Indian consulate warns UAE-based Indian nationals against visa, job scams:Fraudsters seek passports, Emirates IDs, biometric data to commit fraud

The Consulate General of India in Dubai and the Northern Emirates has warned Indian nationals in the UAE about fraudsters and agents falsely claiming they can arrange visa regularisation, emergency certificates, exit permits, Emirates IDs and jobs. The Consulate said it has received reports of several Indian nationals, particularly those working in blue-collar jobs, being targeted by such fraudulent operators. Fraudsters seeking passports, Emirates IDs and biometrics According to the advisory, scammers ask victims to hand over their passports, Emirates IDs and biometric information, including facial, iris and fingerprint scans, claiming these are required for official procedures. The Consulate warned that such information could potentially be misused to carry out financial transactions, open bank accounts or obtain loans and credit cards in victims’ names without their knowledge. Victims could then face liability for transactions they did not authorise, along with possible financial penalties, travel restrictions and, in some cases, imprisonment, the Consulate said. Biometrics only at authorised UAE facilities The Indian mission has advised citizens not to share their passport, Emirates ID, biometric or personal and financial information with unauthorised individuals or organisations. It clarified that biometric scans required for services such as exit permits, Outpasses, Emirates IDs or visa regularisation must be provided only at authorised UAE government facilities and counters. The Consulate also clarified that fingerprint, facial or iris scans are not required to obtain passports or Emergency Certificates at the Consulate General of India in Dubai or the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi. “Any individual or agent demanding such biometric data in the name of the Embassy is engaging in fraud and should not be entertained,” the advisory said. Helpline for verification and assistance Indian nationals approached by unauthorised agents seeking biometric data or Emirates IDs have been advised to contact the Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayta Kendra for verification and assistance. The helpline can be reached through the toll-free number 80046342. Assistance is also available via WhatsApp or SMS at 00971543090571, or by email at pbsk.dubai@mea.gov.in. The Consulate has urged Indians living in or travelling to the UAE to verify the credentials of anyone offering such services and report suspicious activity to the Indian mission and relevant UAE authorities. ​