Large-Scale Visa Fraud Uncovered in Dubai

21 Convicted in Dubai for Visa Fraud - Manipulating with Fake Companies

In one of Dubai's largest visa fraud cases, twenty-one individuals of various nationalities were convicted, resulting in a total fine of 25.21 million dirhams for significant violations of current immigration and labor laws. The Dubai Citizenship and Residency Affairs Court delivered its verdict following a comprehensive investigation that highlighted systemic abuses of employee visa processes.

Fake Company Network Used for Visa Acquisition

The defendants operated a well-organized fraudulent network, creating fictitious businesses solely to obtain visas for foreign nationals. These enterprises never conducted any real economic activities: the 'headquarters' were either non-existent or nominal, and permits were requested using false addresses.

Once the visas were obtained, the businesses were swiftly shut down, leaving workers without resolved residency statuses or unpaid wages.

Collaboration between GDRFA and Prosecutors

The case was uncovered by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai through thorough monitoring and on-site inspections. The registered headquarters of the suspicious companies were checked multiple times, revealing they did not actually exist.

Following the arrests, the Citizenship and Residency Prosecution carried out further investigations, collecting all evidence necessary for prosecution. It was revealed during the proceedings that the fraudsters used a total of 33 company names for illegal purposes and unlawfully requested a total of 385 residency visas.

Prioritizing Labor Market Protection

Authorities emphasized that such cases not only complicate the lives of the affected workers but also severely compromise the labor market's integrity and security. The prosecution underlined its commitment to ongoing collaboration with all relevant bodies to prevent similar abuses and maintain social stability.

Zero Tolerance Towards Illegal Visa Transactions

Dubai authorities have long enforced strict measures to curb illegal residencies, employment, and document forgery. The swift and effective response to such large-scale cases sends a clear message: there is zero tolerance for any attempts to circumvent the immigration system.

Conclusion

This case is another example of Dubai's commitment to transparency, legal compliance, and labor market protection. The conviction of the 21 individuals serves as a warning to those considering similar abuses: detection is inevitable, and the consequences are severe. Authorities continue to make every effort to identify fraudulent activities to preserve the internationally recognized legal security and economic stability of the city.

(Source: Announcement from the Dubai Citizenship and Residency Court.)