UAE cracks down on fake Dubai job ads with 230 accounts shut and fines up to Dh100,000
Officials urge jobseekers to verify vacancies through licensed channels
DUBAI – UAE authorities have taken decisive action against fraudulent employment schemes, shutting down 230 social media accounts promoting fake job opportunities.
The move comes after reports of overseas jobseekers and residents being tricked into paying fees for bogus visa processing, recruitment, or work placement services. Victims were lured online with slogans such as “excellent job opportunities in Dubai” but received no legitimate offers.
Illegal advertising
Officials confirmed that the accounts were operating without government licences and unlawfully advertising recruitment services.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced the closure of 230 social media accounts during the past year that were promoting domestic worker recruitment services, in cooperation with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority… pic.twitter.com/dHFbAtlxSS
— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) February 11, 2026
Promoting employment opportunities without proper authorisation constitutes a criminal offence under UAE law. Those responsible now face fines ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh100,000 ($5,400–$27,000) and up to six months imprisonment.
Domestic worker focus
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) highlighted that many of the closed accounts were targeting domestic worker recruitment. The crackdown, conducted in collaboration with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), revealed that these accounts were not affiliated with licensed recruitment offices and were operating entirely outside the legal framework.
Protecting workers
MoHRE emphasised that its integrated field and digital regulatory system safeguards the rights of all parties involved in employment and recruitment. Authorities urge jobseekers to verify vacancies through official channels and licensed recruitment agencies, and to avoid transferring money in response to online job offers. Any misleading advertisements or negative practices can be reported by contacting 600590000.
Official resources
A list of licensed recruitment offices is available on MoHRE’s website, providing a reliable reference for those seeking employment in the UAE. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to combat online fraud and protect the country’s labour market from exploitation and misinformation.