Despite one of the world’s most sophisticated property regulators—the Dubai Land Department (DLD) and its Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA)—fraudsters still find cracks to exploit. From doctored title deeds to phantom off‑plan launches, the common denominator is skipping official channels. This guide shows you how to avoid real estate frauds in Dubai and stay on the right side of every transaction.
7 Common Forms of Real Estate Frauds in Dubai
| # | Scam Tactic |
| 1 | Fake property listing |
| 2 | Up‑front “viewing” or “reservation” fees |
| 3 | Bogus rental contracts (fake Ejari) |
| 4 | Forged title deed |
| 5 | Unlicensed “agent” |
| 6 | Off‑plan ghost projects |
| 7 | Double‑sale |
Also Read: Can a Overseas Company Buy Property in Dubai?
Real Estate Frauds in Dubai – Red Flags to Watch For
Real estate frauds in Dubai require a sharp eye for detail. Here are some red flags to watch out for:
- Prices 20 % below market with pressure to decide “today.”
- Requests for payments to a personal IBAN or overseas account.
- Reluctance to meet at a DLD trustee office.
- Refusal to provide original ID or RERA card.
- “Trust me, we’ll register Ejari later” promises.
- Agent/Developer License, Screenshot the RERA license details.
- Title Deed Copy Run it through DLD verification.
- Escrow Confirmation, Off‑plan? Ask for the project escrow account certificate.
- Payment Method Use manager’s cheques or escrow transfers only
- Contract Vetting Have a lawyer review the SPA or tenancy agreement.
- On‑Site Visit, Meet the actual owner or authorised POA holder.
- Registration, Register SPA (for sales) or Ejari (for rentals) the same day.
Also Read: Complete Guide For Breaking Tenancy Contract In Dubai 2025
Bullet‑Proof Due‑Diligence Checklist How to Avoid Real Estate Frauds in Dubai
Our Property lawyers in Dubai will:
- Check corporate records, UBOs, and court cases against the seller/developer.
- Draft escrow‑linked payment schedules.
- Register complaints and pursue civil or criminal recovery.
- Represent you before the Dubai Courts, Rental Dispute Settlement Centre, or DIFC Courts.
Also Read: How to Transfer Ownership Of Property in Dubai
How to Report Real Estate Frauds in Dubai ?
To report real estate frauds in Dubai Follow this:
- Dubai Land Department Complaint Portal – Submit evidence online or call 800‑4488.
- Dubai Police e‑Crime File a criminal report via the Dubai Police app.
- RERA Inspection RERA inspectors can shut down unlicensed brokerage operations.
- Civil Claim Through Dubai Courts or DIFC Courts to recover losses.
Evidence Pack: Title deed, SPA/Ejari, payment receipts, bank statements, emails/WhatsApps, and RERA card copies.
Key Tips When Reporting Real Estate Frauds in Dubai
- Keep WhatsApp chats and voice notes; they are admissible evidence.
- Beware of “early‑bird” launches advertised solely on social media.
- Don’t rely on translations; request bilingual Arabic/English contracts.
Also Read: Guide to Buying Property in Dubai: Legal Tips for Investors
How Amal Khamis Advocates Adds Value?
At Amal Khamis Law Firm, our real estate lawyer in Dubai can:
- Real estate frauds in Dubai investigations and asset tracing.
- SPA, Ejari, and escrow contract drafting.
- Court representation—civil, criminal, or DIFC.
- Negotiation with developers for refunds or handover acceleration.
You Can Also Read About: UAE Real Estate Law
Conclusion
Real estate frauds in Dubai thrive on haste and secrecy. Slow down, verify, and insist on official channels. And if you sense something off, get legal backup—quickly.
Need help now? Book a 20‑minute consultation with our property‑fraud team today. Contact Us Now!
FAQs About Real Estate Frauds in Dubai
1- How can I confirm an agent is legitimate?
Enter their 8‑digit BRN on RERA’s Broker Inquiry page. No listing = walk away.
2- What if I already paid a fake deposit?
Report to DLD and Dubai Police immediately; freeze further payments; instruct your bank to flag the recipient IBAN.
3- Are escrow accounts mandatory for off‑plan?
Yes. Law No. 8 of 2007 requires every off‑plan project to route buyer funds into a RERA‑monitored escrow.
4- Can I verify ownership without the seller’s consent?
Yes. Use the DLD Title Deed Verification service or request a paid valuation report.
