UAE Cracks Down on Begging with 118 Arrests in Abu Dhabi During Ramadan

Authorities increase nationwide efforts to control illegal begging, requesting residents to donate through official channels during the holy month

Ramadan Rules Enforced More Strictly

As the part UAE begging crackdown, 118 individuals were taken into custody by Abu Dhabi Police during Ramadan, authorities disclosed on March 20. Efforts to curb misuse of community kindness have grown firmer throughout the holy season. Enforcement actions unfolded amid broader measures targeting unlawful solicitation. Public appeals for support are being monitored more closely since early spring.

Times of dubai

Strict Laws Against Begging

UAE officials confirmed that begging is illegal, violators may subject to fines as high as Dh5,000 along with up to 3 months imprisonment. Continuing efforts under the UAE begging crackdown have led authorities to emphasize stricter repercussions—any role in coordinated schemes or bringing people from overseas for such purposes may result in 6 months imprisonment with penalties up to Dh100,000.

Fraudulent Tricks Raise Concerns

According to officials, deception features lie heavily among these individuals who solicit funds, using invented narratives in order to attract support and gain money. Targeting these acts forms the core of the UAE begging crackdown, where false appeals interfere with genuine aid initiatives while taking advantage of public goodwill.

People Encouraged to Help Recognized Charity Groups

Money should not go straight into the hands of beggars asking on streets, authorities in Abu Dhabi stressed. Rather than handing cash, support may flow through approved charities during the ongoing UAE begging crackdown. Aid delivered this way stands a better chance of reaching people truly in need.

Community Role in Reporting Incidents

A call goes out to residents, urging them to assist in curbing street begging across the UAE by notifying authorities via verified means—emergency line 999 among them. Safety and public harmony depend heavily on such civic engagement, officials note. Reporting becomes a quiet act of responsibility when handled correctly.

Times of dubai

Nationwide Crackdown Across Emirates

Begging restrictions in the UAE now reach beyond Abu Dhabi alone. While Ramadan’s second week, Dubai Police arrested 37 individuals as part of an initiative titled “An Aware Society Without Begging.” Enforcement actions, maintained steadily under the UAE begging crackdown. This led to a noticeable decline in such incidents over time.

Sharjah and RAK Step in Enforcement Actions

Sharjah Police arrested 95 people who were involved in begging or selling things on streets, under the initiative, during the holy month. With similar efforts, authorities in Ras Al Khaimah took 19 people in custody shortly after the Ramadan started. Among those caught, one beggar was carrying cash, Dh11,000.

No Tolerance for Illegal Fundraising

Unapproved fundraising efforts may align with fines reaching Dh500,000, officials have stated clearly. Across the UAE, enforcement actions remain active where charity regulations are not fully viewed, highlighting a zero-tolerance approach toward illegal activities.

Also Read: Eid Al Fitr 2026 Countdown: Predicted Dates and Official Holiday Schedule in the UAE

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Aftab Alam Writer
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