Pakistani embassy issues urgent warning on scams for UAE jobs
Visa and employer verification steps explained
DUBAI: Pakistani nationals seeking jobs in the UAE have been urged to remain extremely cautious following a surge in online employment scams.
In a fresh advisory, the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi stated, “Pakistani citizens are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution when responding to online job advertisements, offered outside the UAE.” The mission further warned that “several individuals have recently fallen victim to fraudulent employment schemes abroad, resulting in serious complications.”
The embassy emphasised the importance of verification, stating, “Always verify job offers outside UAE through official and trusted sources.” This announcement comes amid growing reports of jobseekers being lured with fake offers, only to encounter legal and financial trouble.
Verify job offers
The advisory strongly encourages candidates to authenticate job offers before proceeding. Employment letters from UAE-based firms should be verified through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) portal using their serial or transaction number.
Pakistani citizens may also consult the official UAE website (u.ae), the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi, or the Consulate General in Dubai for cross-checking employer details.
Visa confirmation
Before departing for work in the UAE, applicants must validate their visa status. Dubai-issued visas can be checked through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) site, while visas from other emirates – like Abu Dhabi or Sharjah – should be confirmed through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) portal.
Employment rules
Job seekers must not accept work while on a tourist or visit visa. Engaging in unregistered online jobs or posting unauthorised advertisements may be treated as illegal activity, including fraud or money laundering.
Once employed, Pakistanis should ensure they are enrolled in the UAE’s unemployment insurance scheme (ILOE) and obtain life and medical insurance coverage in both countries.
Labour law assistance is available via the official website or by contacting MOHRE at +971 68027666.