Dubai Police urge vigilance against online begging

Dubai Police are warning the public about a rise in online begging during the holy month of Ramadan.

They are urging residents not to respond to suspicious messages or donation requests shared on websites or social media.

The Anti‑Cybercrime Department says scammers and organised networks often take advantage of the spirit of generosity in Ramadan to obtain money illegally.

The public is being reminded to make donations and zakat only through licensed charities in the UAE.

Dubai Police stressed that online begging is a crime under Federal Decree Law No. 34 of 2021. Offenders can face up to three months in prison and/or fines of at least AED 10,000.

Residents can report beggars by calling 901, using the Police Eye feature on the Dubai Police app, or through the E‑Crime platform.

This warning is part of the annual “An Aware Society Without Begging” campaign, which runs throughout Ramadan to combat both individual and organised begging and promote safe, regulated giving.

The initiative is carried out with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai, and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department.

Dubai Police say safeguarding generosity during Ramadan is a shared responsibility, and community vigilance is key.

#News | Dubai Police Warns of Cyber Begging Exploiting Ramadan Generosity

Details:https://t.co/BAmhG6LTMF#Onlinebegging #Ecrime pic.twitter.com/24BwmXYLJv

— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) February 16, 2026