How to Avoid Property Scams in Ajman, UAE(2025 Guide)

In early 2025, Dubai Police exposed a major real estate scam involving fake rental listings, many of which misled potential buyers in nearby emirates like Ajman. These types of fraud are not isolated; they reflect a broader issue that affects investors, renters, and homebuyers alike. Ajman, with its booming property market and attractive prices, has become a hub for both opportunities and risks. In this guide, you’ll discover how to identify scams before they happen, protect your investment, and safely navigate Ajman’s growing real estate landscape.

Why Property Scams Are Rising in the UAE (and What It Means for Ajman)

Across the UAE, the rapid digitalization of real estate, combined with soaring demand for affordable housing, has opened the door to sophisticated property scams. Platforms like WhatsApp groups, unverified Facebook ads, and third-party listing websites have made it easier than ever for fraudsters to lure unsuspecting buyers with fake or duplicate listings that seem too good to be true.

Ajman, in particular, has experienced exponential growth in its real estate market, driven by the availability of freehold properties, competitive pricing, and interest from both expatriates and local investors. But this boom also comes with vulnerabilities. For first-time buyers or remote investors, verifying an agent’s license, the legality of a listing, or the authenticity of documents can be incredibly difficult.

To combat this, Ajman’s authorities—especially the Ajman Real Estate Regulatory Agency (ARRA)—have rolled out new digital verification systems and tougher laws in 2025 to regulate brokers and protect consumers. Still, as reports from UAE Times Now and Strada show, public awareness and enforcement remain inconsistent.

With fast-paced off-plan development and rising external interest, Ajman presents huge opportunities—but also rising risks. That’s why understanding the scam landscape is no longer optional—it’s essential.

Common Property Scams in Ajman & How to Spot Them

Despite regulations, real estate scams continue to evolve in sophistication. Here are the top 7 types of property frauds in Ajman and how to recognize them before becoming a victim:

1. Fake & Duplicate Listings

   Scammers often steal photos from actual listings and repost them with lower prices to attract attention. These listings usually appear on WhatsApp groups, random Facebook pages, or unofficial websites. The telltale signs include:

• Blurry or watermarked images
• Unrealistically low prices
• Vague location descriptions or listings without RERA/ARRA reference numbers

If you’re unsure, cross-check the listing on trusted portals like Bayut, Property Finder, or Dubizzle. Always verify the property with a licensed agent in Ajman.

2. Unlicensed “Agents”

   Some individuals pose as real estate agents without having any DED or ARRA accreditation. Working with unlicensed brokers means zero legal protection. Always ask for:

• ARRA Broker Registration Number
• DED license copy
• Office trade name matching the agent’s identity

For reference, see our Ajman Real Estate Regulatory Agency Guide.

3. Upfront Fee Traps

   One common scam involves asking for a “token amount” or booking fee before any official documentation is shared. This is a red flag. Legitimate agents will:

• Offer viewings first
• Share documents before requesting any payment
• Accept payments through secure banking channels

4. Phantom Properties

   These are units that either don’t exist or aren’t legally up for sale. Scammers may refuse to show the property in person and delay meetings by saying the “owner is out of town” or “not available.” Never commit to any property deal without:

• Seeing the unit
• Matching the title deed to the actual location
• Confirming ownership with ARRA

5. Forged Documents

   Fake title deeds, rental contracts, or mortgage approval letters are used to make scams look legitimate. Signs include:

• Poor formatting or unclear stamps
• Inconsistent names and property details
• Agents who refuse to verify documents with the authorities

Use our Ajman Property Registration Guide to learn how to validate ownership.

6. Pressure Sales

   Scammers rely on urgency tactics: “Only 1 unit left!” or “Offer ends today!” They pressure you into paying a deposit without giving you enough time to verify. A professional agent allows you to:

• Review all documents
• Compare market options
• Involve legal counsel if needed

7. Offshore Deals & Golden Visa Traps

   Some agents promise a “guaranteed UAE Golden Visa” upon buying low-cost units or land. While Golden Visas are tied to property investments, no one can guarantee one without government approval. Avoid:

• Agents asking for large upfront fees for visa-related services
• Overseas-only transactions
• Unrealistic guarantees (e.g., “14-year visa with 1-bedroom flat”)

By staying informed and working with certified professionals, you can confidently invest in Ajman’s property market while avoiding costly pitfalls.

How to Safeguard Yourself: 7 Proven Steps

1. Verify Credentials & License

Use the official Ajman DED and ARRA directories to check the license status of agents or companies. Trusted portals like Property Finder and Damac Properties recommend verifying the agent’s name, license number, and associated brokerage to ensure legitimacy.

2. Meet in Person & Visit Site

Always meet the agent in a professional setting and insist on viewing the property physically. If you’re overseas, request a live video tour. IM Properties and others emphasize that scammers avoid physical interaction—use this as your first filter.

3. Check Listing Across Portals

Cross-reference the property across Bayut, Property Finder, and Dubizzle. Duplicate listings with different contact numbers or prices often signal fake listings. Avoid deals that only appear on WhatsApp or unknown websites.

4. Demand a Written Contract Before Payment

Never transfer funds without reviewing a written tenancy or sales agreement. Ensure the contract is signed, registered (Ejari or ARRA), and includes all payment details before making any transaction.

5. Use Secure Payment Channels

Make payments via bank transfer or certified cheque. Avoid cash payments or cryptocurrency transactions. Secure channels leave a financial trail that can help you if legal follow-up is required.

6. Verify Title Deeds & Ownership

Request a copy of the title deed and verify it with ARRA or the Ajman Land Department. If dealing with a developer, ask for their ARRA registration and project approval documents.

7. Trust Your Instincts & Report Suspicious Activity

If something feels off—pricing, urgency, or behavior, step back. Trust your instincts. Report suspicious agents to ARRA or Ajman Police to help others stay safe, too.

How Ajman’s New Laws Help Prevent Scams

Ajman’s updated regulations are actively reshaping how real estate is transacted:

• ARRA Licensing Requirements: All agents and developers must be licensed through ARRA.
• Escrow Accounts for Off-Plan Sales: Buyers’ payments for under-construction projects are held in escrow until milestones are met, reducing fraud.
• Penalties for Unregistered Brokers: Brokers operating without licenses face fines and possible blacklisting.

Tip: Ask your agent to show proof of their ARRA license before engaging in any deal.

Tools to Check Before You Transact

To protect yourself, always run these checks:

• Ajman DED License Directory: Confirm company registration.
• ARRA Broker Lookup: Verify individual agents.
• DLD REST or Trakheesi Apps: For comparisons with Dubai-based properties.
• Ejari System: Use this to confirm tenancy contract registration.
• Bayut, Property Finder, Dubizzle: Use these for listing comparison and history.

Real Ajman Scam Cases & What They Taught Us

In one 2025 incident, Dubai Police arrested multiple individuals linked to fake listings that targeted unsuspecting buyers in Ajman. The scam involved collecting deposits on properties that didn’t exist or weren’t for sale.

A Reddit user shared this tip:

“Pay the deposit via cheque, dated 10 days later. If the broker changes the deal or price after that, big red flag.”

These real-life cases highlight why careful vetting, paperwork, and secure payments are essential.

Final Thoughts

Ajman offers real estate opportunities with incredible potential — but only if you navigate it with care. While scams are real, they can be avoided by staying informed, verifying credentials, and choosing licensed professionals who prioritize your safety.

If you’re ready to buy, invest, or sell property in Ajman, don’t take risks — partner with trusted experts.

Explore our step-by-step Guide to Selling Property in Ajman
Learn about Ajman Property Taxes and Fees, and Ajman Real Estate Laws

Ready to Invest Smart in Ajman Real Estate?

Avoid scams. Stay informed. Partner with professionals.

📞 Contact IM Properties today for a secure consultation

FAQs

How can I check if a property is legal in Ajman?

To verify if a property is legal in Ajman, request the title deed and cross-check it with the Ajman Land Department or ARRA (Ajman Real Estate Regulatory Agency). You can also ask the agent for the property’s registration number and confirm the project’s approval status if it’s off-plan. Legal properties should be registered and traceable in official government systems.

What should I do if I’m scammed by a real estate agent in the UAE?

If you’ve been scammed by a real estate agent in Ajman or anywhere in the UAE, immediately file a complaint with the Ajman Police and ARRA. Keep all communication records, contracts, and payment receipts. You can also approach the Consumer Protection Department or a legal advisor to help recover your funds or pursue legal action.

How do I verify property ownership in Ajman?

To verify property ownership in Ajman, ask for a copy of the title deed and verify it with the Ajman Land Department or ARRA. For off-plan properties, confirm the developer’s registration and project approval status. Always ensure that the name on the deed matches the seller’s Emirates ID or passport copy.

What are the warning signs of a fake property deal in Ajman?

Some red flags that signal a fake property deal include:

• Unusually low prices
• Agents refusing to show the property in person
• Lack of ARRA or DED license
• No written contract before requesting payments
• Pressure to act quickly or pay upfront

If any of these occur, walk away and report the incident.

How can I avoid rental fraud in Ajman?

To avoid rental fraud in Ajman:

• Only deal with licensed brokers
• Verify listings on trusted portals like Bayut and Property Finder
• Ask for the Ejari or ARRA-registered tenancy contract
• Never pay in cash without a signed agreement
• Visit the unit or request a live video tour