"Beggars in UAE make Rs28,000 per hour," police say during mafia crackdown

Sharjah – Authorities in Sharjah have issued a stern warning against organized begging mafias, revealing that some beggars are raking in impressive earnings by exploiting public generosity, particularly during Ramadan.

Police Experiment Uncovers Shocking Begging Earnings

A recent experiment conducted by Sharjah Police exposed the lucrative nature of street begging in the emirate. In a viral social media clip, an undercover officer disguised as a beggar managed to collect AED 367 ($100) in just one hour, proving how some individuals take advantage of people’s kindness.

The experiment highlighted how begging has become a profitable business, with some beggars accumulating substantial daily earnings without genuine financial need.

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Sharjah & Dubai Police Crack Down on Illegal Begging

Following the findings, Sharjah authorities are urging residents to refrain from giving money to beggars, suggesting they instead direct those in need toward legitimate employment opportunities.

Meanwhile, Dubai Police have intensified their crackdown on illegal begging. In the first 10 days of Ramadan, authorities arrested over two dozen beggars from various nationalities under a strict anti-begging campaign.

Begging in UAE: Heavy Fines & Jail Time

For those unfamiliar, begging is a criminal offense in the UAE, with severe penalties:

Individuals caught begging face fines of up to AED 5,000 and three months in jail.
Those found running begging networks or recruiting beggars face even harsher consequences, including six months in prison and a fine of AED 100,000.

Authorities Urge Public to Report Beggars

Sharjah Police have advised residents to report suspected beggars through official channels instead of handing them money. Authorities are also encouraging social initiatives that provide legitimate support to those in need.

With police actively clamping down on the begging mafia, the UAE remains committed to maintaining law and order while ensuring that genuine cases of hardship are addressed through proper government support programs.