Sharjah Police have issued a strong warning about the growing problem of street begging. They emphasized that for many, it has turned into a profession rather than a sign of real need. To prove this, authorities conducted a real-life experiment to show how much a beggar can earn in a short time.
In the experiment, a man was assigned to pose as a beggar on the streets of Sharjah. Within just one hour, he managed to collect Dh367 from passersby. The video, posted by Sharjah Police on social media, showed people approaching him and offering money. The shocking results highlight how beggars can make a fortune without being in real financial distress.
The police have urged residents not to give money directly to beggars. Instead, they encouraged people to donate through authorized charitable organizations. They also stressed the importance of reporting beggars to authorities. Residents can call 80040 or 901 to report such cases.
Begging is illegal in the UAE, and strict laws are in place to prevent it. Anyone caught begging can face a fine of Dh5,000 along with up to three months in prison. Additionally, those who organize begging rings or bring individuals from other countries to beg face even harsher penalties. They could be sentenced to six months in prison and fined Dh100,000.
Furthermore, raising funds without a proper permit is also a serious offense. Those who collect donations illegally can face fines of up to Dh500,000. Authorities continue to remind the public that giving through official channels ensures that help reaches those who truly need it. By following these guidelines, residents can contribute to society responsibly while preventing fraud.
