The countdown to Eid Al Adha has already started across the UAE. Shopping malls are extending hours, delivery bikes are racing through busy streets in Dubai Marina and Deira, and social media feeds are packed with Eid promotions promising massive discounts on everything from fashion and perfumes to staycations and electronics.
But amid the festive excitement, Dubai Police are warning residents to slow down and think twice before clicking on flashy online deals.
Authorities have issued a public advisory ahead of Eid Al Adha, cautioning residents about the growing number of online scams targeting shoppers during one of the busiest retail periods of the year.
With families preparing for gatherings, holidays, gifts, and travel plans, scammers are using the rush to their advantage.
Also read: Dubai Private Schools to Get Week-Long Eid Al Adha Break – Social Kandura
Fake Eid offers are flooding social media
In the days leading up to Eid, scrolling through social media in Dubai almost feels like walking through a digital marketplace. Sponsored ads, influencer promotions, and pop-up stores appear everywhere, each claiming to offer the “best Eid sale” or “limited-time discounts.”
Dubai Police say scammers know exactly how to blend into that environment.
According to authorities, many fake sellers create pages that look nearly identical to real businesses. Some use copied logos, stolen product images, and even fake customer reviews to appear trustworthy.
Residents may come across luxury watches being sold at unbelievably low prices, heavily discounted travel packages, or branded fashion items that normally cost thousands of dirhams, offered for a fraction of the price.
At first glance, everything may look convincing. But once payment is made, many buyers either receive counterfeit items or nothing at all.
In some cases, scam pages disappear completely within hours.
Eid season becomes a peak period for scams
Eid shopping in the UAE is more than just a seasonal activity. It becomes part of the atmosphere across the city.
From packed parking lots at the Mall of the Emirates to late-night crowds at Global Village and City Walk, residents spend heavily during the festive season. Many families buy new outfits, organise gatherings at home, book short getaways, and order gifts online for relatives and friends.
That sudden spike in spending creates the perfect opportunity for cybercriminals.
Dubai Police explained that fraudsters often target consumers when they are rushing to grab offers quickly. Limited-time countdowns, flash sales, and “only a few items left” messages are commonly used to pressure shoppers into making fast decisions.
Authorities say scammers also rely on emotional urgency during festive seasons, knowing people are less likely to stop and verify whether a seller is genuine.
Dubai Police share important safety advice
To help residents avoid falling victim to scams, Dubai Police have shared a list of important safety measures ahead of Eid Al Adha.
One of the biggest warnings involves suspicious payment methods. Authorities strongly advised residents never to transfer money to personal bank accounts while shopping online.
Legitimate businesses usually provide secure payment gateways, business accounts, and verified customer service channels.
Residents are also being urged to avoid clicking random “Order Now” links shared through social media advertisements or WhatsApp messages.
Before making a purchase, shoppers should verify whether the seller has an official website, customer reviews, valid contact information, and proper business credentials.
Dubai Police also stressed that if a deal feels unrealistic, it probably is.
A luxury handbag being sold for a tiny fraction of its market value or a hotel stay priced far below normal rates should immediately raise concerns.
Authorities further reminded residents never to share banking details, card numbers, passwords, or OTP verification codes with unknown individuals online.
Social media shopping continues to grow in Dubai
Online shopping habits in Dubai have changed dramatically over the past few years. Many residents now discover local businesses directly through Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat instead of traditional websites.
Homegrown brands, pop-up businesses, and boutique sellers have become increasingly popular, especially during Eid shopping periods.
While this trend has made shopping more convenient and personal, it has also made it easier for fake sellers to blend in.
Dubai Police say residents should take a few extra minutes to research unfamiliar accounts before placing orders. Looking through tagged photos, checking comments carefully, and confirming whether the business has a consistent online presence can help identify suspicious sellers.
For many Dubai residents, online shopping has become part of daily life. But during busy festive periods like Eid, authorities say digital awareness becomes just as important as finding the best deals.
Staying cautious can prevent costly mistakes
Dubai Police continue to remind residents that online scams are evolving quickly, especially during high-traffic shopping seasons.
The festive rush, endless promotions, and pressure to secure “exclusive” offers can sometimes make even experienced shoppers lower their guard.
Authorities say taking a few extra moments to verify a seller, double-check payment methods, and avoid suspicious links can prevent financial loss and identity theft.
As Dubai prepares for another busy Eid season filled with shopping, celebrations, and travel, residents are being encouraged to enjoy the festivities while staying alert online.
Read More:
- Global Village Dubai Extends Season Until Eid Al Adha Holidays – Social Kandura
- Eid Staycation Deals in Dubai You’ll Want to Book Now
- Visa-Free Getaways UAE Residents Are Booking Right Now
- How to Plan the Perfect Eid Weekend in Budget
Follow Social Kandura for more updates on local news and things to do in Dubai and across the UAE.
