Islamabad, June 29, 2025: In a major legal development, the Dubai Citizenship and Residency Court has fined 21 individuals Dh25.21 million over their involvement in a massive visa fraud in Dubai. The group, consisting of various nationalities, ran fake companies to exploit UAE’s residence permit system.
The convicted individuals misused the UAE’s labour and visa framework by setting up fictitious businesses that existed only on paper. These entities issued hundreds of fake residence permits to foreign workers and were later shut down, leaving many with irregular visa status.
According to Dr. Ali Humaid bin Khatem, Senior Advocate General and Head of the Citizenship and Residency Prosecution, the case was triggered by a report from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai. Investigations revealed that the companies had no legitimate operations and used forged addresses to appear authentic.
Authorities uncovered 33 such businesses, which were used to illegally secure 385 residence visas. All premises listed for these companies turned out to be fake, confirming a deliberate scam to manipulate UAE’s immigration system for profit.
Following thorough inspections and evidence collection, the accused were arrested and prosecuted. Dr. Bin Khatem stressed the UAE’s continued resolve to protect its legal system from abuse, stating that the Public Prosecution will remain vigilant against immigration and labour law violations.
This case highlights the UAE’s firm stance on visa fraud and reflects ongoing efforts to maintain the integrity of its foreign residency and employment framework.
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