Abu Dhabi cracks down on companies with fake licences, cancelling the visas of owners and employees

Dh50,000 penalty introduced after some caught out in survey of 100 businesses

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Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development has toughened penalties against companies using bogus economic licences to Dh50,000, in addition to blacklisting offenders.

"Using fake licences is a significant threat to economic activities and anti-counterfeiting measures have to be harshened to put an end to such practices," said Khalifa Bin Salim Al Mansouri, acting undersecretary, noting that the authority has intensified field inspection campaigns.

"A joint taskforce has been formed and led by DED with the participation of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation as well as the General Directorate of Residence and Foreigners Affairs to uncover such practices and ensure legal framework for all residents in the country."

A total of 100 commercial companies suspected of using bogus visas have been subjected to inspections, 70 of which are in Abu Dhabi, five in Al Ain and 25 in Al Dhafra, he said, explaining that some of the licences used proved to be fake and all necessary measures have been taken, including cancellation of residence permits.

He said "basic rules and pillars" are needed serve the public and not illegal residence in Abu Dhabi and the other emirates.