Eid Al Adha in UAE: Common online scams you should be wary of

Abu Dhabi Police and the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department have warned citizens and residents about a surge in online fraud during Eid Al Adha, a period increasingly exploited by scammers.

These individuals take advantage of the festive spirit and the public’s interest in attractive deals and discounts. Recently, fraudulent schemes have surfaced targeting those seeking Eid-related goods and services, including sacrificial livestock, sheep and cattle sales, and even “fake banquets”.

These scams typically involve the publication of deceptive promotional advertisements through fake websites and social media platforms, offering various Eid products and services, such as meat, sweets, catering, and event planning. The fraud has also extended to travel and tourism packages for the holiday period, involving bogus offers on airline tickets, sporting events, and concerts, all at suspiciously low prices, with the ultimate goal of defrauding unsuspecting victims.

Authorities have highlighted that these scams exploit social customs, with recent tactics including fake “Eid sacrifice” sales and misleading offers for catering services that appear especially attractive during the festive season. Victims often only realise they have been defrauded on the day of the event, when no services or goods arrive and the scammers disappear without a trace.

The authorities have urged the public to rely exclusively on official and trusted sales channels, avoid being enticed by unrealistic offers, and use secure payment methods that allow for potential recovery of funds. They strongly discouraged the use of bank transfers or cash payments, which offer no legal recourse in the event of fraud.

The authorities emphasised the importance of being wary of suspicious links and unverified text messages, encouraging the use of official apps for events and services. They confirmed that efforts to combat online fraud are ongoing, alongside campaigns to raise public awareness.

The Cyber Security Council pointed out how easy it was for fraudsters to create fake accounts on social media platforms, using only temporary phone numbers or free email addresses. Some scammers even employ apps and websites that provide one-time-use virtual numbers, enabling them to activate accounts without revealing their true identity.

The council noted that many of these fraudulent accounts are operated with a high degree of professionalism, utilising fabricated content, attractive designs, and fake comments that give an illusion of credibility and engagement – making it difficult for the average user to discern their authenticity.

A statement on the council’s official online platform warned against being misled by the mere presence of verification badges on social media accounts, as such verification can be purchased and does not reflect the reputation or reliability of the seller. The council stressed the importance of using officially recognised platforms within the UAE to avoid falling victim to scams.

The council also urged the public to avoid dealing with anonymous or unverified accounts and to verify the legitimacy of advertised commercial activities on digital platforms. Suspicious accounts should be promptly reported to help protect others and prevent further incidents.

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department warned the public about falling prey to online scams, especially during festive periods. It identified three common fraud tactics used via social media: shopping on untrustworthy websites, misleading ads selling fake event tickets, and disclosing personal data in response to fake job postings.

Fraudsters begin by advertising fake websites on social media platforms, offering products at significantly discounted prices. Payments are typically requested via bank transfers or cards, and once a few sales are made, the sites vanish without a trace.

The department attributed public vulnerability to three main factors: Lack of awareness about how to verify website legitimacy; misuse of the internet and visiting unsecured websites; and the desire to obtain products at the lowest possible prices.

It warned that dealing with unreliable websites could lead to the theft of personal data, receiving counterfeit goods, or not receiving any goods at all – resulting in financial loss.

Authorities outlined four precautionary measures to help prevent online fraud:

The department issued a specific warning via its official X account against being lured by deceptive advertisements offering fake event tickets at discounted prices. These fraudulent outlets disappear after collecting payments.

Security and legal authorities cautioned against engaging with social media accounts claiming to offer high-end catering services or VIP event packages. These scammers typically request a 50 percent deposit upfront and demand the remaining balance on the eve of the event – only to vanish before delivering any services.

Fraudsters create an Instagram account under a name known for catering excellence, using it to advertise lavish banquets at competitive prices. When a victim contacts them via WhatsApp, they are convinced to book a “VIP buffet” for up to 50 guests at a cost of Dh10,000. An initial deposit of Dh4,000 is requested, along with detailed questions to give the impression of professionalism (e.g. menu options, number of staff, need for tables and chairs).

The day before the event, the scammer follows up and insists on immediate payment of the remaining amount to finalise the order. Once the balance is paid, all communication ceases – no services are delivered, and the account disappears. Attempts to contact the seller fail, revealing the scam.

Economic experts have confirmed that online scammers now succeed in 50-70 percent of cases, exploiting public unawareness and consumers’ eagerness to chase the lowest prices without verifying service legitimacy.

They warn that common fraud strategies include promoting home-based businesses, fake catering services, or selling sacrificial animals – often through unverified accounts that impersonate well-known brands. Victims are asked to pay a 50 percent deposit via bank transfer, ostensibly to secure their order.

A day before the service or product is due, the victim receives a message demanding full payment or face cancellation. Once the full amount is paid, the account disappears and the service is never rendered.

Experts and legal professionals estimate that roughly 50 percent of the accounts advertising home projects or food services on social media are fake – often impersonating licensed restaurants or kitchens, despite having no real presence or official registration. These accounts are typically run using unregistered phone numbers.

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department has reiterated its warning against dealing with fake or untrusted websites promoted through social media, urging the public to remain vigilant. Anyone who falls victim to online fraud is advised to immediately report the incident by calling 8002626.