Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Dubai, Dubayy, United Arab Emirates
1. Gold and Jewelry Scams
Be wary of offers for cheap gold or jewelry, especially in souks. Always verify the authenticity and price from reputable dealers.
- Know Your Dealer: Deal only with recognized and licensed jeweleries.
- Check Certificates: Ask for a certificate of authenticity from your dealer.
- Bargain Wisely: Bargaining is common, but be aware that very low prices may indicate fraud.
2. Tourist Taxi Scams
Avoid unlicensed taxis and negotiate fares before starting your journey.
- Use Official Taxis: Only use licensed taxis from designated ranks or book through official taxi apps.
- Negotiate Fares: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey to avoid unexpected charges.
- Avoid Unsolicited Offers: Ignore offers for taxi services from strangers or in parking lots.
3. Counterfeit Goods
Be cautious when purchasing electronics, designer clothing, and accessories from street vendors.
- Know the Original Price: Research the original prices of items to avoid overpriced or counterfeit goods.
- Shop at Reputable Stores: Purchase goods from well-established, licensed retailers.
- Look for Quality: Inspect items carefully for signs of poor quality or suspicious labels.
4. Dubai Mall Scams
Be vigilant of pickpockets in crowded areas and beware of individuals offering to help with luggage or strollers.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep your belongings close and avoid displaying valuable items.
- Stay Aware of Surroundings: Remain alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Report Suspicious Activities: Inform security personnel if you encounter any suspicious individuals or activities.
5. Fake ATM Skimmers
Be cautious when using ATMs, especially those in less frequented locations. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
- Use Bank ATMs: Prefer to use ATMs located inside banks or affiliated branches for increased security.
- Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly check your account statements for any unusual transactions.
- Use Credit Cards Wisely: Limit the use of credit cards at ATMs and opt for lower daily withdrawal limits.
6. Car Rental Scams
Thoroughly inspect rented vehicles before driving away and check contract details carefully.
- Inspect the Vehicle: Document any existing damages on the vehicle before accepting it.
- Understand Contract Terms: Read and understand all contract terms, especially concerning insurance and penalties.
- Return the Vehicle Correctly: Follow the return procedure to avoid additional charges.
7. Overcharging at Restaurants
Be aware of menu prices and clarify any service charges before ordering. Check the bill carefully before paying.
- Check Menu Prices: Verify that the prices on the menu match the items you order.
- Ask About Service Charges: Ask about any additional service charges before ordering.
- Check the Bill Thoroughly: Ensure that the bill matches your order and that no unexpected charges have been added.
8. Fake Tours and Activities
Book tours and activities through reputable tour operators or official tourism websites. Verify the authenticity of any brochures or flyers offered.
- Check Reviews: Research tour companies and read reviews before booking.
- Book Through Reputable Channels: Book through official tourism websites or reputable tour operators.
- Check for Licenses and Certifications: Ensure that the tour operator has necessary licenses and certifications.
9. Timeshare Presentations
Be wary of unsolicited invitations to timeshare presentations offering free gifts or benefits. Avoid providing personal information during these presentations.
- Decline Invitations Politely: Politely decline invitations to timeshare presentations, especially if they are unsolicited.
- Protect Personal Information: Avoid providing personal information during these presentations.
- Report Suspicious Activities: Inform hotel staff or security if you receive unwanted invitations.
10. Dubai Shopping Festival Scams
Be vigilant during shopping festivals for pickpockets and counterfeit goods. Be aware of overcrowded stores and long lines.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep your belongings close and avoid displaying valuable items during shopping festivals.
- Inspect Goods Carefully: Inspect goods carefully for signs of counterfeit or low-quality products.
- Stay Aware of Surroundings: Remain alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded stores and lines.
11. Sim Card Scams
Only purchase SIM cards from authorized retailers. Be wary of individuals offering 'cheap' SIM cards or asking for personal information.
- Purchase From Authorized Retailers: Buy SIM cards only from authorized retailers, preferably at airports or official stores.
- Provide Limited Information: Only provide necessary information when activating the SIM card and avoid sharing personal information unnecessarily.
- Monitor Usage Carefully: Keep an eye on your usage to prevent unexpected charges.
12. Street Performers and Charity Scams
Appreciate street performances, but be cautious about donating to charity collectors. Only support verified charities.
- Avoid Unsolicited Donations: Don't give money to individuals asking for charity on the street.
- Support Verified Charities: Donate only to verified charities or through official channels.
- Check for Official Certification: Look for official certification or logos on charity collection boxes and fundraising materials.
13. Dubai Fitness Challenge Scams
Be cautious during the Dubai Fitness Challenge of individuals offering 'free' fitness classes or equipment. Verify the authenticity of any offers.
- Check for Official Certification: Ensure that fitness instructors are certified and affiliated with official organizations.
- Inspect Equipment Carefully: Inspect fitness equipment for signs of wear or damage before using it.
- Stay Aware of Surroundings: Remain alert and aware of your surroundings during group activities to avoid any unexpected issues.
14. Expo 2020 Dubai Scams
Be cautious during Expo 2020 of individuals offering 'free' tickets or merchandise. Only purchase from authorized channels.
- Purchase From Authorized Channels: Buy tickets and merchandise only from authorized Expo 2020 outlets.
- Avoid Unsolicited Offers: Decline unsolicited offers of free tickets or merchandise.
- Stay Aware of Surroundings: Remain alert and aware of your surroundings during your visit to the Expo.
15. Dubai Metro Scams
Avoid giving money to individuals offering help on the Dubai Metro. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Secure Your Belongings: Keep your belongings close and avoid displaying valuable items.
- Stay Aware of Surroundings: Remain alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Ignore Unsolicited Offers: Ignore unsolicited offers or help from strangers on the Dubai Metro.