How to Verify a Property Listing in Dubai for Authenticity: A 2025 Guide to Avoid Rental Scams

Tuesday, 22 April 2025

As Dubai’s real estate market continues to soar in 2025, the demand for rental properties is expected to rise by 10%, driven by a rapidly growing population and a vibrant expat community. While this growth offers incredible opportunities for renters, it has also opened the door for increasingly sophisticated rental scams. In fact, reports show a 15% increase in fraudulent listings over the past year alone—making it more important than ever to verify a property’s legitimacy before signing a lease.

If you’re looking to rent in Dubai this year, this guide offers essential tips to help you avoid scams and ensure you’re dealing with genuine landlords and verified property listings.

Table of Contents

• Why Rental Scams Are on the Rise in Dubai
• Common Rental Scam Techniques to Watch For
• 5 Crucial Steps to Verify a Property Listing in Dubai
• Red Flags That Signal a Scam
• Government Measures to Combat Rental Fraud
• Why a Property Management Company Can Be a Game-Changer
• Stay One Step Ahead
• Frequently asked questions

Why Rental Scams Are on the Rise in Dubai

Dubai’s evolving property landscape has made it easier for fraudsters to exploit unsuspecting renters. Here are some key factors contributing to the growing number of rental scams:

• High Competition and Urgency: With rental prices climbing, scammers take advantage of renters eager to secure a deal fast.
• Online-Centric Transactions: As most deals now begin online, it’s become easier to create fake listings that look authentic.
• Lack of Awareness: Many renters—especially newcomers—are unfamiliar with the verification process and fall victim due to knowledge gaps.

Common Rental Scam Techniques to Watch For

Scammers use a range of deceptive tactics to trick renters. The most common ones include:

• Too-Good-to-Be-True Listings: Unrealistically low prices designed to attract quick interest.
• Fake Landlord or Agent Profiles: Individuals posing as property owners or agents without proper documentation.
• Advance Payment Demands: Asking for deposits or rent upfront before a viewing or agreement.
• Cloned Listings: Fraudsters copy genuine ads but insert their own contact details to collect payments.

5 Crucial Steps to Verify a Property Listing in Dubai

To safeguard yourself against scams, follow these proven steps:

1. Use the RERA-Approved Dubai Rest App

Every legitimate rental property in Dubai must be registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Agency (RERA). You can use the Dubai Rest app—a platform by the Dubai Land Department—to confirm property details, check landlord information, and ensure the listing is valid.

2. Ask for the Title Deed

A genuine property owner should be able to provide a title deed. Ensure the name on the deed matches the person you’re dealing with. If you’re speaking to an agent, ask for their RERA broker ID and verify their license on the DLD website.

3. Physically Inspect the Property

Never finalize a rental agreement without seeing the property in person. Scammers typically avoid in-person meetings or offer excuses to prevent visits. A walkthrough lets you confirm the property exists and matches the listing’s description.

4. Avoid Untraceable Payment Methods

Always opt for secure, traceable payment methods such as bank transfers. Avoid cash payments or using informal channels, and always request a signed receipt for any transactions made.

5. Check Ejari Registration

Ensure your tenancy contract is registered with Ejari, Dubai’s official rental agreement system. You can check this via the Dubai Rest app or by contacting the DLD directly. An Ejari-registered contract provides legal protection and verifies the legitimacy of your rental.

Red Flags That Signal a Scam

Keep an eye out for these warning signs:

• Offers priced well below market rates.
• Pressure tactics urging you to pay immediately.
• Refusal to share ID, license, or ownership documents.
• A lease that isn’t registered through Ejari.

Government Measures to Combat Rental Fraud

The Dubai Land Department has ramped up efforts to tackle rental scams, including tougher penalties for unregistered agents and mandatory Ejari registration for all tenancy agreements. Moreover, AI tools are now being used to detect and remove fake listings from major platforms—leading to a 20% drop in scam complaints last year.

Why a Property Management Company Can Be a Game-Changer

Hiring a trusted property management firm can eliminate much of the risk. These professionals handle the entire rental process, ensuring each step—from listing verification to contract signing—is in line with legal standards.

When choosing a company, make sure to:

• Confirm they are RERA-licensed.
• Read reviews and customer feedback.
• Ask about their process for vetting listings and landlords.

Stay One Step Ahead

As Dubai’s rental scene continues to grow, so does the importance of staying informed. Regularly check updates from the Dubai Land Department, use official platforms like Dubai Rest, and never rush into a deal without verifying every detail.

In 2025, renting a property in Dubai requires more than just finding the right home—it’s about making sure that home is real and the deal is secure. By using Dubai’s regulatory tools, asking the right questions, and working with licensed professionals, you can confidently avoid scams and find a place that truly feels like home.