A Sydney man who posed as a doctor on a dating app has faced court charged with raping a woman on their first date.

Police say the pair met on Bumble and arranged to meet for the first time on January 30.

They travelled to David Gabrieli's unit on Boyce Road in Maroubra in Sydney's south-east, where it’s alleged the 38-year-old sexually and indecently assaulted the 26-year-old woman.

She was later driven to Mascot railway station and caught a train home before reporting the matter.

Following a seven-month investigation, detectives yesterday arrested the man at his apartment.

Witnesses saw the suspect sitting on the pavement with his hands behind his back in handcuffs.

It’s understood the man adopted the name of “Doctor Dave” on Bumble and other dating applications, but he is not a qualified doctor.

Today he appeared in court on five charges including aggravated sexual assault without consent, and didn't apply for bail.

While his barrister, Daniel Brezniak, does admit his client met with the woman, he put forward a different version of events today outside court.

"He did have contact with the complainant but he didn't assault her," Mr Brezniak said.

"He is entirely innocent of the charges and he wants that to be completely clear."

Bumble has since released a statement saying its first priority as a dating app is the safety of its users.

"While we cannot comment on an ongoing case, any form of sexual harassment or assault if unacceptable to us and the safety of our users is our number one priority," the statement said.

"We work with law enforcement whenever required and permanently ban any users who violate our strict terms and conditions."

Police fear there may be other women who have encountered this man and they’re appealing for anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.