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WhatsApp refund message binding, events firm must pay Dh13,000, says Abu Dhabi court

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The Abu Dhabi Commercial Court of First Instance has ordered an events management company to refund Dh13,000 to a woman after ruling that the company had confirmed the refund in writing via phone messages but failed to repay the amount.

According to court records, the woman filed a lawsuit seeking recovery of the money she paid to organise a private event, along with legal interest, expedited enforcement, and compensation for court costs and legal fees.

Refund promised after event shortcomings

The claimant told the court that she had entered into a contract with the company to organise a private function. The agreement explicitly stated that payments would be refunded in the event of organisational shortcomings.

She said the company later acknowledged defects in the event arrangements and agreed to return the full amount, but failed to do so despite repeated follow-ups, according to reports.

WhatsApp messages used as evidence

To support her claim, the woman submitted:

  • A copy of the signed contract
  • A company-issued document
  • Bank transfer records
  • WhatsApp messages exchanged with the company’s representative

The messages included a written confirmation that the company would refund Dh13,000 within 14 days of the event date.

Company disputes claim

The company’s owner attended the hearing and requested the case be dismissed, arguing that the claimant lacked legal standing. Alternatively, he asked the court to reject the claim, stating the woman was not entitled to interest because she was not a trader.

Court rejects defence, orders payment with interest

In its ruling, the court found that the documents established a valid contractual relationship between both parties. It noted that the WhatsApp messages were sent from the same phone number listed in the contract, confirming they were issued by the company’s representative.

The court said there was no evidence the refund had been made, and ruled that the owner’s appearance did not negate the debt or its value.

On interest, the court held that the unpaid amount constituted a known and confirmed debt, and that delay in payment entitled the claimant to compensation.

The company was ordered to:

  • Pay Dh13,000
  • Pay delay interest at 3% per year from the date of filing the claim until full settlement (capped at the principal amount)
  • Cover court costs and legal fees

The ruling highlights that written commitments made via WhatsApp or phone messages can carry legal weight in UAE courts, particularly when linked to a valid contract.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Crime

Dubai Police alert: Fake insurance scams are exploding, don’t pay until you read this

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A new warning from Dubai Police is putting residents on high alert as fraudulent insurance schemes surge across the emirate, many of them spreading rapidly through social media.

As part of its ongoing BewareofFraud campaign, authorities revealed that unlicensed companies are luring victims with “too-good-to-be-true” deals, often advertising heavily discounted vehicle and health insurance packages designed to trick unsuspecting buyers.

These fake operators typically promise quick, hassle-free policies at prices far below market rates—pushing some residents to make payments without checking whether the company is legitimate. By the time doubts arise, the money is often gone.

Officials stressed that all legitimate insurers in the UAE are tightly regulated and must follow strict procedures to protect customers. Any offer that seems unusually cheap or rushed should raise immediate red flags.

Despite ongoing monitoring and legal action against fraudsters, Dubai Police made it clear: awareness is your strongest defence. Residents are strongly urged to verify licences, double-check documentation, and avoid engaging with suspicious online ads.

Anyone who encounters potential scams is encouraged to report them immediately via the eCrime platform or by calling 901, the dedicated non-emergency helpline.

With scams becoming more sophisticated, one simple rule could save you: if it feels too good to be true, it probably is.

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Dubai Police warn against fake news, urge public to rely only on official sources

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Dubai Police have issued a public advisory warning residents against the spread of misinformation, stressing that relying on unverified sources can threaten community safety and stability.

In a statement shared on social media, authorities highlighted how the speed of modern communication has made it easier for inaccurate information to circulate, sometimes deliberately to create panic and anxiety.

Officials emphasised that individuals play a critical role in maintaining public order, noting that sharing unverified content can have serious consequences. “What we share matters,” the statement said, adding that misinformation can undermine public safety.

Residents have been urged to act responsibly online by verifying information before sharing and relying only on official sources for updates.

The advisory also referenced warnings from UAE Public Prosecution, which confirmed that individuals who repost or circulate rumours—even if they are not the original creators—can face legal action under the country’s cybercrime laws.

Authorities reiterated that responsible digital behaviour is essential to protecting both individual and community well-being.

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Crime

Dubai scam alert: Authority warns of fake QR code scams as cyber fraud attempts rise

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The Dubai Electronic Security Centre (DESC) has issued a warning over a growing number of scams involving fake QR codes, especially those sent through email.

According to the authority, cybercriminals are exploiting how quickly information spreads by sharing QR codes that appear to offer urgent updates or important services. However, scanning these codes can expose users to serious risks.

DESC explained that such QR codes may install malware on devices or redirect users to fake websites designed to steal personal and financial information.

How to protect your device

Residents are being urged to stay cautious by verifying the source of any email before scanning QR codes, avoiding suspicious messages, and never entering sensitive details on untrusted links.

To boost online safety, DESC also recommends using the RZAM app, which provides real-time alerts about unsafe websites and allows users to scan links before opening them.

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