Every year, thousands of hopefuls receive job offers from companies in the UAE. Unfortunately, not all of them are real. Fake job offers have become a serious problem, especially for people from abroad dreaming of a career in the Emirates.
Scammers often pose as recruiters or employers, sending out fake offer letters that look convincing and official. These frauds usually ask for fees for visa processing, medical tests, or administration—things that real companies in the UAE never charge candidates for.
Here’s a full guide on how you can identify whether a UAE job offer is genuine or fake—before it’s too late.
1. Check the Email Domain
Most fake job offers come from free email services like Gmail, Yahoo, or Hotmail. Legitimate companies in the UAE will use their official domain email address, such as:
If the offer comes from anything other than the official company domain, it’s a red flag.
2. Look for Company Information
Real companies always mention:
- Company name
- Address and contact details
- Website URL
Search the company name online. If it doesn’t have a website or its details don’t match, be cautious. Also, check if the company is listed on the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or Dubai Economy database.
3. No Real Interview? Be Suspicious
Legitimate employers always conduct interviews—either via phone, Zoom, or in person. If a company sends you an offer without even speaking to you, it’s probably a scam.
Scammers usually skip interviews and go straight to fake documentation to lure you in.
4. Review the Language and Formatting
Scam job offers often have:
- Poor grammar and spelling
- Incorrect formatting
- Vague job roles or unrealistic salaries
Authentic offer letters are written in professional language, have proper headers, and are specific about the job title, responsibilities, and benefits.
5. Never Pay for a Job Offer
This is the biggest giveaway. In the UAE, it’s illegal for recruitment agencies to charge candidates for jobs. All fees must be paid by the employer.
If you’re asked to pay:
- Visa charges
- Security deposits
- Processing fees
- Training charges
It’s likely a scam. Real companies handle all the paperwork and cost themselves.
6. Verify the Offer with the Company Directly
If you’re unsure, go to the official company website, get their HR email or phone number, and ask if they have made you an offer.
Attach the offer letter and ask, “Can you please confirm if this offer is genuine?” Most companies will respond and clarify.
7. Check the Offer Letter Format
A genuine UAE offer letter includes:
- Company letterhead and logo
- Full address and official stamp
- Clear job title, salary, and benefits
- Your full name and passport number
- Company signature and date
Fake letters are often missing one or more of these elements.
8. Cross-Check the Company License
In the UAE, all employers must be registered and licensed. You can check the company’s legal status via:
This gives you peace of mind that the company is real and operational.
9. Ask About the Visa Process
Scammers often say “We’ll process your visa after you pay a fee.” This is not how it works.
In real cases:
- The employer processes the visa after you sign the contract
- You’re informed step-by-step
- You’ll receive your job offer through the MOHRE portal if it’s legitimate
No payments are needed from your end.
10. Get a Second Opinion
Still unsure? Show the job offer to:
- A trusted friend or professional in the UAE
- Facebook groups with UAE job seekers
- UAE embassy or consulate in your country
- Legal advisory services
It never hurts to double-check when it comes to your future.
Final Thoughts
Being offered a job in the UAE is exciting, but don’t let emotions cloud your judgment. If something feels off, trust your gut. Take a few extra steps to verify the offer before making any decisions.
No real employer will ask you for money. No real job skips interviews. Always verify before you leap.
Stay safe, stay informed, and good luck on your UAE job journey!
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