TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Seasonal beggars who emerge specifically during Ramadan are not a phenomenon unique to Indonesia. Dubai, the futuristic city known for its luxury, has also become a target for panhandlers during the holy month.
According to the Khaleej Times, Dubai police arrested 37 beggars during the second week of Ramadan. The arrests took place across the emirate as part of ongoing efforts to combat the practice. Beggars frequently exploit the heightened generosity of the public during Ramadan, employing tactics such as involving children, the sick, and individuals with disabilities to elicit sympathy.
Begging is strictly illegal in the United Arab Emirates. The UAE’s most populous city has launched "An Aware Society Without Begging" campaign, aimed at bolstering public awareness and protecting Dubai’s reputation as a safe and civilized global hub.
Brigadier Ali Salem Al Shamsi, Director of Criminal Investigations and Criminal Phenomena, stated that 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 noted.
According to Al Shamsi, the Dubai Police have observed how begging methods evolve annually. These observations assist authorities in developing effective strategies to protect the public.
He urged citizens and residents not to be deceived by these ruses. He encouraged the public to donate exclusively through official charities to ensure their contributions reach those truly in need.
Beggar Found Owning Three Luxury Cars
Last week, police arrested a beggar who owned three luxury cars and claimed to have accumulated wealth by manipulating public sympathy. Authorities seized thousands of dirhams from the individual, according to a report in the Khaleej Times.
Al Shamsi stated that the man had staged a deliberate performance to exploit human sentiment for profit. He had reportedly collected 25,000 dirhams (approximately Rp115 million) but continued to solicit money. "That amount is more than enough to fund his return home," Shamsi remarked.
During the same week, police apprehended 26 beggars from various countries. Notably, 90 percent of those arrested had entered Dubai on visit visas. The public is urged to report beggars by calling the toll-free number 901, using the Police Eye service on the Dubai Police application, or via the eCrime platform for online cases.
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