Dubai Property Scams: How to Verify Agents and Listings

Short answer: To avoid Dubai property scams, verify the agent's RERA registration, check the advertisement permit on the listing, confirm the property or project with the Dubai Land Department, and only pay through traceable, regulated channels such as an escrow account. Never pay a deposit to a personal account or because of pressure.

Common red flags

• Prices far below similar units in the same building.
• Pressure to pay a deposit immediately, or only by cash or transfer to a personal account.
• No advertisement permit number on the listing.
• An agent who cannot show a valid registration or who avoids meeting or video calls.
• Requests for your passport copy and bank details before any agreement.
• Landlords or sellers who are "abroad" and cannot provide documents.

How to verify a real estate agent or agency in Dubai

1. Ask for the agent's RERA broker card or registration number, and the agency's licence.
2. Verify these through the official Dubai Land Department channels, not a link or QR code sent by the agent.
3. Check the permit number on the advert against the property and agency it is issued to.
4. Search the agency name independently and read recent reviews.

How to verify a listing and the property

1. Confirm the seller's name matches the title deed or the developer's project registration.
2. For off-plan, confirm the project is registered and that payments go to its escrow account.
3. Check there is no mortgage or encumbrance on a resale unit.
4. Visit in person or have a trusted representative inspect the unit.

Should I hire a real estate lawyer in Dubai?

For large purchases or complex deals, an independent lawyer can review contracts and verify documents. Choose one with a verifiable licence and agree fees in writing.

Safe payment practice

Use bank transfers or manager's cheques to the named, regulated accounts, keep receipts and never pay on the basis of a message alone. If something feels wrong, stop and verify.

See also is it safe to invest in Dubai real estate, the step-by-step buying guide and our Dubai city guide. This is general information, not legal advice.

How do I know if a property listing on a portal is real?

• Check the advertisement permit number and QR code on the listing. RERA requires permits for real estate marketing and says the public should not engage with ads that lack a permit and QR code.
• Scan the QR code to see the property data linked to the permit and compare it with the listing.
• Confirm the broker and company are licensed (next section).
• Be wary of prices far below similar units and requests for deposits before a viewing.

How do I verify a broker's RERA licence online?

Brokers in Dubai must be registered and hold a broker card from the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). The Dubai Land Department offers an e-card verification service for real estate practitioners and publishes a list of licensed brokerage companies. DLD has also said licensed brokers can be checked in the Dubai REST app. Use these official channels, not a link or QR code sent by the agent.

How do I report a fraudulent real estate agent in Dubai?

The Dubai Land Department's Real Estate Violation System accepts reports of violations by real estate companies and brokers, including unlicensed activity and cold calls, with supporting documents. Note the limits stated by DLD: contractual disputes and requests to refund money paid are not handled through that service and go to the courts, and complaints about contracts concluded more than six months ago are not considered. If you have lost money, also contact the police and your bank quickly.

Sources

• DLD: Real estate complaints
• DLD: Complaint against a real estate company (Real Estate Violation System)
• DLD: E-card verification
• DLD: Licensed real estate brokerage companies
• DLD news: advertising permits and QR codes

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a property listing in Dubai is real?

Check the advertisement permit number and QR code, compare the linked property data with the listing, verify the broker and company licence through official DLD channels, and never pay before a viewing.

How do I report a fraudulent real estate agent in Dubai?

Use the Dubai Land Department's Real Estate Violation System with supporting documents. Money and contract disputes go to the courts; also contact the police and your bank if you have paid.

How do I check if a real estate agent in Dubai is licensed?

Ask for their RERA broker registration and verify it through official Dubai Land Department channels rather than links supplied by the agent.

What is a Trakheesi permit?

It is the advertising permit number that licensed real estate adverts in Dubai should display. Check it matches the property and the agency.

How can I avoid Dubai property scams?

Verify the agent and listing, confirm title or project registration with the Dubai Land Department, pay only through regulated escrow or traceable channels and never rush a deposit.

Where should deposits for off-plan property go?

Into the registered project escrow account, not a personal account. Confirm the account details with the developer and the authorities.

Do I need a lawyer to buy property in Dubai?

It is not always required but advisable for large or complex purchases, to review contracts and verify documents.