As more UAE job seekers turn to online platforms in search of opportunities, scammers are seizing the moment with fake job offers promising high salaries, little to no work, and instant hiring. These offers often come dressed up with phrases like “work from home,” “no experience required,” and “flexible hours.”
The UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has now issued a job scam alert, urging job seekers to remain cautious, stay informed, and verify any employment offer before taking action.
Red flags: What fake job offers often look like
Many victims are first lured in by ads that seem harmless—and even exciting. A promise of AED 20,000 a month for remote work? No interviews? No degree needed? It’s easy to understand why someone would bite.
But these seemingly perfect offers often have a catch: upfront payments. Whether it’s a “processing fee,” “application fee,” or “equipment charge,” scammers try to pressure job seekers into transferring money before anything official happens.
According to MoHRE, genuine employers never ask candidates to pay for job placements, visa processing, or work supplies.
“Job seekers should never agree to pay money to secure a job. Genuine employers cover all recruitment costs, and a valid job offer will always be verified through the ministry,” said MoHRE officials.
MoHRE outlines the legal process
To help prevent job fraud, the Ministry has outlined several official steps every real job offer must follow:
- Official job offer letter: Every legitimate offer must come through the MoHRE system. It is mandatory for employers to issue this before applying for a work visa.
- Work visa requirement: Accepting employment while on a tourist or visit visa is illegal in the UAE. A valid work visa, issued after the job offer is processed, is essential.
- No recruitment charges: UAE labour law requires employers to handle all recruitment-related costs. Job seekers are not obligated to pay anything.
These guidelines aim to protect both workers and the country’s job market integrity.
Steps to stay safe: How to avoid falling victim
MoHRE and other UAE entities recommend the following safety checks before committing to any offer:
- Confirm the offer’s authenticity using the MoHRE job offer number via their official website or by contacting the UAE embassy in your home country.
- Avoid paying money to recruitment agents or intermediaries—especially if they insist on urgency.
- Ensure the company is legally registered in the UAE using the National Economic Register.
- Do not work on a visit or tourist visa. These are not valid for employment under UAE law.
- Verify the company’s location and business license. Reputable firms have traceable operations.
- Contact MoHRE directly at +971 6802 7666 or via email at ask@mohre.gov.ae if anything seems suspicious.
Visa verification made simple
If you’ve already received a visa, double-check its authenticity before making any commitments. Depending on the emirate:
- Dubai visas can be verified through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
- Other emirates should use the ICP eChannels platform.
For those visiting or relocating to the UAE, only use official visa sources, such as UAE-based airlines, licensed travel agencies, or registered hotels.
Legal hiring: How the employment process should work
MoHRE has also streamlined the hiring process to ensure greater transparency. All employment contracts in the UAE must:
- Be issued through MoHRE’s official digital platforms.
- Be signed by both employer and employee.
- Include detailed terms, job role, salary, and duration.
- Be followed by the issuance of a work permit and residence visa.
Work permits can be renewed up to 60 days before expiry, and certain professions must complete orientation through awareness centres before beginning employment.
Job Scam alert: Rising awareness and government action
This isn’t the first time UAE authorities have flagged the issue. Embassies—such as the Pakistani Embassy in the UAE—have issued similar warnings urging nationals to verify overseas employment offers and avoid illegitimate agents.
These scams not only harm individuals but also tarnish the image of the UAE’s job market. MoHRE’s awareness campaigns aim to clamp down on fraudulent hiring by improving transparency and giving job seekers the tools to protect themselves.
Don’t be a victim—stay informed, stay safe
The UAE continues to be a top destination for international professionals. But with opportunity comes risk. Knowing the signs of a scam and taking the proper precautions can mean the difference between landing a dream job and falling into a costly trap.
Stay alert. Verify every step. And never pay to get hired.
