Crackdown on Begging Intensifies During Holy Month
Dubai Police have arrested 33 beggars in the first ten days of Ramadan 2025 as part of their ongoing anti-begging campaign. Authorities have reinforced efforts to curb illegal begging, emphasizing that professional networks often exploit the act rather than it being a reflection of genuine need.
With Dubai’s growing reputation as a global hub, officials are determined to maintain law and order and prevent fraudulent practices that manipulate residents’ generosity during the holy month.
Strict Laws Against Begging
The UAE Penal Code strictly prohibits begging, with penalties that include fines of up to AED 5,000 and jail terms of up to three months for offenders. Those found operating organized begging rings face even harsher consequences, including imprisonment of up to six months and fines of AED 100,000.
Authorities have long warned that many beggars are part of well-organized criminal syndicates that strategically exploit Ramadan’s spirit of giving.
In previous years, law enforcement agencies have uncovered cases where beggars were found carrying large sums of cash, sometimes amounting to tens of thousands of dirhams, proving that the activity is far from a genuine act of desperation. Many of these individuals travel to the UAE on short-term visit visas with the sole intention of engaging in fraudulent begging operations.
Public Urged to Donate Through Official Channels
Dubai Police and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) are urging residents to contribute only through authorized charities. The government has established multiple verified channels to support those in need, ensuring that donations reach the right recipients.
Major General Jamal Salem Al Jallaf, Director of the General Department of Criminal Investigation (CID) at Dubai Police, stressed that begging tarnishes the city’s image and deceives well-meaning residents. He advised the public to report suspicious individuals through the official hotline 901 or via the ‘Police Eye’ smart app.
Dubai Police also highlighted that a number of legitimate charitable organizations operate within the UAE, including government-backed relief funds and licensed NGOs. These organizations provide financial assistance, food distribution, and other essential services to those genuinely in need.
Sophisticated Tactics Used by Beggars
Officials have observed that many beggars use fake disabilities, fabricated tragic stories, and emotional pleas to gain sympathy and financial aid. Some individuals have been caught with large sums of cash, revealing that begging is a profitable yet illegal practice in Dubai.
Dubai Police noted that many beggars enter the UAE on tourist visas and operate in high-traffic areas such as mosques, shopping malls, and residential neighborhoods.
Moreover, some of these individuals use social media and instant messaging platforms to coordinate their activities, making it increasingly difficult for law enforcement to track their movements. These beggars often travel in groups, dividing territories among themselves to maximize their earnings.
Law enforcement officials have also found that certain beggars claim to be raising money for medical treatments or supporting families in war-torn regions, but investigations reveal that these are fabricated stories. In some cases, they display fake medical documents or pictures of distressed individuals to evoke sympathy from unsuspecting donors.
Legal Consequences for Supporting Beggars
Dubai Police have reminded residents that giving money to beggars is also a punishable offense. Under UAE laws, those found financially assisting beggars could face fines and other legal repercussions. This measure is intended to deter individuals from engaging in illegal donations and encourage responsible giving.
To combat the issue more effectively, authorities have deployed undercover officers in various locations, closely monitoring areas where begging activities are more prevalent. The government has also implemented advanced surveillance systems, including CCTV monitoring and AI-driven analytics, to identify and track repeat offenders.
Community Awareness and Education
Beyond law enforcement, authorities have launched awareness campaigns to educate residents about the dangers of street begging. Schools, workplaces, and community centers have been urged to spread the message that responsible charitable contributions should go through legal and authorized channels.
A recent survey conducted by local authorities revealed that a significant percentage of the population was unaware of the legal implications of donating to beggars. Many residents assumed that small acts of generosity would not contribute to a larger problem. However, Dubai Police emphasize that the money given to beggars often funds organized crime, including human trafficking and fraudulent visa applications.
To further reinforce this initiative, SMS alerts, social media advertisements, and public awareness events have been rolled out, educating residents on how to make a meaningful difference without supporting illegal activities.
Ramadan Crackdown to Continue
The Dubai Police’s Anti-Begging Campaign will continue throughout Ramadan 2025, with increased surveillance and undercover operations in key locations. Authorities are working closely with various departments to ensure that Dubai remains safe and free from deceptive practices.
The government is also coordinating with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to tighten entry regulations and prevent known offenders from re-entering the country under false pretenses.
Residents are encouraged to be vigilant and support legitimate charities rather than handing money to street beggars. Dubai Police reaffirm that acts of kindness should be channeled responsibly, ensuring that generosity is not exploited by unlawful networks.
How to Report Begging in Dubai
Dubai residents and visitors are encouraged to report any instances of begging to authorities through the following official channels:
- Dubai Police Hotline: 901
- Police Eye Smart App: Available on iOS and Android
- eCrime Platform: www.dubaipolice.gov.ae
Authorities guarantee that all reports will be handled with strict confidentiality, and appropriate action will be taken immediately.
Conclusion
Dubai remains committed to upholding law, order, and the spirit of responsible giving. The city’s zero-tolerance policy towards begging ensures that vulnerable individuals receive genuine help through authorized means, while also protecting the community from fraudulent activities.
With continued cooperation from residents, law enforcement, and government agencies, Dubai Police aim to make Ramadan a season of meaningful giving—free from exploitation and deception.
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