UAE staycation for Dh100 a night? It’s most likely a scam
Online scammers are targeting holidaymakers with fake deals, warn Ras Al Khaimah Police.
Ras Al Khaimah: Looking for a dreamy summer escape at a bargain price? Be careful — what looks like a relaxing villa or farm stay could end up being a costly scam.
Ras Al Khaimah Police are warning residents about a rise in fake online ads promoting vacation rentals that don’t exist. These ads often pop up on social media, offering beautiful villas with pools and scenic views for unbelievably low prices — sometimes as little as Dh100 a night.
But behind these eye-catching deals are cybercriminals running professional scams. According to police, the fraudsters steal real videos and photos of luxury homes, edit them to look like fresh rental listings, and share them through fake accounts and shady links.
“These offers might look amazing, but they’re usually too good to be true,” said Ras Al Khaimah Police. “Scammers count on people trusting what they see online — and acting quickly without checking the source.”
To help protect the public, police shared four simple tips:
Check the comments – Read what others have said about the listing. Reviews and warnings from past victims can help you spot trouble.
Use Google Maps – Look up the property to see if it actually exists and matches the photos. Big differences are a red flag.
Stick to trusted sites – Book only through well-known, official platforms. Never send money through private chats, personal messages, or sketchy links.
Take your time – Don’t rush into deals. Be careful with messages from unknown numbers or links from strangers. If possible, talk to the property owner or visit in person before paying.
Police also said similar scams are showing up in other areas, like fake airline tickets, concert passes, and sports event deals — all priced just low enough to lure in victims.
Their advice? Stay cautious. Stick to official websites. Use secure payment methods that offer refunds. And avoid bank transfers or cash payments without legal backing.
“We’re working hard to stop cyber fraud,” police said, “but the best protection starts with the public staying alert and asking questions before clicking or paying.”
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