Dubai’s Consumer Protection Department has warned residents against falling for “unrealistic” travel offers, saying many complaints stem from consumers chasing the lowest prices without verifying whether travel providers are licensed or credible.

The warning was issued by the Consumer Protection Department at Dubai Corporation for Consumer Protection and Fair Trade, under the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), following a rise in travel-related complaints.

Problems Can Start Before You Travel

Complaints commonly arise due to overlooked details, misunderstood terms and conditions, or dealings with unlicensed entities. It is common for today’s traveller to compare ticket prices being offered by online vendors and go for the lowest price option before checking the credibility of the seller. 

Ahmad Ahli, Acting Director of the Consumer Protection Department, said issues often begin at the moment a booking is confirmed, not upon arrival at the destination.

“In today’s travel market, comparing prices is a daily habit,” Ahli told a local daily.

Book Only Through Licensed Providers

Authorities urged consumers to:

• Book through licensed travel agencies
• Use reputable booking platforms
• Book directly with airlines and hotels
• Verify providers through trusted recommendations and reviews (“social verification”)

Fake online deals 

During peak travel periods, scammers use the surge in ticket demand to their advantage. As travellers book flights, reserve hotels and shop for gifts, fraudsters are rolling out highly convincing fake deals online.

Scammers are increasingly targeting consumers with cloned websites, fake online stores and fraudulent delivery messages, designed to look almost identical to legitimate brands and service providers.

Cloned airline and hotel websites

Fake flight offers and hotel bookings are on the rise, and consumers have to be aware when making booking deals online. These deals are often promoted on social media with prices that appear far cheaper than market rates.

Fraudsters create cloned airline and hotel websites, tricking users into entering card details and personal information. By the time victims realise the booking is fake, the payments have already gone.

How to Protect Yourself

To stay safe, travellers should follow these precautions:

Travel Safety Tips

• Book flights and hotels only through official airline and hotel websites
• Avoid deals shared through WhatsApp, Instagram or random ads
• Double-check website URLs for spelling errors or unusual domain names

General Fraud Prevention

• Do not click on links in unsolicited emails or SMS
• Enable two-factor authentication for purchases on apps
• Confirm deals directly with companies using verified contact details
• Stay updated on scam alerts from authorities