UAE Authorities and Experts Warn Against Fraudulent Freelance Visa Schemes

Fraudulent agents across the UAE are advertising low-cost freelance visas on social media platforms, according to reports from Khaleej Times via Menafn. In one case cited by Firose Khan, CEO of Arabian Business Centre, a 55-year-old Dubai resident paid Dh7,000 for a supposed two-year freelance visa, only to be registered as a partner in an unknown company. When the resident attempted to renew the visa two years later, the company had been blacklisted and its partners had absconded, leaving him liable for outstanding corporate fines and obligations.

Another victim on a visit visa lost Dh8,000 to an unauthorised social media agent while attempting to obtain freelance residency to regularise their legal status. Noushad Hussain, managing director of Alhind Business Center, warned that unusually cheap rates, such as Dh1,000 per month, are major red flags because UAE government visa fees are standardized. Hussain also noted that submitting passports and Emirates ID copies to unverified online intermediaries exposes applicants to personal data theft and document misuse.

Dubai Police and the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFA Dubai) continue active enforcement against illegal visa promotions, including the recent arrest of a singer accused of marketing fake freelance visas for cash. Khan clarified that authentic freelance status in the UAE cannot be arranged through mainland company partner visas; legitimate freelance visas are granted only through specific UAE free zones and must be accompanied by an official freelance license allowing holders to conduct business and receive payments legally.

Victims of visa fraud are advised to contact their financial institutions immediately to request payment recalls, chargebacks, or account freezes. Suspected fraud can be officially reported via Dubai Police's eCrime portal, smart app, or the 901 non-emergency line, or through the Aman service in Abu Dhabi.