The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) in the UAE has warned job seekers about an increase in fake job offers and visa scams targeting people who want to work in the UAE.
According to an official statement, some scammers pretend to be legitimate employers or recruitment agencies and ask applicants to pay fees for job processing, visas, or entry permits. MoHRE made it clear that genuine job offers in the UAE are always issued through the ministry and must come with an official work entry permit.
“If someone offers you a job in the UAE, make sure it comes through MoHRE,” the ministry said. “You must receive an official entry permit before starting work. Working on a tourist or visit visa is illegal and can result in fines or legal action.”
MoHRE shared several important steps job seekers should follow to stay safe from fake offers and scams:
- Verify the offer: Ensure the job offer is issued by MoHRE and signed by the authorised employer.
- Check the offer status: Visit the MoHRE website and use the “Application Status Inquiry” service to confirm the offer number.
- Entry permits only via MoHRE: After signing the offer, your employer must issue an electronic work entry permit for you to enter the UAE legally.
- Do not work on tourist or visit visas.
- No upfront fees: Under UAE law, employers—not workers—must cover recruitment costs.
- Confirm company details: Check the employer’s registration on the National Economic Register.
- Verify visa authenticity:
- For Dubai-issued visas, use the GDRFA website.
- For other emirates, use the ICP eChannels platform.
- Avoid middlemen or unlicensed agents. Tourist entry permits are only issued through licensed airlines (Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia), hotels, or registered travel agencies.
- Check official fees before making any payment and seek help through the Amer live chat (Dubai) or ICP eChannels (other emirates).
- Residency visas cannot be processed outside the UAE—you must enter with a valid work entry permit.
