A guide to spotting red flags in renting property
The rental market in the UAE is booming, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi offering a wide range of properties for residents and expatriates. However, along with rapid growth comes the risk of rental scams in Dubai. In recent years, online transactions and digital platforms have made it easier for fraudsters to trick unsuspecting tenants.
While the UAE has strong laws governing real estate transactions, rental scams in Dubai persist, affecting both first-time renters and long-time residents alike. Whether you are a young professional or a family looking for a new home, knowing how to spot a fake rental deal can save you from financial loss and legal trouble. Here is a breakdown of the most common rental scams in Dubai and across the UAE.
One of the earliest warning signs of a rental scam is when the landlord or agent refuses to meet in person. They may offer several excuses, such as being abroad, unavailable due to work, or needing to close the deal quickly. Scammers will send pictures of a beautiful apartment or villa to lure you in, but will often discourage or delay physical visits.
How to stay safe:
Never commit to a rental or send any money without physically viewing the property. Insist on a face-to-face meeting or a live video walkthrough.
Some scammers produce fake tenancy agreements that appear legitimate. These documents may carry copied logos of real estate firms or contain forged signatures, making them look professional at first glance.
How to stay safe:
Verify the agent’s identity and registration on the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA) website. If dealing with a company, confirm their license through the Dubai Land Department (DLD) or use the Dubai REST app.
Online payment scams are becoming more sophisticated. A common tactic is to ask tenants to make payments using QR codes, suspicious links, or third-party platforms that are not traceable. Once the transaction is completed, the scammer disappears.
How to stay safe:
Avoid sending money through unofficial channels. Never click on random payment links or scan QR codes from unknown sources. Legitimate landlords will typically request a secure bank transfer or cheque once the lease is signed. This type of fraud is one of the fastest-growing rental scams in Dubai.
In Dubai, it is illegal to sublet a rented property without the landlord’s explicit permission. Scammers sometimes pose as property owners but are merely tenants looking to sublet and earn a quick profit.
How to stay safe:
Ask for the title deed or property ownership document. If someone claims to be authorized to lease on behalf of the owner, demand written approval or power of attorney. You can also confirm details with the building’s management or security desk.
Scammers often pressure tenants to pay non-refundable fees upfront, even before seeing the property or signing a lease. These may be labeled as reservation fees, viewing charges, or token amounts.
How to stay safe:
Genuine landlords or brokers will not demand payment before a formal agreement. Avoid any deal where you are asked to pay money to hold or view a property. These upfront demands are classic signs of rental scams in Dubai.
Ejari registration is mandatory in Dubai for all rental agreements. Without it, tenants cannot apply for utility services such as DEWA, sponsor family visas, or take legal action in case of disputes. Some landlords delay or completely avoid Ejari registration, leaving tenants legally exposed.
How to stay safe:
Ensure that your lease is registered with Ejari as soon as it is signed. You can check its status via the DLD website or app. If the landlord is hesitant to register, consider that a red flag often linked to rental scams in Dubai.
Some landlords agree to carry out repairs or maintenance before or shortly after you move in, such as fixing air conditioning, plumbing issues, or broken appliances. But once the lease is signed and payment is made, they delay the repairs indefinitely or ignore your requests altogether. This leaves tenants living in uncomfortable or even unsafe conditions.
How to stay safe:
Make sure all promised repairs are documented in writing within the lease agreement or via email. Set a clear deadline for completion. If the landlord fails to act, you can raise a complaint with the Dubai Rental Dispute Center or involve the building’s facilities management team for urgent fixes.
Beyond spotting scams, here are a few more actions you can take to ensure the property is genuine and the transaction is secure.
Renting in the UAE can be a smooth and secure process as long as you remain vigilant and informed. Rental scams in Dubai often prey on urgency, emotional decisions, or the temptation of a deal that seems too good to be true. Whether you are relocating to Dubai, moving within the city, or helping a family member rent, take your time to verify all documents, meet the right people, and go through proper legal steps. If anything seems off, pause, verify, and walk away if needed.
