Under enhanced initiatives aimed at reducing illegal begging and maintaining the emirate’s public image as safe and civilised, Dubai Police have arrested 26 beggars in the first week of Ramadan. The arrests fell under Dubai Police, carrying out the “Combat Begging” program, whose slogan is “A Conscious Society, Free of Begging.” The campaign is conducted annually throughout Ramadan, a time of year when charitable giving swells.
Coordinated Enforcement Efforts
This operation is being led by the General Department of Criminal Investigation's Suspicious Persons and Criminal Phenomena Department, coordinating with police stations throughout the city. Strategic partners include the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. Officials said that persons of diverse nationalities were witnessed to exhibit begging on the street, and solicitation on various communal sites.
Preventing Exploitation at Ramadan Time
As Ramadan is a hallowed month full of giving and goodwill, people try to manipulate that by cheating the spirit of charity, authorities emphasized. According to reports, some of the beggars are known to craft false stories, abuse children or vulnerable individuals, prey on the worshippers' feelings and prey on those living in close proximity to mosques and other popular public places to attract attention and sympathy. Dubai Police has maintained begging is an illegal act under UAE law and indicated the authorities continued to press down on aggressors.
Public Advised to Give through Legal Means to Donate
Residents and visitors have been encouraged to donate only through officially licensed charitable organisations so help can go far and wide. The public may report begging cases or suspicious activities via calls to 901 or through “Police Eye” from Dubai Police smart application. It also warned against faking online fundraising campaigns, encouraging residents to check the sources before making digital donations.
Campaign in Progress During the Month of Ramadan
The “Combat Begging” campaign will remain in effect across the holy month, with more patrols in the key regions throughout Dubai. Public order, safeguarding the city’s international reputation, ensuring that donations made through charity are legally distributed and channeled, officials said, will continue to be top concerns. Dubai Police reaffirmed their dedication to security to the community and urged locals to support lawful and transparent Ramadan charitable efforts.
