed by an authorised manager.
• Verify the validity of the job offer using its reference number via the application status inquiry service on the MOHRE website.
• Remember that after signing the offer letter, employers must send an electronic entry permit for employment to legally enter the country.
• Note that working on a visit or tourist entry permit or visa is illegal and will lead to fines and legal liability.
• Keep in mind that employers are legally responsible for recruitment expenses under UAE Labour Law.
• Search for the company's English and Arabic names in the National Economic Register to review their details.
• Contact MOHRE for recruitment and employment contract inquiries by phone at 009716-802-7666, by email, or via their live chat service.
• Verify visas or entry permits issued in Dubai directly on the website of GDRFA.
• Check the validity of entry permits or visas issued from Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, or Fujairah through the eChannels platform of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP).
• Be aware that residency visas cannot be processed for applicants who are still outside the UAE; applicants must enter the country using a valid entry permit and remain there until the residency visa is officially issued.