Abu Dhabi Cracks Down on Begging With AED 5K Fine

In the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi, authorities are urging the public to avoid engaging with beggars during the holy month of Ramadan. The police have emphasized the importance of donating money only through official, approved channels to ensure that charitable efforts reach the right places.

Abu Dhabi Police shared a 33-second awareness video on X (formerly Twitter), where they warned residents about the dangers of begging. The video explains that begging is not only an unlawful practice but also has serious consequences for the safety and security of the community. "Begging is a phenomenon that has serious effects on the security and safety of society," said the police in the post.

To help tackle this issue, the police have called for residents to cooperate by reporting beggars to the appropriate authorities. They also encouraged people to make their donations through officially approved institutions. "Therefore, we consistently recommend giving your donations through the officially approved institutions in the country and collaborating with the police and relevant authorities to address the issue," the police said in the video.

Raising Awareness and Promoting Safety

Abu Dhabi Police are not alone in their efforts. Earlier this year, Dubai Police launched their annual "Combat Begging" initiative, which also seeks to combat begging during Ramadan. In 2024 alone, Dubai Police apprehended 384 beggars. Over the past five years, a total of 2,085 beggars have been arrested in Dubai.

Legal Consequences for Begging

Begging in the UAE is considered a criminal offense, with strict penalties in place. Anyone found begging can face a fine of AED 5,000 and up to three months in prison. Organizing begging rings or recruiting individuals from outside the country to beg can lead to even harsher consequences, including a six-month prison term and a fine of AED 100,000. Additionally, raising funds without the proper permits can result in fines of up to AED 500,000.

Support Official Charities

To ensure your donations are used correctly, it is recommended to contribute through registered charitable organizations. This not only guarantees that your money reaches those in need, but it also supports the safety and wellbeing of the community.