Introduction Of Dubai Police
Dubai Police have intensified their efforts to combat begging, arresting 222 individuals during Ramadan and the Eid Al Fitr holidays. Authorities continue to crack down on fraudulent activities linked to begging, ensuring public awareness and compliance with UAE laws.
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Targeting Fraudulent Tactics
According to Colonel Ahmad Al Adidi, Acting Director of the Department of Suspects and Criminal Phenomena, 33 of the 222 arrested beggars were apprehended specifically during Eid Al Fitr. He highlighted that many beggars exploit the charitable nature of the holy month by using deceptive methods, such as involving children, people with disabilities, or fabricating medical conditions to solicit sympathy. Several cases involving women begging with children were also recorded.
‘Fight Begging’ Campaign
To curb the issue, Dubai Police, in collaboration with key government entities, launched the ‘Fight Begging’ campaign under the slogan ‘An Aware Society, Free of Begging.’ This initiative is supported by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), and Al Ameen Service.
Captain Abdullah Khamis, Head of the Anti-Begging Section, emphasized that the campaign is not only focused on reducing street begging but also on combating online begging scams. He noted that fraudulent fundraising activities, such as fake appeals for mosque construction abroad and fabricated humanitarian crises, were also being targeted.
Public Awareness and Reporting
Dubai Police urge the public to contribute only through official charitable organizations to ensure that donations reach those genuinely in need. Authorities also encourage residents to report beggars by calling 901, using the ‘Police Eye’ feature on the Dubai Police smart app, or reporting online begging activities via the E-Crime platform at www.ecrime.ae.
Legal Consequences
Begging is a criminal offense in the UAE, carrying a penalty of a Dh5,000 fine and up to three months of imprisonment. Individuals found orchestrating begging networks or recruiting people from abroad for this purpose face stricter penalties, including a six-month jail term and a Dh100,000 fine. Additionally, unauthorized fundraising can lead to fines of up to Dh500,000.
Dubai Police remain committed to ensuring the safety and integrity of charitable contributions while maintaining law and order in the emirate.
