Is Begging illegal in Dubai, UAE?
Begging is prohibited in Dubai, UAE. Begging is considered a breach of the country’s laws and is penalized under the law. In truth, the UAE government has taken many initiatives to curb the country’s begging problem. The Dubai Police Department often conducts raids and arrests beggars who are found to be breaking the law. Those who are discovered begging may face fines, jail, or deportation, depending on the gravity of the offense.
The UAE government has also created several social welfare programs to assist people in need, including cash assistance and support for low-income families and individuals.
In Dubai, the penalty for begging might vary based on the severity of the offence. For example, if a person is found begging for the first time, they may face a fine of up to AED 5,000 (about USD 1,360) and deportation. If a person is caught begging again, the penalties may be harsher, including up to three months in prison and/or a fine of up to AED 10,000 as well as deportation from the country. It should be noted that those who force children or vulnerable adults to beg face much harsher penalties, including up to six months in prison and/or a fine of up to AED 100,000.
Where to report for Beggars in Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah?
- Abu Dhabi by phone on 999 or 8002626 (800Aman), SMS on 2828 or email to aman@adpolice.gov.ae
- Dubai on 901 or 800243 or 8004888
- Sharjah on 901 or 80040 or 06-5632222
- Ras Al Khaimah on 07-2053372
- Ajman on 06-7034310
- Umm Al Quwain on 999
- Fujairah on 09-2051100 or 09-2224411.
For more details, visit https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/justice-safety-and-the-law/anti-begging#federal-law-on-anti-begging