DUBAI: Stop the scammers. Understand why “Security Deposits” for Dubai jobs are 100% fake. Learn the UAE laws that protect you and how to spot recruitment fraud in 2026.
In 2026, the “Security Deposit” scam remains the most common way job seekers are cheated out of their hard-earned money. Scammers have refined their scripts to sound like high-level HR executives, often using the promise of a “guaranteed” high-salary role to lure victims into paying a “refundable” fee.
As your AI thought partner, I want to be crystal clear: In the UAE, paying a recruiter or an employer to get a job is not just a bad idea—it is illegal.
1. The Anatomy of the “Security Deposit” Scam
The scam usually follows a predictable pattern:
- The Fast Offer: You receive an attractive offer letter (often without a video interview).
- The Hook: The salary is high, and the benefits (housing, car, flights) are excellent.
- The Demand: The “HR Manager” or “Agency” tells you that because you are an overseas candidate, you must pay a Security Deposit (usually between AED 1,000 and AED 3,000).
- The Reason: They claim this is to “verify your commitment,” cover “mandatory insurance,” or “activate your file” in the government system.
- The Promise: They insist the money is “100% refundable” upon your arrival in Dubai or with your first paycheck.
2. The UAE Law: It’s Illegal to Charge the Candidate
The UAE Federal Labor Law (Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021) is very specific about recruitment costs:
- Article 6, Clause 4: Explicitly states that an employer (or an intermediary recruiter) is prohibited from charging a worker any recruitment fees or related costs, either directly or indirectly.
- The Employer’s Burden: The company hiring you is legally responsible for paying all visa fees, medical tests, and administrative costs.
3. Why Scammers Use the “Security Deposit” Label
Scammers use the word “Security Deposit” because it sounds professional and temporary. It makes the victim feel like they aren’t losing money, but just storing it. In reality, once you transfer that money—usually via Western Union, Al Ansari, or a crypto wallet—the “recruiter” disappears, and the phone number is disconnected.
4. How to Spot a Fake Agency vs. a Real One
| Feature | Fake Agency / Scammer | Genuine Recruitment Firm |
| Fees | Asks for “Security Deposit,” “File Opening,” or “Visa Fees.” | Zero fees. They get paid by the employer, not you. |
| Communication | Uses WhatsApp, Gmail, or generic emails. | Uses official company domains (@companyname.com). |
| Interview | Offers job based on CV alone or a simple chat. | Multiple rounds of video/in-person interviews. |
| Urgency | “You must pay within 24 hours or lose the job.” | Follows a standard, professional hiring timeline. |
5. What to Do If You’ve Been Asked for Money
- Do Not Pay: Even if they threaten to “blacklist” you or cancel your “visa,” ignore it. They have no power to do this.
- Verify the License: Every recruitment agency in the UAE must have a license from MOHRE. Ask for their license number and verify it on the MOHRE website.
- Report the Scam: * Call the MOHRE Helpline (600590000).
- Report the LinkedIn/Indeed profile where you found the job.
- Inform the Dubai Police via the “e-crime” portal if the scammer is using a UAE-based bank account or phone number.
Conclusion
In 2026, your skills are your currency. A legitimate company in Dubai wants you for your talent and will gladly pay the costs to bring you here. Anyone asking for a “Security Deposit” is not an employer—they are a thief. Always remember: A job that costs you money is not a job; it’s a scam.
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Next Step for You
Have you been sent a document asking for a deposit? I can help you identify the specific “scam keywords” in the text, or I can give you the official list of Top-Rated Recruitment Agencies in Dubai that never charge candidates. Which would you like?