Published: 8 March 2026, Sunday at 9:50 pm|Dubai|
Dubai Police have arrested 13 people of an organised begging gang that was allegedly run by a ringleader outside the UAE. According to officials, emotional stories and deceptive tactics were used to collect money from residents and visitors across the emirate.
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Dubai Police Arrest 13 Members of Organised Begging Gang
Authorities revealed a coordinated operation, where many people worked together to collect money while being controlled remotely by a ringleader based overseas.
According to officials, the gang members claimed they were stranded in the country and needed help urgently, hoping to gain sympathy from people who were passing by.
Key details of the case include:
- 13 Asian nationals were arrested in the operation
- An overseas ringleader controlled the gang
- Members used fabricated stories to request money
- Begging activities took place in busy public locations
Police said the suspects targeted areas where people often feel sympathetic toward those asking for help.
Common locations included:
- Mosques
- Hospitals and clinics
- Markets
- Busy streets
- Traffic signals
Authorities believe these places helped the gang reach a large number of people throughout the day.
‘Combat Begging’ Campaign Intensifies
The arrests are connected to a bigger awareness campaign aimed at reducing illegal begging and protecting the public from deception.
Brigadier Ali Salem Al Shamsi, Director of the Suspicious Persons and Criminal Phenomena Department at Dubai Police, confirmed that the operation was performed under the “Combat Begging” campaign.
The campaign runs in cooperation with several government departments, including:
- General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai
- Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department Dubai
Officials say the initiative aims to protect the emirate’s social environment and stop organised exploitation of generosity.
Police also highlighted that many begging cases are not isolated cases. However, they are part of well-planned networks that operate across different locations.
Beggars Often Use Visit Visas During Ramadan
Authorities say countless begging cases appear during Ramadan due to people are more likely to donate and help those in need.
Earlier reports from Dubai Police indicated that around 90% of beggars arrested in the emirate enter the country on visit visas. Many choose Ramadan because residents are popular for their kindness during the holy month.
During the last investigation, officials shared several surprising cases discovered.
Examples:
- A beggar who owned three luxury cars while pretending to need help
- A suspect who finished begging during the day and left in a high-end vehicle
- Another person was caught with Dh20,000 in cash in a parking area after targeting drivers at traffic signals
These cases highlight how organised begging can generate significant illegal income.
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Online Begging and AI Scams Also Rising
Authorities warn that begging scams are not limited to streets. Digital platforms are also being used to trick people.
Police have reported an increase in electronic begging schemes, where scammers use technology to create emotional appeals online.
Some tactics:
- Fake medical emergencies
- Manipulated photos and videos
- Social media charity appeals are designed to trigger sympathy
In several cases, artificial intelligence tools were used to create convincing but false stories.
Officials warn residents to remain cautious and verify any online charity requests before donating.
How Residents Can Report Beggars in Dubai
Police motivate the public to report begging cases instead of giving money.
Residents and visitors can report suspicious activity through several official channels:
- Call the Dubai Police contact centre: 901
- Use the Police Eye feature on the Dubai Police Smart App
- Report online through the eCrime platform
Police say quick reporting helps authorities identify organised groups and prevent further exploitation.
Donate Through Official Channels
Officials stress that helping people in need should be done through recognised organisations.
Dubai authorities recommend donating through registered charities and official fundraising campaigns. It ensures that support reaches people and families who genuinely require assistance.
By avoiding street donations, residents can also help reduce organised begging networks.
FAQs
1. Why did Dubai Police arrest the begging gang?
Dubai Police arrested the group because they were allegedly involved in organised begging activities controlled by an overseas ringleader.
2. How many people were arrested in the Dubai begging gang case?
Authorities confirmed that 13 individuals were arrested as part of the operation.
3. Where do begging incidents usually occur in Dubai?
Police say beggars often operate near mosques, hospitals, clinics, markets, traffic signals, and busy streets.
4. How can residents report beggars in Dubai?
Residents can report incidents by calling 901, using the Police Eye feature on the Dubai Police app, or submitting a report through the eCrime platform.
5. Is giving money to beggars illegal in Dubai?
Authorities discourage giving money directly to beggars because many cases are linked to organised fraud networks. Donations should be made through official charities.
Conclusion
The recent operation shows how seriously Dubai authorities treat organised begging. The arrest of 13 suspects linked to a begging gang in Dubai run by an overseas ringleader highlights the scale of the issue and the methods used to exploit public sympathy.
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