Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

UAE authorities have issued a stern warning to jobseekers about employment scams, urging vigilance and awareness when applying for jobs. In a recent statement, Abu Dhabi Police highlighted the prevalence of fraudulent schemes that exploit jobseekers' desperation, using deceptive recruitment methods to extract money and personal information. The police cautioned that scammers often create fake online recruitment pages or social media campaigns, claiming to offer lucrative job opportunities. These schemes frequently coincide with major events or conferences to appear credible. Victims are typically asked to pay upfront fees for fictitious work permits or processing fees, a practice that is illegal under UAE labor laws. "Legitimate employers and recruitment agencies are prohibited from charging jobseekers any kind of fees," Dubai Police has repeatedly emphasized. Speaking to Expat Media, Lt. Wafa Qaid Nasser AlQamesh advised victims to report such incidents through the Dubai Police app, visit the nearest Smart Police Station (SPS), or call 901 for assistance. The warning follows an uptick in complaints about scams involving bogus job offers. According to Abu Dhabi Police, victims should remain cautious about sharing sensitive information such as bank account details, ATM PINs, and credit card security codes. Fraudsters often use these details to commit identity theft or financial fraud.

A Filipina jobseeker’s ordeal: A cautionary tale

Adding a personal dimension to the issue, a Filipina jobseeker in Dubai, identified as M.P., shared to Expat Media her harrowing experience after falling victim to a fake job interview that cost her Dh300. “I was desperate to find a job. I even borrowed that money,” M.P. revealed. “My husband is sick, and I need money to help pay the bills.” She explained that her ordeal began after responding to an advertisement on Dubizzle for a secretary position, which promised immediate employment. M.P. attended an interview at a supposed HR consultancy near Salah Al Din Metro Station in Deira. Conducted by a Filipina representative, the interview appeared credible. She was asked to pay Dh300, purportedly for a “temporary work permit” and processing fees. “They said Dh250 was for the permit, and Dh50 was for processing,” M.P. said, adding that the involvement of a Filipina made her trust the process. However, after paying the fees, the company became unresponsive. Phone calls and WhatsApp messages went unanswered, and M.P. realized she had been scammed. Determined to prevent others from falling victim, M.P. reported the incident to Dubai Police. Despite the setback, she remains hopeful that her experience will serve as a warning to others. On Friday, Expat Media attempted to contact the Filipina representative involved in the scam. She declined to comment on whether she was aware that soliciting fees from jobseekers is against UAE law.

Protecting jobseekers in the UAE

Authorities are urging jobseekers to be vigilant and verify the legitimacy of job offers. Abu Dhabi Police advised reporting suspicious activities via the Aman Service hotline at 8002626 or by sending a text message to 2828. “Awareness is the best defense. Do not share sensitive information or pay fees for job offers. Always verify the authenticity of the recruitment agency or employer,” police said. ICA/PIA/Expat Media
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