During Ramadan, Dubai police arrested 33 beggars of different nationalities as part of an anti-begging campaign aimed at supporting the dignity of the country and preventing illegal begging activities. The acting director of the General Department of Criminal Investigation of Dubai Police, Colonel Ahmed Al-Odaidi, noted the success of the campaign "Creating a Society Free of Beggars" in reducing the number of beggars each year.
"This campaign effectively reduces the number of beggars each year thanks to strict measures taken against detained individuals. During the first ten days of the holy month, the campaign led to the arrest of 33 beggars of various nationalities," said Colonel Al-Odaidi. He added that patrolling in areas where begging is prevalent has been intensified, and officials continue to monitor the usual tactics used to provoke a sense of community, including online begging.
The police warn that beggars may exploit children, the sick, or individuals with limited abilities for collecting money, and also report cases when women with children ask for donations. Begging in the UAE is considered a criminal offense, which may result in up to three months of imprisonment and a fine of 5,000 dirhams. Dubai police urge residents to refrain from giving money to beggars and, instead, donate to official charitable organizations providing financial assistance to those in need.
"Official establishments and charitable organizations are available for those in need of financial assistance or services, such as 'Iftar for the fasting'," said Al-Odaidi. Dubai police call on the public to donate through official charitable organizations and report beggars via hotline 901, the 'Police Eye' application, or the 'E-crime' platform.
