SAFETY GUIDE
How to buy second-hand safely in the UAE
Short answer
Never pay before you have seen the item. Do not send deposits, gift cards or crypto, never share a one-time code, and ignore payment links sent in chat. Meet in a public or well-lit place, or the seller's building lobby, inspect and test the item, and pay only when you are happy.
The rules that stop most scams
- No deposits. A seller who asks for money to hold an item you have not seen is the most common scam on every marketplace.
- No codes or links. Never share a one-time password, and never pay through a link a stranger sends you.
- Too cheap is a warning. A new iPhone at half price is not a bargain.
- Keep the conversation on the platform until you meet, so there is a record.
Inspect before you pay
- Furniture: check joints, drawers, stains and smells, and measure your door and lift first.
- Electronics: power it on, check the battery health, and make sure phones and laptops are signed out of the seller's account.
- Appliances: ask to see it running.
- Baby items: check the model has not been recalled, and avoid used car seats with unknown history.
How Sookify helps
Sookify is for adults only. It checks messages for common scam patterns, keeps your exact address private, records offers and the agreed price in the chat, lets both sides tick off a handover checklist, and only allows reviews from completed deals. Sookify never asks for a deposit to hold an item. You can report a member or a listing from the chat, and people review what gets flagged.
If something goes wrong, contact Sookify support. For fraud, report it to the police through the UAE's official channels.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to buy second-hand in Dubai?
Yes, if you never pay before seeing the item, avoid deposits and payment links, meet somewhere safe and inspect the item before paying.
Should I pay a deposit to hold a used item?
No. Asking for a deposit before you have seen the item is the most common second-hand scam.