How to Safely Buy or Rent a Property in Dubai: Avoiding Scams & Taking the Right Steps

Dubai’s booming real estate market is full of opportunity—whether you're buying your first home or renting a dream apartment. But as demand grows, so does the risk of scams. From fake listings to unlicensed agents, many people fall into traps that cost them money, time, and peace of mind.

This guide will walk you through how to safely buy or rent property in Dubai, spot red flags, and follow the correct process—especially if you're a first-time buyer or tenant.

Common Real Estate Scams in Dubai

Even with strong regulations in place, these are the most frequent scams reported in Dubai:

• Fake Listings: Unrealistic prices or photos used to bait people into paying deposits.
• Unlicensed Agents: Individuals posing as brokers without a valid RERA license.
• False Ownership: Sellers or landlords pretending to own a property they don’t.
• Duplicate Listings: One unit being offered to multiple buyers or tenants.
• Deposit Fraud: Being asked to pay a deposit before seeing the property or without a legal agreement.

Recently, there have been multiple scam reports involving both buyers and renters losing money due to unauthorized brokers or fake property advertisements.

How to Check and Avoid Property Scams

Whether you’re buying or renting, always take these precautions before signing or transferring any money:

1. Verify the Agent

Make sure the person you’re dealing with is a RERA-certified agent. Ask for their BRN (Broker Registration Number) and confirm it through the Dubai Land Department (DLD) website or Dubai REST app.

2. Confirm the Brokerage License

Check if the agency is licensed and has a valid ORN (Office Registration Number). Unlicensed companies cannot legally handle property transactions.

3. Research the Agent & Company Online

Check their website, Google reviews, and social media. Legitimate agencies have a strong digital presence and transparent contact details.

4. Verify the Property on DLD Platforms

Use the Dubai REST or Mashrooi app to confirm ownership, ongoing mortgages, and approved status of the property.

5. Avoid Paying to Individuals

Never send money to personal bank accounts. Deposits should go through a registered escrow account (for sales) or the licensed company’s business account (for rentals).

6. Always Sign a Legal Contract

For rentals, ensure the Ejari contract is registered. For sales, use a verified MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) and complete ownership transfer at DLD.

First-Time Buyers: Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Home in Dubai

If you’re planning to purchase your first property, follow these steps:

1. Set Your Budget & Get Mortgage Pre-Approval
2. Work with a RERA-Certified Agent
3. Visit Properties in Person
4. Negotiate & Sign the MOU
5. Pay Deposits via Escrow
6. Register the Transfer at the DLD and Get Your Title Deed

Renters: How to Secure a Property Without Getting Scammed

Renting in Dubai is common—but so are scams. Use this checklist to rent safely:

Ask for a Copy of the Title Deed

Make sure the landlord or agent is authorized to rent out the property.

Sign an Ejari-Registered Contract

Ejari is the official rental agreement platform in Dubai, and all legal leases must be registered.

Inspect the Property In Person

Never rent a unit you haven't physically seen. Photos and videos can be misleading.

Get a Proper Receipt for Any Payment

Payments should be made to the agency’s or landlord’s corporate bank account—never to an individual or in cash without a receipt.

Ask for Passport Copy and Emirates ID (if renting from individual)

This helps confirm the landlord's identity and ownership.

Final Thoughts

Dubai offers some of the most attractive real estate opportunities in the world—but with opportunity comes responsibility. Whether you’re buying or renting, staying alert and doing proper verification is the key to protecting your investment and peace of mind.

Need help verifying listings or finding trusted agents?
Baytify can guide you step-by-step—from choosing the right area to safely closing your deal.