Most landlords and agents in Dubai are honest — but every year people lose money to fake rental ads. The good news: almost every scam fails if you do these simple checks before you pay anything.

Warning signs

The rent is much cheaper than similar units in the same building

The "owner" is abroad and can't show you the apartment

You are asked to pay a deposit to "hold" the unit before viewing

Pressure: "many people want it, pay today"

Payment by cash transfer, crypto or to a personal account that is not the owner's

The ad has no permit number or QR code

9 checks before you pay

1. Check the ad's DLD permit

In Dubai, every property ad must show a valid DLD advertising permit with a QR code. Scan it — it should open the official DLD page with the same property and the same agency. Every listing on [alfirouz.com](/rent) shows its permit.

2. Check the agent and agency

A real broker has a RERA broker card and works for a licensed agency. Ask for the broker card number and the agency's licence (ORN) and check they match.

3. Always view the property first

Never pay for a unit you have not seen in person (or on a live video call where the agent walks through the actual unit). Use our [property viewing checklist](/tools/property-viewing-checklist).

4. Ask for the title deed and owner's ID

The landlord (or agency) should show you a copy of the title deed and the owner's ID. The name must match the person you are dealing with — or there must be a power of attorney or a written authorisation from the owner to the agency.

5. Pay only to the owner or the licensed agency

Rent cheques go to the owner named on the title deed (or the owner's registered company). Never to an agent's personal account. Read [how rent cheques work](/blog/dubai-rent-cheques-explained).

6. Use the official tenancy contract

Dubai uses the official unified tenancy contract. Do not accept a handwritten or "simple" agreement. You can see the format with our [tenancy contract tool](/tools/tenancy-contract-generator).

7. Register the contract in Ejari

Ejari registration makes your tenancy official with the government. A fake landlord cannot register Ejari for a property they do not own — so if someone avoids Ejari, walk away. See our [Ejari guide](/blog/ejari-dubai-complete-guide).

8. Get receipts for everything

Every deposit, cheque and fee should have a written receipt with the company name, amount and date.

9. Check the price against real listings

If a deal looks too good, compare it with real listings in the same area — for example our live [JVC rent prices](/blog/jvc-rent-prices-2026).

What to do if you were scammed

Report it to Dubai Police (in person or via the Dubai Police app / eCrime service)

Report the fake ad to the website or social media platform where you saw it

If a licensed broker was involved, you can also complain to the Dubai Land Department (DLD)

Rent safely with Al Firouz

Al Firouz Real Estate is a licensed Dubai agency based in JVC. Every listing has a valid DLD permit, you view before you pay, rent is paid to the owner, and we register your Ejari. Browse [homes for rent](/rent) or message us on WhatsApp.

How to Avoid Rental Scams in Dubai: 9 Checks Before You Pay (2026)