Dubai Police issue warning over online visa and job scams

Dubai Police have issued a fresh warning to citizens about the growing risk of online scams offering job opportunities and visa applications in exchange for money. The scammers frequently misuse the names of unlicensed companies or impersonate official organizations to trick unsuspecting victims. The Dubai Police Anti-Fraud Centre, as part of its ongoing Be Aware of Fraud campaign, stressed the significance of completing all visa and other important procedures through legitimate channels.

They encouraged the public to remain vigilant and avoid falling prey to deceptive promises of visas or jobs obtained through unlawful means. The public was advised to report any fraudulent activity immediately via the Dubai Police smart app, the eCrime platform for reporting cybercrimes, or by calling 901. To avoid falling victim to labor and visa fraud, individuals should follow these guidelines: obtain an offer letter from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) signed by the authorized manager; confirm the validity of the job offer using its reference number on the MOHRE website; understand that a visit or tourist entry permit does not permit work in the UAE; confirm the employer's responsibility for recruitment expenses under UAE Labour Law; verify the company's details in both English and Arabic via the National Economic Register; contact MOHRE for employment contract and recruitment inquiries; verify the validity of entry permits/visas issued from Dubai on the GDRFA website; verify Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah visas on the eChannels platform of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP); and note that residency visas cannot be processed for applicants outside the UAE, requiring entry with a valid entry permit and staying within the UAE until the residency visa is granted.