Dubai Police warn residents of rise in work visa scams
Dubai Police have issued a warning to residents about a rise in work visa scams, urging the public to stay alert against fraudsters offering employment and visa sponsorships with no legal basis.The warning was issued by the Anti-Fraud Centre at the General Department of Criminal Investigation, which said scammers often lure victims with false promises of guaranteed jobs or fast-tracked visas, usually in exchange for upfront payments.Authorities stressed that work visas can only be obtained through official government channels or legally licensed recruitment agencies. Any offer made outside these channels should be treated with suspicion.Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.Police said victims are often targeted through social media platforms, messaging apps, or informal networks, where scammers pose as agents or company representatives and exploit job seekers’ urgency.How to protect yourselfDubai Police advised residents to take the following precautions:Verify visa offers by checking their authenticity with relevant official authorities before making any paymentUse authorised channels only, including accredited recruitment offices and government platformsRemain cautious of individuals or groups promising “guaranteed” visas or shortcuts outside standard legal proceduresHow to report a scamResidents who encounter suspicious offers or believe they have been targeted are encouraged to report the incidents to help protect others. Reports can be made through:The Dubai Police smart appThe eCrime platform for online and cyber-related offencesCalling 901 for non-emergency enquiriesDubai Police warn residents of rising fake ticket scams during concerts, travelUAE: Scammed with fake tickets? How to get your money back
Dubai Police have issued a warning to residents about a rise in work visa scams, urging the public to stay alert against fraudsters offering employment and visa sponsorships with no legal basis.
The warning was issued by the Anti-Fraud Centre at the General Department of Criminal Investigation, which said scammers often lure victims with false promises of guaranteed jobs or fast-tracked visas, usually in exchange for upfront payments.
Authorities stressed that work visas can only be obtained through official government channels or legally licensed recruitment agencies. Any offer made outside these channels should be treated with suspicion.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
Police said victims are often targeted through social media platforms, messaging apps, or informal networks, where scammers pose as agents or company representatives and exploit job seekers’ urgency.
How to protect yourself
Dubai Police advised residents to take the following precautions:
Verify visa offers by checking their authenticity with relevant official authorities before making any payment
Use authorised channels only, including accredited recruitment offices and government platforms
Remain cautious of individuals or groups promising “guaranteed” visas or shortcuts outside standard legal procedures
How to report a scam
Residents who encounter suspicious offers or believe they have been targeted are encouraged to report the incidents to help protect others. Reports can be made through:
The Dubai Police smart app
The eCrime platform for online and cyber-related offences
Calling 901 for non-emergency enquiries
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