Scam in United Arab EmiratesOther tricks
Fake gift from a Sheikh in United Arab Emirates
How it works
An unexpected message or automated call claims that a Sheikh has chosen to give you free money.
Warning signs
- A stranger says a Sheikh has selected you for a cash gift.
- The offer arrives through an unexpected message or automated call.
How to avoid it
- Treat unsolicited offers of free money with caution.
- Do not pay to receive a promised gift.
- Do not share bank details or security codes.
- Ignore and block the sender.
If it happens to you
- Move to a safe place. Avoid an argument or confrontation.
- Stop further payments and contact. Do not pay anyone who promises to recover your money for a fee.
- If a card or account is affected, contact your bank or card issuer immediately. Ask about blocking access and disputing payments.
- Save receipts, messages, screenshots, payment records and any vehicle details. Write down what happened while you remember it.
- Report fraud or theft to the police. In Dubai, call 999 if you need police attention.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need help replacing travel documents.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- News2020Facebook scam impersonates Emirati royal familyAFP documents fake Facebook posts claiming Sheikh Hamdan was distributing cash gifts and directing people to an advertising-filled registration website.Read on News
- News2018SMS scam warning for UAE residentsThe UAE Telecommunications Regulatory Authority warns about fraudulent SMS messages claiming association with a Sheikh Hamdan initiative and requesting a private verification code.Read on News
Questions
What is the fake gift from a Sheikh scam in United Arab Emirates?
An unexpected message or automated call claims that a Sheikh has chosen to give you free money.
How can I spot it early?
A stranger says a Sheikh has selected you for a cash gift. The offer arrives through an unexpected message or automated call.
How do I avoid fake gift from a Sheikh in United Arab Emirates?
Treat unsolicited offers of free money with caution. Do not pay to receive a promised gift. Do not share bank details or security codes. Ignore and block the sender.
Where in United Arab Emirates does this happen?
Phone messages and automated voice calls It has been reported in Abu Dhabi.
How common is this scam in United Arab Emirates?
Occasional. The United Arab Emirates has low crime overall, and the scams described here are mainly shopping pressure, taxi overcharging and phone fraud. Watch for missing change, extra VAT added to a quoted price, off-meter taxi fares and unexpected calls promising money or claiming legal trouble.
Are there similar scams in United Arab Emirates?
Yes: fake lottery win.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report fraud or theft and provide any evidence you saved. In Dubai, call 999 if you need police attention. Bank or card issuer: use its official app or the contact number on your card to report unauthorised payments, block a card or ask about a dispute. Taxi booking service: if you booked through an app, report the fare problem through that booking and keep the trip record. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport or replacement travel documents.
What number do I call in an emergency in United Arab Emirates?
Police attention in Dubai: 999.
Reviewed by @snuck