Dubai Police have announced the arrest of 22 people accused of running an organised begging operation that targeted drivers at busy locations across the emirate, including Al Khor Street, Ras Al Khor, the area near Bu Kadra Bridge, and the bridge on Dubai-Al Ain Road.
The case came to light after a tip submitted through the Police Eye app, describing individuals who approached drivers claiming to be stranded travellers in need of money to continue their journey. Investigators tracked one suspect's movements and gradually uncovered a wider network, with surveillance at key spots leading to the coordinated arrests of all 22 suspects.
Police stressed that begging along major roads poses a genuine safety risk to both drivers and pedestrians, and urged residents to report suspicious activity through the Police Eye app rather than handing over cash directly.
Under UAE law, ordinary begging carries a minimum fine of Dh5,000 and up to three months in prison. Running an organised begging gang, or trafficking people to beg on one's behalf, carries a minimum six-month jail term and a fine exceeding Dh100,000. Soliciting money through digital platforms or social media is treated separately under cybercrime legislation, punishable by up to three months in prison and fines above Dh10,000.
The operation ranks among Dubai Police's largest recent actions against organised begging networks, reinforcing the emirate's firm stance against the practice as authorities continue to monitor high-traffic areas across the city.