Islamabad, Mar 17, 2025: A recent experiment conducted by UAE law enforcement has shed light on the ease with which individuals can profit from begging.
As reported by the Khaleej Times, an undercover officer posed as a UAE beggar and took to the streets.
In just one hour, he managed to collect 367 dirhams, revealing how some individuals exploit public kindness, especially during Ramadan, despite not facing genuine financial hardship.
Authorities have also shared a video on social media featuring a man soliciting money from pedestrians.
The footage underscores how UAE beggars’ hourly earnings can manipulate people’s goodwill to accumulate large sums.
In response, Sharjah Police have urged residents to refrain from giving money to beggars and instead guide them toward legitimate employment opportunities.
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Additionally, authorities urge the public to report UAE beggar hourly earnings by calling 80040 or 901 and emphasize donating only through authorized channels since begging is a punishable offense.
Meanwhile, Dubai Police have intensified their crackdown on street begging.
During the first ten days of Ramadan, authorities arrested 33 individuals of various nationalities as part of their campaign, “Aware Society, Beggar-Free City.”
It is crucial to recognize that the UAE strictly prohibits begging, imposing severe penalties on offenders.
Authorities may fine those caught engaging in the act 5,000 dirhams and sentence them to up to three months in jail.
Additionally, individuals who orchestrate begging networks or bring people from other countries for this purpose face even harsher consequences.
Such organizers can be sentenced to six months in prison and fined up to 100,000 dirhams. Furthermore, unauthorized fundraising activities can lead to penalties reaching 500,000 dirhams.
Authorities continue to remind residents to be cautious and direct their generosity through official charity organizations rather than supporting illegal street begging.
