Sharjah Police have issued a stark warning against street beggars exploiting public generosity after a real-life experiment revealed just how lucrative begging can be.
In a video shared by authorities, an individual was assigned to pose as a beggar on the streets of Sharjah. Within just one hour, he managed to collect AED 367 from passersby, highlighting how some beggars take advantage of people’s emotions, particularly during Ramadan.
Police urged residents to refrain from giving money to beggars and instead donate through official charity channels. Authorities also encouraged the public to report cases of begging by calling 80040 or 901, emphasizing that generosity should be directed through proper means.
Begging is illegal in the UAE and carries a penalty of up to three months in jail and a fine of AED 5,000. Those orchestrating begging networks or bringing individuals into the country for this purpose can face harsher penalties, including a six-month prison term and a AED 100,000 fine. Raising funds without proper authorization can also result in fines of up to AED 500,000.
Authorities continue to crack down on the issue, with Dubai Police recently arresting 33 beggars in the first 10 days of Ramadan as part of their campaign, A Conscious Society, Free of Beggars.
