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Dubai Police arrest 37 beggars during Ramadan exploiting people's emotions
Beggars often take advantage of people’s kindness during Ramadan for their own benefit, using tactics like involving children, the sick, and people with disabilities to get sympathy
- PUBLISHED: Wed 4 Mar 2026, 6:09 PM
Dubai Police announced on Wednesday that they arrested 37 beggars during the second week of Ramadan. These arrests took place across the emirate as part of efforts to fight begging, which is illegal in the country.
These arrests are part of the 'An Aware Society Without Begging' campaign, which aims to raise public awareness and protect Dubai’s reputation as a safe and civilised city.
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Brigadier Ali Salem Al Shamsi, Director of the Suspicious Persons and Criminal Phenomena Department, said the campaign has successfully reduced begging over the years. “Thanks to firm legal action against those caught begging, the campaign has caused a steady yearly drop in begging cases, with 37 beggars of different nationalities arrested in the second week of Ramadan,” he said.
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Al Shamsi noted that Dubai Police carefully watch how begging methods change each year so they can create effective ways to protect the community.
"Beggars often take advantage of people’s kindness during Ramadan for their own benefit, using tactics like involving children, the sick, and people with disabilities to get sympathy," he said. He urged the public not to fall for these tricks and mentioned that several cases using these methods have already been caught.
The director also encouraged people to donate only through official charities to make sure their contributions help those who really need it.
The public is urged to report begging by calling the toll-free number 901, using the Police Eye service on the Dubai Police app, or through the eCrime platform for online cases.
Al Shamsi further called on community members to report beggars by calling the toll free number 901 or using the "Police Eye" service on the Dubai Police app, as well as to report electronic begging cases via the "e Crime" platform
Ajanta Paul is a Senior Editor on the Digital team. A natural leader and newshound, she thrives in breaking news and high-pressure situations — and enjoys reporting on community issues that matter to UAE residents.