The commercial compliance and consumer protection (CCCP) department at government body Dubai Economy has closed an immigration services office that misled investors by offering assistance to obtain UAE citizenship.
The fraudsters reviewed personal details and proof of wealth submitted by applicants, updating them later on their eligibility status for citizenship.
The investigation by CCCP revealed that the scammers “promised investors assistance in obtaining UAE citizenship, provided the applicant had no less than AED100m (£19.7m, $27.2m, €22.8m) wealth and paid $10,000 (£7,238, €8,382) processing fee for the application”.
Applicants were told their details would be evaluated for compliance with the citizenship requirements after which they can submit it to the authorities concerned.
Recent changes
The service was unauthorised and in violation of the recent amendment to the UAE Citizenship Law.
Changes made in January 2021 gave investors, doctors, scientists or researchers, creative talents like authors, inventors and their families eligibility for citizenship by the UAE Cabinet, local Emiri or Rulers’ Courts, and executive councils of the seven emirates.
Dubai Economy said that “stern action will be taken against any office or commercial establishment that transgresses its authority and reminded UAE residents, investors and the public to be aware of such fraudulent practices”.
