Dubai Police have apprehended 33 beggars within the first 10 days of Ramadan as part of their annual crackdown against the illegal practice, authorities announced on Sunday.
The arrests were made under the campaign ‘A conscious society, free of beggars,’ which aims to combat both traditional and online begging. Officials noted that some beggars resort to manipulative tactics, including exploiting children, patients, and people of determination to gain sympathy.
Authorities emphasized that begging is a persistent issue during Ramadan, with some individuals targeting prayer gatherings, public spaces, and markets, while others solicit donations online under false pretenses, such as claiming to fund mosque construction abroad or provide humanitarian aid.
To curb these activities, Dubai Police have increased patrols in key areas and are working closely with strategic partners, including the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality, and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department.
Residents are urged not to engage with beggars and instead report any incidents via the Dubai Police contact center (901), the ‘Police Eye’ service on the smart app, or the ‘E-crime’ platform for online cases. Officials also reminded the public that legitimate financial aid is available through authorized charities and government programs.
