Online platforms like Facebook and Dubizzle used to exploit house-hunters seeking affordable homes
A growing number of expats in Dubai are falling victim to a new wave of rental scams, where fraudsters posing as property agents collect advance deposits for rooms or apartments — and then disappear without a trace.
Social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace and listing sites such as Dubizzle have become breeding grounds for these scams, giving fraudsters easy access to a steady stream of house-hunting residents.
These fake agents typically lure prospective tenants with attractive listings and images, arrange viewings at legitimate properties — often ones they don’t actually manage — and then demand a deposit to “secure the place.” Once the money is transferred, they vanish.
Victim Speaks Out
One such victim, V.S., a dental assistant from India, shared her experience. Recently relocated to Dubai, she was urgently searching for a budget-friendly room close to her job. She came across an appealing listing on Facebook — a room near BurJuman Mall, within her budget and conveniently located.
“It felt like the right place at the right price. Everything seemed normal until I transferred the deposit,” she said. “After that, the so-called agent stopped responding to my messages.”
V.S. later learned she was not the only one duped by the same listing.
High Demand, Higher Risks
With Dubai’s rental market moving quickly, especially in popular areas, expats often feel pressured to make decisions fast — a vulnerability scammers readily exploit. The rush to secure housing means many do not have time to verify the legitimacy of listings or agents.
Authorities have warned residents to exercise caution, avoid transferring money before signing verified contracts, and use registered real estate agencies only.
Despite public awareness efforts, the scams continue to evolve, with fraudsters using convincing tactics and often replicating real listings to build trust.
