Dubai Police have intensified warnings against beggars and itinerant butchers during the Eid Al Adha holiday season, revealing that 50 violators were arrested during last year’s campaign.
Authorities said the crackdown forms part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal activities that exploit public generosity and threaten public health during religious holidays.
Ali Salem Al Shamsi said police are closely monitoring increasingly sophisticated methods used by beggars to prey on public sympathy.
The “Anti-Begging” campaign, launched in coordination with strategic partners, focuses on enforcement operations and public awareness programs aimed at curbing begging and related illegal activities.
Dubai Police said the campaign targets both traditional and digital forms of begging, including solicitation in mosques, markets, and majlis gatherings, as well as electronic begging through social media and online platforms.
Authorities warned that some fraudsters falsely claim to be collecting donations for humanitarian causes or mosque construction projects abroad.
Brig. Al Shamsi said begging activities usually intensify during Ramadan and religious holidays as scammers attempt to exploit the generosity of residents.
He added that some beggars use emotionally manipulative tactics involving children, sick individuals, and people of determination to gain sympathy from the public.
Police also revealed that several women had previously been arrested for using children while begging.
Dubai Police stressed that begging in all forms is punishable under UAE law and warned that many operations are part of organized schemes designed to deceive residents for financial gain.
Authorities urged the public to channel donations only through officially recognized charitable organizations and licensed humanitarian bodies.
Dubai Police also renewed warnings against itinerant butchers operating during Eid Al Adha, citing serious health concerns linked to unregulated slaughter practices.
According to Brig. Al Shamsi, many itinerant butchers operate in unsanitary conditions and repeatedly use unsterilized tools while moving from house to house, increasing the risk of contamination and disease transmission.
Authorities urged residents to avoid unlicensed butchers and instead use approved slaughterhouses and authorized service providers.
Dubai Police said reports involving beggars or itinerant butchers may be submitted through the toll-free number 901 or via the “Police Eye” service on the Dubai Police smart application. Cases involving electronic begging may also be reported through the e-Crime platform.
