Begging Is A Crime Punishable By Law – Dubai Police

NaijaChoice News reports that the warning forms part of a fresh anti-begging crackdown timed for the holy month of Ramadan 2026, when millions of Muslims increase charitable giving and fraudsters move in quickly with sob stories and fake injuries.

Federal Decree Law No. 31 of 2021 makes begging a punishable misdemeanour across the entire UAE. A healthy person caught imploring for money or gifts risks up to three months behind bars and a minimum fine of AED 5,000 – roughly N1.83 million at today’s exchange rate. Organised begging syndicates or those who bring people from outside the country to beg face even tougher punishment: at least six months in prison and fines that can hit AED 100,000 or higher.

Police in Dubai have already made several high-profile arrests this season, including beggars found with luxury cars and hundreds of thousands of dirhams in cash, exposing how some “professional” beggars live far better than the people they claim to represent.

The #GiveWisely message is simple but powerful: your zakat and sadaqah should go to licensed charities and government-approved channels only, not to random people on the roadside or via unverified social media appeals. This protects genuine needy people and stops funds from financing crime rings.

For the large Nigerian community in Dubai and other emirates – many of whom are traders, professionals and students – the message is crystal clear. Break the law and you risk deportation after serving time, with your name permanently tainted.

Back home, the announcement has sparked massive reactions on Nigerian social media. “Abegistan don ban begging o!” one user joked, while others wrote: “Let this law reach Nigeria sharp sharp,” “Almajiri system go scatter,” and “Our own beggars go first run to Dubai before dem catch them.” Many Nigerians are openly calling on federal and state governments to borrow a leaf from the UAE and criminalise street begging nationwide.

NaijaChoice News urges every Nigerian in the UAE: enjoy Ramadan, give generously, but give wisely. Support only registered organisations such as the UAE Red Crescent, Dubai Charity Association, or official food banks. If you see suspicious begging, report immediately to 901 or through the Dubai Police smart app.

The UAE is sending a loud message – charity yes, but organised exploitation, no. NaijaChoice News will continue to monitor developments and bring you updates on how this affects Nigerians living and working in the Emirates.