Dubai acts against social media accounts promoting unauthorised visa services

The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (Iqama Dubai), represented by the Search and Investigation Department within the Violators and Foreigners Follow-up Sector, revealed that it has addressed violations detected on social media platforms. These violations involved promoting unauthorized services related to visa and residency procedures. This action is part of its ongoing efforts to protect community members and raise awareness about the importance of relying on official channels for obtaining services.

Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, affirmed that protecting community members and enhancing trust in the government services system are strategic priorities for Iqama Dubai. He pointed out that combating illegal practices and entities promoting unauthorized services is part of its commitment to safeguarding customer rights and ensuring they receive services through official and approved channels. This aligns with Dubai's approach to providing proactive and digital government services that contribute to enhancing quality of life and establishing a safe and reliable service environment.

Major General Dr. Ali bin Ajif Al Zaabi, Assistant Director General of the Violators and Foreigners Follow-up Sector at Dubai Immigration, stated that investigation and search teams immediately initiated follow-up and verification procedures upon receiving information about these practices. Meticulous monitoring and verification operations were conducted to ascertain the nature of the violations and the entities responsible before taking the necessary measures.

He added that the follow-up operations revealed that some entities were promoting unauthorized services related to visa and residency procedures through digital platforms. This could lead to the exploitation of individuals or the dissemination of inaccurate information about official procedures. He emphasized that, in coordination with the relevant authorities and in accordance with established legal procedures, these practices were addressed and the necessary actions were taken.

He stressed that Dubai Immigration continues to enhance its readiness to protect the entry and residency system and to address any illegal practices in a manner that safeguards rights and preserves community security.

Dubai Immigration urged all members of the community to obtain visa and residency services only through official and authorized channels and to avoid being misled by unreliable advertisements or offers on digital platforms. It also stressed the importance of verifying service providers before sharing personal data or making any payments. She also stressed the importance of continuing cooperation and reporting any illegal practices related to entry and residency services, noting that raising community awareness is a fundamental pillar for protecting individuals’ rights and ensuring they receive reliable and safe services, which supports Dubai’s efforts to establish an integrated government system that meets the aspirations of society.