Dubai: 33 Beggars Arrested in 10 Days of Ramadan for Exploitation

Dubai Police Arrest 33 Beggars in First 10 Days of Ramadan

Dubai Authorities said Sunday that they have arrested 33 beggars in the first 10 days of Ramadan as a result of their stepped-up anti-begging operation. The program, titled ‘A Conscious Society, Free of Beggars,’ aims to curb the increasing number of begging incidents, particularly during the holy month.

Targeting Abuse of Begging Techniques
The arrested people, who were of different nationalities, were discovered to be requesting charity using deceptive means.
The police revealed that several beggars exploit children, patients, and people of determination to gain sympathy. Some even pretend to be in dire need while accompanied by children to enhance credibility.

Authorities had earlier reported the arrest of nine beggars on the very first day of Ramadan, consisting of five men and four women. With more police patrols in high-risk locations like marketplaces, mosques, and community events, the crackdown has been stepped up even more.

Strict Penalties for Begging and Organised Scams
In the UAE, begging is strictly prohibited and is considered a crime. Those caught doing so can be fined up to 5,000 dirhams and imprisoned for up to three months. However, those who plan extensive begging operations or bring foreigners for this purpose will face severe penalties, including a fine of 100,000 dirhams and a six-month prison sentence.

Additionally, online begging and unapproved fundraising are crimes that carry penalties of up to Dh500,000,000. Dubai Police keeps tabs on the dishonest tactics beggars employ and devises plans to stop these dishonest tactics.

Encouragement of Public Awareness and Reporting
Locals have been cautioned not to fall for the tricks used by beggars, particularly during Ramadan when many feel tempted to give liberally.
Authorities urge the public to rely on official charities and government-backed social assistance programs rather than handing out money to individuals.

Dubai Police has encouraged residents to report any cases of begging immediately via the contact center (901), the ‘Police Eye’ service on the Dubai Police smart app, or through the ‘E-crime’ online platform for digital begging cases.

Sharjah’s Social Experiment Exposes the Reality of Begging
Meanwhile, in an experiment conducted by Sharjah Police, a man posing as a beggar managed to collect Dh367 in an hour, demonstrating how easily beggars can exploit the generosity of the public during Ramadan.

Authorities continue to urge those in need to seek financial assistance through legitimate charities and government welfare programs, and to ensure that donations reach those in genuine need.