In recent years, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has remained one of the top destinations for Pakistani workers seeking better employment opportunities. With its tax-free salaries, high standard of living, and thriving economy, the UAE continues to attract thousands of job seekers from Pakistan every year. But as demand grows, so does the threat of fake job offers—an alarming trend that has prompted the Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi to issue an urgent public warning.
If you’re planning to work in the UAE or know someone who is, this blog will walk you through the dangers of fraudulent employment schemes, how to verify real job offers, and the steps you can take to protect yourself legally and financially.
The Rise of Fake Job Offers in the UAE: A Growing Threat
Why Are Fake Jobs Becoming Common?
The internet has made it incredibly easy to advertise job offers. Scammers exploit online platforms—like Facebook groups, WhatsApp, job listing websites, and even fake recruitment agencies—to target vulnerable individuals seeking better livelihoods abroad.
These scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, producing realistic offer letters, imitating reputable company names, and even faking communication channels through unofficial emails and phone numbers. With desperation and hope in their hearts, many applicants unknowingly fall into these traps.
Official Advisory: Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi Issues a Warning
The Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi has officially warned Pakistani nationals about the increasing number of fraudulent job offers, particularly those originating from outside the UAE.
“Pakistani nationals are strongly advised to be extremely careful when responding to online job advertisements, especially those originating outside the UAE.”
This statement underlines the need for caution, especially when a job offer sounds too good to be true. Many victims have reported severe financial losses, legal trouble, and emotional distress after falling for such schemes.
The Dangers of Falling for a Fake Job Offer
The risks associated with fake job offers go far beyond losing money. Some of the most critical consequences include:
1. Legal Trouble
- Working in the UAE on a tourist or visit visa is strictly illegal.
- Those caught can face fines, deportation, or imprisonment.
- Accepting a fake job may involve fraudulent documents, leading to charges of forgery or money laundering.
2. Financial Loss
- Victims often pay significant amounts upfront—ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 300,000—for visa processing, documentation, or “security deposits” to scammers.
- Once the money is sent, the scammer disappears, leaving the jobseeker with nothing.
3. Emotional Impact
- Being stranded in a foreign country without support or legal employment can take a toll on one’s mental health, relationships, and future prospects.
Red Flags of a Fake Job in the UAE
Knowing the warning signs can save you from falling into a scam. Here are common red flags to look out for:
- No official email domain: Legitimate companies use official domains (e.g., hr@companyname.ae), not Gmail or Yahoo addresses.
- Upfront payment requests: No credible employer asks for money for job offers, visas, or training.
- Too-good-to-be-true salaries: Entry-level roles offering abnormally high pay are usually fake.
- No interview process: Authentic jobs require a formal interview.
- Immediate joining promises: Scammers often rush applicants to act quickly.
How to Verify a Job Offer in the UAE
Verification is the most important step in ensuring your job offer is legitimate. Here’s how to do it:
Use UAE Government Portals:
- MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation)
- Check your job offer letter’s authenticity using the serial or transaction number via the MOHRE website.
- Dubai Visa Verification
- Use the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website to verify Dubai-issued visas.
- Other Emirates Visa Check
- Go to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) portal for visa verification outside Dubai.
Consult With Official Pakistani Channels:
- Pakistan Embassy in Abu Dhabi
- Consulate General of Pakistan in Dubai
- Licensed Overseas Employment Promoters listed by the Bureau of Emigration & Overseas Employment (https://beoe.gov.pk)
What Legal Measures Should You Take Before Working in the UAE?
1. Do Not Travel on a Tourist or Visit Visa for Work
Tourist visas are not valid for employment. If you’re found working while on a tourist visa, both you and your employer can be penalized under UAE labor laws.
2. Get an Official Work Permit
Ensure that you have a signed contract, MOHRE-verified job offer, and approved work visa before traveling.
3. Secure Insurance Coverage
Once employed in the UAE, it’s mandatory for expatriate workers to:
- Register for Involuntary Loss of Employment (ILOE) insurance.
- Obtain medical and life insurance—either through the employer or privately.
Useful Resources for UAE Job Seekers
| Resource | Purpose | Website |
|---|---|---|
| MOHRE | Job offer verification | mohre.gov.ae |
| GDRFA | Dubai visa status | gdrfad.gov.ae |
| ICP Portal | Non-Dubai visa check | icp.gov.ae |
| BEOE Pakistan | Authorized recruiters | beoe.gov.pk |
Real Victim Story: A Lesson to Learn
One 26-year-old from Lahore shared his story anonymously. He applied for a driver job through Facebook, received a detailed offer letter via WhatsApp, and was asked to pay Rs. 120,000 for visa processing. He never heard back after payment. The visa was fake, and he lost all his savings.
Stories like this are not rare, which makes awareness critical.
Final Words: Stay Alert, Stay Safe
The lure of working in the UAE is understandable. A better income, a promising lifestyle, and career growth are all valid dreams. But falling for a fake job can turn that dream into a nightmare. Pakistani jobseekers must be proactive, cautious, and well-informed before taking any step toward overseas employment.
By using official resources, avoiding unverified job offers, and staying in touch with government agencies, you can protect yourself and others from being defrauded.
