How Beggars in the UAE Make More Than You in an Hour?

Beggars have long been a part of urban landscapes, appealing to the kindness of strangers for survival. However, in countries like the UAE, begging has evolved into an organized, highly profitable scheme. Authorities in Sharjah and Dubai have issued stern warnings about the rise of professional beggars and well-coordinated begging networks, particularly during Ramadan when charitable giving increases significantly. With shocking revelations about the earnings of these individuals and their subsequent deportation, the crackdown on this practice is gaining momentum.

Begging as a Lucrative Business in the UAE

It’s hard to believe that some beggars make more in an hour than many workers do in a day. A recent police experiment in Sharjah exposed the reality of this underground economy. A disguised officer, posing as a beggar, managed to collect AED 367 in just one hour. If you do the math, this means a single individual could potentially make over AED 2,900 in an eight-hour “workday.” Such figures are staggering, especially in comparison to the UAE’s minimum wage for workers in various industries.

Videos of beggars collecting large sums have gone viral, showcasing how passersby hand out money without hesitation. While many donors believe they are supporting those in genuine need, authorities have consistently warned that a significant portion of these beggars are part of well-organized syndicates that exploit people’s generosity.

The Crackdown on Begging Networks

Dubai Police have ramped up their efforts to curb this issue. In the first ten days of Ramadan alone, they arrested over two dozen beggars from various nationalities. The crackdown is part of a broader campaign to dismantle begging rings that operate under the guise of poverty.

For context, begging is a criminal offense in the UAE, with severe penalties in place. Individual beggars face up to three months in jail and a fine of AED 5,000. However, those found orchestrating or recruiting for begging networks are subject to even harsher consequences—six months in prison and a hefty fine of AED 100,000.

The International Begging Network: How Beggars Travel Abroad

The UAE is not the only country grappling with professional beggars. Reports have surfaced about individuals traveling from countries like Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh on visit visas solely to beg. These individuals often arrive under the pretense of tourism or visiting relatives but instead engage in organized begging. Many are backed by middlemen who arrange their travel, accommodations, and even assign them prime locations where foot traffic is high.

Shockingly, some beggars are said to make enough money to send significant remittances back home. In certain cases, families see begging abroad as a better financial opportunity than traditional labor jobs. While the UAE is a hotspot due to its affluence and charitable culture, similar instances have been observed in countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and even parts of Europe.

Deportation of Beggars: A Harsh Reality

Given the seriousness of the situation, UAE authorities have made it clear that foreign beggars will face immediate deportation upon arrest. Law enforcement agencies coordinate with immigration authorities to ensure that individuals caught engaging in begging are not only jailed but also sent back to their home countries with bans preventing re-entry.

In some cases, entire groups of beggars have been deported together, highlighting the scale of the issue. This not only disrupts the operations of begging syndicates but also serves as a deterrent to others who may consider traveling to the UAE for the same purpose.

Why Authorities Urge the Public Not to Give to Beggars

Authorities continuously stress the importance of responsible charity. Instead of handing money directly to beggars, residents are encouraged to donate to registered charities and organizations that genuinely assist those in need. These charities ensure that aid reaches the right individuals—whether through food, shelter, or employment opportunities—without fueling illegal begging rings.

Moreover, social services in the UAE provide support to those genuinely in distress, making it unnecessary for anyone to resort to begging. Yet, the persistence of professional beggars indicates that for many, this is not about survival but rather an easy way to make quick money.

Final Thoughts: Combating the Business of Begging

The UAE’s crackdown on beggars and their subsequent deportation is a clear indication that authorities are taking a firm stance against this growing issue. While generosity is an admirable trait, it is crucial for people to channel their charitable acts through legitimate means.

With stricter penalties, increased surveillance, and public awareness campaigns, the hope is that organized begging will eventually decline. Until then, the responsibility also lies with residents and visitors to ensure their goodwill is not exploited by those turning begging into a business.

The next time you come across a beggar on the streets of Dubai or Sharjah, remember: the most impactful way to help is by supporting verified organizations that are truly making a difference.