Sharjah Police have issued a warning to residents, revealing that beggars in the city are earning as much as 367 dirhams (approximately 28,000 Pakistani rupees) per hour.
According to a Khaleej Times report, UAE police conducted an experiment where an undercover officer disguised as a beggar took to the streets. Within just one hour, he managed to collect 367 dirhams, highlighting how individuals can accumulate significant amounts without genuine financial need, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.
Authorities have also released a video on social media showing a man begging on the streets and receiving money from passersby. The footage demonstrates how beggars can exploit public generosity to earn substantial sums.
Sharjah Police have urged residents to refrain from giving money to beggars and instead direct them towards employment opportunities. They also encouraged citizens to report any beggars by calling 80040 or 901, emphasizing that donations should be made responsibly, while begging remains a criminal offense.
Meanwhile, Dubai Police announced the arrest of 33 beggars during the first 10 days of Ramadan as part of their campaign “Aware Society, Beggar-Free City.” The arrested individuals belong to various nationalities.
It is important to note that begging is illegal in the UAE, carrying a penalty of 5,000 dirhams in fines and up to three months in jail. Those who organize begging operations or recruit individuals from other countries for this purpose face harsher penalties, including six months in prison and fines of up to 100,000 dirhams. Additionally, unauthorized fundraising can result in fines of up to 500,000 dirhams.