UAE Staycation Scam Alert: ‘AED100 per Night’ Deals Likely Fraudulent, Police Warn

The residents in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been lured by unbelievable offers on social media platforms and classified websites. Surprisingly, these advertisers are offering a promising luxury staycation for as low as Dhs 100. However, customer experts and policy are now warning about the UAE staycation scam. 

As the holiday season approaches, online fraudsters are interestingly targeting unsuspecting holidaymakers with fake staycation and travel offers across the UAE.  As we told you before, they are asking for the unbeatable prices that are too good to be true. 

Today, we will talk about the growing threats of these scams. In addition, we will give you some tips that you can use to be safe from such fraud. Moreover, we will talk about the tactics that you can use to spot these scams. 

Rising Threat of Online UAE Staycation Scams 

The hospitality sector in the UAE is one of the popular industries due to its top-notch hotels and resorts. Moreover, it attracts tourists and residents throughout the world. However, scammers are destroying this industry by promoting fraudulent staycation deals, particularly through social media platforms. 

 Ras Al Khamirah police are warning residents related to the rise of fake online ads that market vacation rentals that never exist. These deals are mostly from unverified social media pages and websites. However, fraudsters designed the deal in a way to share personal and financial details. 

How Scammers Operate

Nowadays, fraudsters are using advertising techniques on social media platforms, like Facebook, Instagram, and Telegram groups. Ras Al Khaimah police shared that these fraudulent ads often pop up on social media platforms that include beautiful villas with pools and scenic views at unbelievable prices.  Surprisingly, they are asking for as low as DHs 100 for a night. 

Notably, fraudsters are running professional scams behind these attractive deals for staycations. According to the police, “cybercriminals steal the actual photos and videos of the luxury houses. Later, they edit them to make them look like a real and fresh rental listing. Then, they share the edited videos and photos through the fake accounts on the social media platforms and fake links.”

According to the Ras Al Khaimah police, “these offers might look amazing, but they are too good to be true”. The police further said, “Scammers are targeting people who trust what they see online and act quickly without verifying the source.” 

Tips to be safe from the UAE’s staycation scam

There is no doubt that the staycation scams in the UAE are gradually increasing. Moreover, cybercriminals are using techniques that are hard to spot. However, the Ras Al Khaimah police have shared some tips to prevent these scams. Below is the list of those tips:

1. You should take your time to read the comments or reviews on the listing. Often, previous victims leave warnings about the scams. If many people report a similar experience, it’s a sign of a scam.
2. You should use Google Maps to look at the property to see if it actually exists. In addition, it would be best to check the photos and see if the listed photos match with it. If the photos are different or the location doesn’t exist, it is a red flag. 
3. You should book from the popular and well-known platforms. Moreover, it would be best to prevent sending money through chats, personal messages, and fraudulent links. 
4. You should take your time and never rush to grab the deal because fraudsters often use the phrase “limited-period offer”. Moreover, you should be careful of a message or link from a stranger. If possible, talk to the property owner or visit the location before paying. 

Scams Are Spreading Beyond Staycations

Besides staycation, scams are also spreading in other areas, like fake airlines, concert passes, support event tickets, etc. So, you are advised to be careful and use the official website. It would be helpful to use the payment methods that offer refunds. In addition, you should avoid making payments without legal backing. 

Police said, “We are working to stop the fraud. However, the best security starts with the public staying on alert and asking questions before making payment or clicking the link.” 

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