Concerned OFW raises alarm over beer can litter near labor community market in Al Quoz

A concerned overseas Filipino worker (OFW) has appealed to fellow residents in Al Quoz to be more mindful of public cleanliness after observing piles of empty beer cans scattered near a drainage area outside the labor community market.

The woman, who requested to remain anonymous, shared a video with The Global Filipino Magazine showing multiple crushed and empty beer cans—reportedly a popular party drink among Asians—left unattended near a street gutter. The footage, taken in the early morning, captures the area before the scheduled cleaning crews arrive, revealing the extent of the mess.

“Sana naman matuto tayong rumespeto sa paligid at sa ibang nakatira sa area. Paulit-ulit ko na po ‘tong nakikita tuwing umuuwi ako ng madaling araw. Nakakahiya,” she said.

According to the OFW, this isn’t an isolated incident. She has noticed similar littering behavior near the market, particularly after weekends. Her concern goes beyond aesthetics, emphasizing the risk of attracting pests and the possibility of violating Dubai’s strict public decency and anti-littering laws.

Under Dubai law, individuals caught littering—including disposing of food containers, cigarette butts, or beverage cans—can face fines starting from AED 500, with higher penalties for repeat offenses or those involving public safety hazards. Drinking alcohol in public places is also illegal and can result in fines of up to AED 5,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.

She hopes her video serves as a reminder to the community to dispose of waste responsibly and avoid drinking or leaving alcohol containers in public spaces—both out of respect for local laws and for the safety and dignity of everyone in the area.