UAE Scam Alert: Dubai Consulate Warns Indians Against Fake Agents Promising Visas, Jobs, Emirates IDs

The Consulate General of India in Dubai issued an alert on Monday (August 31) warning Indian nationals in the UAE, especially workers, against fraudulent agents and individuals claiming to provide services related to visa legalization, emergency certificates, exit permits, Emirates ID cards and employment.

The advisory said several Indian nationals have reportedly fallen victim to scams in which unauthorized individuals seek sensitive personal and biometric information under the guise of assisting with government procedures.

Fraudsters target biometric data

According to the consulate, fraudsters approach Indian nationals and claim to help them obtain an emergency certificate, ‘white passport’, exit permit or boarding pass, Emirates ID, visa processing or employment.

During the fraudulent process, victims are allegedly asked to provide a scan of their face, eyes or fingerprints.

The consulate warned that such biometric data could then be misused to conduct financial transactions, open bank accounts or obtain loans and credit cards in the victims’ names without their knowledge or consent.

Victims may face fines and travel bans

The misuse of personal and financial information can have serious consequences, the adviser said.

Indian nationals could potentially find themselves liable for financial transactions or debts they did not authorize. According to the consulate, this can result in fines, travel bans and in some cases jail time.

The mission urged Indian nationals to be especially cautious when dealing with people offering to help with immigration or government documentation.

Do not share your passport, Emirates ID or biometrics

The consulate has advised Indian nationals not to share their passport, Emirates ID, biometric information or personal and financial details with unauthorized persons or agencies.

It said biometric scans required for procedures such as exit permits, Emirates ID or visa legalization should only be provided at official UAE government facilities and counters.

Applicants should not provide such information to private individuals, agents or third-party service providers who claim to be affiliated with the UAE authorities.

The embassy does not require biometric scans

The consulate has issued a special warning regarding passport and emergency certificate applications.

The Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi do not require applicants to provide fingerprints or face/eye scans for passports or emergency certificates.

Anyone requesting such biometric information while claiming to represent or act on behalf of an Indian embassy or consulate should be considered a potential fraudster.

How Indians can verify agents

Indian nationals approached by individuals or agents requesting biometric information or Emirates ID have been advised to verify their credentials before proceeding.

The consulate said they can approach the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayta Kendra (PBSK) for verification or assistance.

They can contact PBSK through toll free number 80046342 or contact it through WhatsApp/SMS on 00971543090571. Help is also available through the email address pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in.

The consulate urges vigilance

The Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Northern Emirates has urged all Indian nationals living in or visiting the UAE to remain cautious when approached by people offering immigration, documentation or employment services.

It advised individuals to verify the credentials of agents and agencies and report suspicious activity to the Indian consulate or relevant UAE authorities immediately.

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