The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has renewed its warning to families against fraudulent advertisements offering domestic worker recruitment services through social media, as scammers increasingly exploit household needs with unusually low prices and promises of fast processing.

A report published by Emarat Al Youm identified six major reasons why families fall victim to such schemes. These include the desire to save money, urgent household needs, easy access to online advertisements, difficulty distinguishing licensed agencies from fraudulent intermediaries, the belief that direct arrangements are faster, and pressure to make immediate payments.

The ministry reported that approximately 430 social media accounts were shut down in cooperation with the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority between January 2025 and June 2026. Of these, 200 accounts were closed during the first half of 2026 for promoting domestic worker recruitment and employment services without the necessary authorization.

The report highlighted cases in which families lost thousands or even tens of thousands of dirhams after transferring money for supposed reservations, recruitment procedures, or delivery fees. Some victims discovered that the promised workers did not exist or that the advertisers had disappeared after receiving payment.

Legal specialists warned that fraudsters may impersonate legitimate recruitment agencies by using similar business names, branding, and apparently professional advertisements. Requests for transfers to personal bank accounts are another significant warning sign, and fraudulent conduct may result in criminal penalties under UAE law.

Authorities have urged residents and citizens to verify the licensing status of domestic worker recruitment agencies through official ministry channels before signing agreements or making payments. Families should also avoid sharing personal or banking information with unverified accounts and remain cautious of offers demanding immediate action.

The ministry encourages the public to report misleading advertisements and unlicensed recruitment activities through its customer service number, 600590000. Families can also consult the ministry’s official website for information about approved recruitment offices and authorized services.

Source: Emarat Al Youm and the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.