Dubai Police are warning residents about a rise in fraudulent advertisements on social media that falsely claim to offer recruitment and placement services for domestic workers and support staff.
According to the police, these misleading ads are being used by scammers to target individuals looking to hire household help. The goal is to illegally obtain money from unsuspecting residents by posing as recruitment agents or service providers operating outside official and legal channels.
Contents
How the scams work
The warning was issued through the Anti-Fraud Centre of the General Department of Criminal Investigation, which said the ads often appear on popular social media platforms. These postings may promise fast processing, lower fees, or direct placement without proper documentation.
Once contact is made, victims are asked to transfer money for supposed processing or reservation fees. In many cases, no service is provided after payment, and communication is eventually cut off.
Also Read: UAE Law on Domestic Workers: 12-Hours Daily Rest, 30 Days Leave, Weekly Off
Dubai Police are urging residents who are seeking domestic help to work only with licensed and accredited recruitment offices operating within the UAE. These agencies follow approved procedures that are designed to protect the rights of employers, workers, and recruitment firms.
Residents are strongly advised not to transfer money to individuals or companies promoting recruitment services outside official channels. Police stressed that following approved hiring procedures is the only reliable way to avoid fraud and ensure legal protection for all parties involved.
#News | Dubai Police Warn Against Fraudulent Recruitment Offers on social media: Only Use Licensed Agencies for Domestic Workers
Details:https://t.co/Mj9U4U5RK3#BewareOfFraud#AntiFraudCentre pic.twitter.com/vvrYneEOV8
— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) January 6, 2026
Part of an ongoing anti-fraud campaign
The warning forms part of Dubai Police’s ongoing #BewareofFraud campaign, which aims to raise public awareness about evolving scam tactics and encourage residents to stay vigilant when dealing with online offers.
Authorities continue to monitor online platforms and investigate reports linked to fraudulent recruitment schemes.
How to report suspicious activity
Dubai Police reminded the public that suspected scams or fraudulent advertisements can be reported through official channels, including:
- The Dubai Police Smart App
- The eCrime platform for cybercrime reports
- The non-emergency hotline 901
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity promptly to help prevent others from becoming victims.