A Canadian tourist, SY, was scammed five times in just five days during his trip to Dubai. After reading an investigative article on this fraud, SY reached out to share his experience, hoping to warn others.
He successfully recovered Dh7,000 and even assisted another victim in reclaiming Dh4,000.
How the Scam Works
The scam involves women using fake profiles on dating apps like Tinder and Bumble. They invite men to upscale nightclubs, order expensive drinks, and leave their dates with hefty bills. Victims have reported charges ranging from Dh3,000 to Dh11,000. Once the scam is complete, the women block their victims on WhatsApp or vanish.
SY’s Experience: A Timeline
December 3: The First Scam
SY met a woman named Bezan at a nightclub in Business Bay. While he ordered water and orange juice, Bezan ordered several drinks, leading to a bill of over Dh7,000. She feigned shock, and SY, feeling embarrassed, paid the bill.
December 4: A Second Encounter
Another date, Jasmine, suggested meeting at a bar in Emirates Financial Towers. SY limited the drinks to one each, yet the bill totaled Dh650. Refusing to pay more than his Dh70 juice, SY stood his ground despite Jasmine’s complaints.
December 6: Testing the Scammers
SY invited Bezan to a beach outing, but she insisted on meeting at a bar instead. This time, SY discreetly checked the bill, which had already reached Dh3,000. After a tense exchange, the management reduced his charge to just Dh35 for his water.
Later that day, SY confronted the nightclub manager and secured a Dh2,500 refund. By December 13, he recovered an additional Dh4,400.
December 7: A Familiar Trap
Jasmine invited SY to the same bar, claiming they needed to “complete their experience.” When SY refused, she led him to another bar under the same management. The bill came to Dh1,000, which SY declined to pay, resulting in him being asked to leave.
Same Evening: A Third Scam Attempt
SY met Razan, who took him to a nightclub on Sheikh Zayed Road. Refusing to order or pay for her drinks, SY was asked to leave by the manager. “These women clearly work with the clubs to exploit customers,” he said. “You have every right to refuse payment for orders you didn’t make.”
Advice for Others
SY offered this advice to avoid falling victim:
- Pay only for what you’ve consumed.
- If bar staff threaten police action, don’t let them intimidate you.
SY also helped another victim recover Dh4,000 after sharing his story online.
Growing Awareness
Since the first report, more victims have shared similar experiences. One man reported losing Dh5,000, while another negotiated his bill down to Dh800. Online platforms like Reddit are filled with similar accounts of inflated nightclub bills.
A hospitality expert noted, “These women likely earn commissions from the clubs. This tactic has been seen in Europe and Asia and is now happening in Dubai.”
Key Takeaway: Stay alert when meeting strangers through dating apps. Stick to public places and avoid bars or nightclubs suggested by someone you just met.
