Dubai Residency controls illegal practices for exploiting visa procedures on social media platforms

The General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (Dubai Residency), represented by the Research and Investigation Department of the Violators and Foreigners Follow-up Sector, said it has addressed violating practices on social media platforms involving the promotion of unapproved services related to visa and residency procedures. The move comes as part of its ongoing efforts to protect community members and raise awareness of the importance of using official channels to obtain services.His Excellency Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of Dubai Residency, said that protecting community members and strengthening confidence in the government services system is a strategic priority. He noted that addressing illegal practices or entities promoting unapproved services is part of ensuring the protection of customers’ rights and their access to services through approved official channels, in line with Dubai’s approach to providing digital and proactive government services that enhance quality of life and support 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 Residency, said specialized teams continuously monitor any practices that may affect the integrity of procedures or exploit individuals seeking residency services, and take immediate action in accordance with approved legal procedures.He said research and investigation teams initiated follow-up and verification procedures upon receiving information about these practices. Monitoring and verification operations were conducted to determine the nature of the violations and identify the parties responsible before taking the necessary measures. Findings showed that some entities promoted unapproved services related to visa and residency procedures through digital platforms, which could lead to the exploitation of individuals or the spread of inaccurate information about official procedures.He added that, in coordination with the relevant authorities and in line with approved legal procedures, these practices were addressed and the necessary measures were taken, reflecting Dubai Residency’s commitment to protecting customers’ rights and promoting compliance with official channels and regulations governing entry and residency services.Major General Dr. Ali bin Ajif Al Zaabi said Dubai Residency continues to strengthen its readiness to protect the entry and residency system and address illegal practices in a way that preserves rights and community security, noting that public awareness is the first line of defense against such practices.Dubai Residency called on community members to obtain visa and residency services only through official and approved channels and to avoid unreliable advertisements or offers on digital platforms. It also stressed the importance of verifying service sources before sharing personal data or making payments, and encouraged continued cooperation by reporting any illegal practices related to entry and residency services. It added that enhancing community awareness is a key pillar in protecting individuals’ rights and ensuring access to reliable and secure services, in support of Dubai’s efforts to strengthen an integrated government system aligned with community aspirations.