If you find yourself in the market for that coveted chocolate bar from Dubai (UAE), proceed with caution. Experts warn that scammers are currently cashing in on this “viral craze.”
Dubai chocolate is a unique treat made with pistachio paste and kadaif, which are thin, crispy noodles often referred to as “angel hair.” This confection, named Can’t Get Knafeh Of It, was created in 2021 by chocolatier Sara Hamuda, founder of FIX Dessert Chocolatier. Last year, chocolate from the United Arab Emirates gained immense popularity worldwide, thanks in large part to social media.
Meanwhile, unscrupulous individuals are setting up fake websites that impersonate the manufacturer of Dubai chocolate and the company that sells it in the UAE. Typically, these scammers require upfront payment but fail to deliver any orders. Essentially, they are exploiting consumer enthusiasm and trust in well-known brands.
What do you need to know to avoid falling for this trap?
The manufacturer sells the popular chocolate bar for nearly $19, and it is only available in the UAE. “Currently, we do not offer international shipping or retail sales outside the region,” representatives of the Dubai chocolate company told the Daily Mail.
On their official Facebook page, the company explained that they do not have authorized resellers or even a website. Therefore, if you come across a plethora of websites offering this chocolate during your online search, it’s likely they were created by scammers.
For instance, the first site in this lineup, fixdessertchocolate.com, claims to sell the Dubai chocolate bar for $18 (plus $15 for shipping). However, when customers attempt to place an order, they are informed that the total must be at least $150.
Another suspicious phrase from these “sellers” is: “Order with cryptocurrency and receive an extra chocolate bar!”
Another site, fixdessertshop.com, claims to sell bars for about $19 (plus $30 for shipping). But when potential victims agree to this offer, they are told that they need to pay an additional $108 to complete their order.
Yet another site, orderfixchocolatier.shop, informs customers that they must order at least six bars. But even if buyers pay this exorbitant amount, there’s no guarantee they will receive their order by mail.
There are companies that produce and sell their own versions of this confection. However, they usually clarify that their product is similar to Dubai chocolate, not the authentic version.
Experts believe that due to the hype surrounding Dubai chocolate, it’s best to avoid purchasing it from unfamiliar websites.
If you can’t buy that desired bar directly from the UAE, you’ll need to reach out to someone who can bring it to you.
By the way, a recent investigation in Germany uncovered counterfeit Dubai chocolate bars making their way onto store shelves. The investigation revealed that these bars contained suspicious additives and contaminants. Experts identified palm oil, green food coloring, mold-produced toxins, and even carcinogens among the ingredients.
