Dubai: Five men jailed, fined up to Dh10,145 over online investment scam

According to court records, the defendants lured unsuspecting victims via the internet, persuading them to invest in what turned out to be fictitious projects

  • PUBLISHED: Sun 28 Sept 2025, 7:32 AM

A Dubai Misdemeanour Court has convicted five men for defrauding several people through an online investment scam. They were sentenced to jail, ordered to pay fines, and will be deported.

According to court records, the defendants lured unsuspecting victims via the internet, persuading them to invest in what turned out to be fictitious projects. Prosecutors said the group relied on promises of high returns, convincing individuals to transfer money under the impression that their funds would be used in profitable ventures.

After reviewing the evidence, the court sentenced each of the five men to one month in jail and ordered their deportation from the UAE upon completion of their sentences.

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The fines imposed varied according to the amounts they had unlawfully obtained. The first and third defendants were ordered to pay Dh10,145 each, while the second was fined Dh6,644. The court also imposed a fine of Dh500 on the fourth defendant and Dh300 on the fifth. A sixth man, who was also on trial in connection with the case, was acquitted due to insufficient evidence.

The ruling highlights the vigilance of UAE courts in addressing cyber-enabled fraud and investment scams. Legal experts note that even relatively modest cases are met with firm penalties, including custodial sentences and deportation, to deter others from exploiting digital platforms for illegal gain.

Authorities have repeatedly urged residents to remain cautious of online offers that promise quick profits or guaranteed returns, reminding the public to verify the legitimacy of financial schemes before transferring money. Officials stressed that individuals should exercise due diligence and report any suspicious activity, reinforcing the principle that if an investment opportunity seems too good to be true, it most likely is.