How can I protect myself from rental scams?

Check the advertisement’s Madmoun QR code and make sure it opens an official Dubai Land Department page with details matching the listing. Verify the agent’s broker card through Dubai REST and confirm their brokerage. These checks help establish the advert and agent’s credentials, but do not replace checking ownership and authority for the specific property.

View the actual unit, or have someone you trust inspect it. Verify the title deed through DLD and match the owner’s identity with the tenancy documents. If someone is signing for the owner, check their official power of attorney and whether it covers the proposed transaction. Having keys or permission to advertise does not automatically establish authority to sign or collect rent. backoffice.dubailand.gov.ae

Before paying, get the full rental terms, charges and deposit refund conditions in writing. Confirm payment instructions through an independently verified contact, especially if bank details suddenly change. Check the account beneficiary, avoid blank cheques or incomplete agreements, and obtain a receipt identifying the property and purpose of every payment.

Pause if viewings are refused, documents do not match, the price seems unusually low or you are pressured to pay immediately. Keep copies of the advert, correspondence, documents and receipts. If you suspect fraud after paying, contact your bank promptly to ask whether the payment can be stopped or recalled, and report the matter through official police channels.