A man has been sentenced to six months in prison after being convicted of taking Dh1.515 million from a father by falsely claiming he could secure his son’s admission to a college.
The Sharjah Court of First Instance found the defendant guilty of using a false identity and claiming to have influential connections that could help arrange the admission.
The case began after the father was introduced to the man through an acquaintance. The defendant initially requested Dh70,000 in cash and later asked for a further Dh445,000, claiming the money was needed for first-year tuition. He subsequently sought another Dh1 million, describing it as an investment.
The son ultimately handed over a total of Dh1.515 million, but the promised college admission never materialised and the money was not returned. The court also referred the case to the competent civil court and ordered the defendant to pay court fees.
The case is a reminder for UAE residents to verify claims about university admissions and avoid handing large sums to intermediaries who promise guaranteed places or access through influential contacts.