Dubai Police have arrested 22 people accused of operating as an organised begging group and targeting motorists on major roads across the emirate. The arrests followed a tip-off submitted through the Police Eye service on the Dubai Police application, which helped authorities identify and investigate the group.
According to Dubai Police, the suspects approached motorists on busy roads and attempted to gain their sympathy by claiming that they were stranded and needed money to pay for travel expenses. The initial report alerted police to people stopping or approaching drivers with such requests.
Following the tip-off, specialised police teams began search and investigation operations. Officers identified one of the suspected individuals and monitored his movements. The investigation subsequently indicated that the activity was not an isolated case but involved a larger group operating across several locations in Dubai.
Police said the group operated at several major locations, including Al Khor Street, Ras Al Khor, the Bu Kadra Bridge area and the Dubai-Al Ain Road bridge. These locations are among the busy road areas where approaching motorists or stopping vehicles can create additional risks for road users.
After surveillance and information-gathering operations were completed, authorities developed a security plan to apprehend those involved. The operation resulted in the arrest of all 22 members of the group, and legal procedures were initiated against them, according to Dubai Police.
Dubai Police also highlighted the importance of public cooperation in identifying illegal activities. The investigation began with information submitted through the Police Eye service, demonstrating how reports from members of the public can assist authorities in identifying suspected offences and locating individuals involved.
The police urged residents and motorists to report suspected cases of begging through official channels rather than directly engaging with people approaching them on busy roads. The Police Eye service is available through the Dubai Police application, and authorities said reports submitted through the service are handled confidentially.
Authorities also warned motorists about the road-safety risks associated with stopping to give money in busy areas. Pulling over in an unsafe location or interacting with people on major roads and bridges can potentially place motorists, pedestrians and other road users at risk.
Begging is prohibited under UAE law. According to The National, individuals convicted of begging can face a fine of at least Dh5,000 and up to three months in prison. The penalties are more severe for organised begging operations: operating a professional gang of beggars or bringing people into the UAE for the purpose of begging carries a minimum six-month prison sentence and a fine of at least Dh100,000.
Dubai Police have previously carried out campaigns targeting begging and related activities. In February 2026, authorities reported the arrest of a man found with Dh20,000 who had allegedly targeted drivers of luxury vehicles at traffic lights and parking areas. Police have also encouraged residents to use official charitable organisations when providing financial assistance.
The latest arrests are part of Dubai’s broader enforcement efforts against begging and activities that authorities say can involve fraudulent appeals for money. Police have urged the public to remain cautious when approached with requests for financial assistance and to use authorised charitable channels when making donations.
The arrest of the 22-member group also highlights the role of community reporting in supporting law enforcement. Dubai Police have asked residents to report suspected begging and other illegal activities through the Police Eye service so that specialised teams can investigate and take appropriate action.
