Abu Dhabi Police warn against Ramadan beggars

The 'No to Begging' campaign was launched ahead of Ramadan, due to the increased presence of beggars in the UAE during the holy month.

Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters has launched an extensive social media initiative called “No to Begging”.

Implemented as a joint project between the Office of Deputy Prime Minister and the Ministry of Interior, the campaign offers information about the risks involved with beggars.

The campaign was launched ahead of Ramadan, due to the increased presence of beggars in the UAE during the holy month.

The police are exerting significant efforts to “combat this social affliction, through crackdown campaigns and awareness initiatives designed to eradicate this objectionable behaviour”, said Maj Gen Omair Al Muhairi.

He urged the community to make charitable donations through appropriate channels, and support sanctioned humanitarian efforts during Ramadan.

He said begging “detracts from the civilised image of society and endangers community members as some beggars commit robberies under the guise of begging”.

Security Media will publish advice about the risks using Abu Dhabi Police social media channels.

They will also promote the campaign on shopping mall display screens and during Friday sermons, in cooperation with the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments.