How to avoid tourist scams in Dubai: Essential tips

Ever had a “friendly stranger” in Dubai offer you a free tour—only to empty your wallet? While Dubai is one of the safest cities globally, even paradise has pickpockets. From counterfeit gold to phantom parking fines, scammers here blend slick tactics with warm smiles. But fear not—arm yourself with these local secrets to outsmart the hustle and enjoy Dubai’s magic scam-free.

GOLD SOUK DEIRA: THE FAKE GOLD TRAP

Dubai’s Gold Souk dazzles with window displays, but some shops sell “22K” gold that’s lighter than a politician’s promise. Scammers target tourists with “discounted” jewelry lacking Dubai Central Lab’s purity stamp. Always ask for a receipt with the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) certification. Pro tip: Use a magnet—real gold won’t stick. If pressured, walk out; haggling is normal, but threats aren’t.

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DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: THE UNMARKED TAXI SCAM

After landing, avoid drivers near Arrivals shouting “Taxi! Cheap fare!” Unmarked cars charge 3x regular rates. Official Dubai Taxi cars are cream-colored with rooftop lights. Check the driver’s ID card—it’s mandatory. A ride to Downtown should cost ~80 AED, not 250 AED. The www.few.ae editor recommends booking via RTA Dubai app for fixed prices.

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KARAMA MARKET: THE COUNTERFEIT SOUVENIR STING

Karama’s alleys overflow with “authentic” Persian carpets and “discounted” designer bags. Most are fakes. Vendors may claim, “Gucci? Yes, original!” but UAE law fines buyers up to 2,000 AED for counterfeit purchases. Look for hologram price tags—real brands use them. Bargain hard; a “3,000 AED” carpet should drop to 500 AED.

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DESERT TOURS: THE VANISHING TOUR OPERATOR

You book a 150 AED desert safari online, but the van never arrives. Scammers clone legitimate websites like Arabian Adventures. Verify licenses via Dubai Department of Tourism (DET) portal. Legit companies demand deposits via credit card, not cash. If a deal seems too good, it’s a mirage.

Common pickup points: Mall of the Emirates Bus Station, Deira City Center.

SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD: THE FAKE POLICE SHAKEDOWN

A man in a “police uniform” flashes a badge, demanding your passport for “verification.” Real UAE police never ask tourists for passports on the street. Politely decline and call 901 (Dubai Police hotline) to report. Scammers often target metro stations like BurJuman.

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DUBAI MALL: THE “FREE” SIM CARD TRICK

Kiosks near the Dubai Fountain offer “free” SIM cards. But hidden clauses lock you into 500 AED/month plans. Etisalat and Du are the only legal providers. Buy SIMs at official stores inside the mall. The www.few.ae editor warns: Never share your Emirates ID for “registration” outside stores.

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METRO STATIONS: THE OVERHELPFUL NOL CARD SCAM

At metro ticket machines, “helpers” offer to top up your Nol card—then swap it with an empty one. Load cards yourself or use the RTA app. A 1-day pass costs 22 AED; anyone charging more is scamming.

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JUMEIRAH BEACH: THE PHOTOGRAPHER PITFALL

A charming photographer offers “free” photos, then demands 300 AED to delete them. Public photography is legal, but consent matters. If harassed, alert beach security (blue kiosks every 200m). Pro tip: Carry a mini water camera—they’ll leave you alone.

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AL FAHIDI HISTORIC DISTRICT: THE “MUSEUM ENTRANCE FEE” LIE

Touts near Al Fahidi Fort claim, “Museum closed! Pay me for special entry.” Dubai Museum tickets cost 3 AED, sold only inside. Ignore anyone charging 50 AED.

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DUBAI MARINA: THE FAKE YACHT PARTY INVITE

Flyers promote “exclusive” yacht parties for 100 AED. You pay, but the boat doesn’t exist. Book through certified agencies like Xclusive Yachts. Real sunset cruises start at 200 AED. Check for DTCM licenses on promoters’ websites.

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GLOBAL VILLAGE: THE RIGGED GAMES SCAM

Carnival games here promise iPads for 20 AED—but the rings are too small or darts rigged. Staff may “win” easily to lure you. Stick to shopping; if you play, ask to test the game first.

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ATMs NEAR DEIRA: THE CARD SKIMMER RISK

Standalone ATMs in Deira’s side streets often have skimmers. Use machines inside banks like Emirates NBD. Cover your PIN and check for loose card slots. If your card is swallowed, call your bank instantly.

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DUBAI FRAME: THE FAKE TICKET RESELLERS

Touts outside Dubai Frame sell “discounted” tickets for 40 AED (real price: 50 AED). The tickets are expired or fake. Buy online via Smart Dubai portal or at the counter.

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NIGHTCLUBS: THE DRINK SPIKING TRAP

Clubs like White Dubai attract scammer groups who spike drinks to steal Rolexes. Stick to sealed bottles and watch your glass. If dizzy, approach security—they’ll escort you to a clinic.

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DUBAI HOLIDAY RENTALS: THE PHANTOM APARTMENT

You book a Burj Khalifa-view flat on Airbnb, but the “host” sends you to a different building. Verify listings with Dubai Tourism’s holiday home permits (HHT license). Meet the host in person before paying.

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THE BOTTOM LINE: TRUST YOUR GUT

Dubai’s scams rely on distraction and urgency. If someone rushes you, walk away. Use RFID-blocking wallets for credit cards. Save Dubai Police’s number (901) on speed dial. As the www.few.ae editor says, “Scammers here are artists—don’t be their canvas.” Stay sharp, and let Dubai’s wonders outshine the cons.

Things to do in Dubai / Things to do in Abu Dhabi