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 Form Of Real Estate Frauds in Dubai
| # | Scam Tactic | How It Works | Counter‑Move |
| 1 | Fake property listing | Photos of a property that is already sold—or never existed—lure buyers to pay deposits. | Cross‑check the listing’s Trakheesi number on the DLD portal and insist on viewing the unit with the title‑holder present. |
| 2 | Up‑front “viewing” or “reservation” fees | Fraudster demands AED 1,000–5,000 in cash to “secure” a unit. | Pay nothing outside the trustee office or escrow. Issue a manager’s cheque only after confirming identity. |
| 3 | Bogus rental contracts (fake Ejari) | Tenant receives an unofficial PDF; landlord pockets the money. | Generate Ejari only via an authorised typing centre or the Dubai REST app. |
| 4 | Forged title deed | Scammer shows a color print‑out of a doctored deed. | Use DLD’s Title Deed Verification e‑service (AED 250) before signing. |
| 5 | Unlicensed “agent” | Taxi drivers, con artists, or even friends pose as brokers. | Ask for the RERA broker card; verify the number on RERA’s Broker Inquiry tool. |
| 6 | Off‑plan ghost projects | “Pre‑launch” towers marketed by unregistered sellers never break ground. | Confirm the project’s Escrow Account Number and developer registration on the DLD Oqood system. |
| 7 | Double‑sale | Seller signs two SPAs for the same unit, collects two deposits. | Register your SPA and pay the 4 % transfer at DLD immediately; the system blocks duplicate sales. |
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, 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 lawyers 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 hand‑over acceleration.
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.
