Christmas decorations are displayed at a storefront in Dubai. Picture for illustrative purposes only. EXPAT MEDIA

What many see as a harmless festive tradition can quickly turn into a legal problem in the UAE. Over the weekend, a group of people were spotted caroling for cash along Al Rigga Road in Dubai, apparently unaware that they were breaking the law. The area has been subject to repeated crackdowns by undercover police over unlicensed food vending, begging and illegal street performances. "I was near this supermarket near the metro station when a group of them, about five, came up to me and asked if they could sing a carol. I said, please don't. I guess they didn't know it's not allowed," a resident told Expat Media, adding that it is not the first time that carolers have approached people this way. Under UAE law, caroling in public — especially when money is collected — can be classified as illegal fundraising, unauthorised public entertainment and a form of begging. In the UAE, any form of charity or fundraising campaign requires official approval, and public performances also need permits from the relevant authorities. Authorities have repeatedly reminded residents that begging and unauthorised fundraising are criminal offences in the UAE, carrying penalties ranging from hefty fines to jail time and deportation.

Caroling for cash can fall under begging or illegal fundraising

While many people associate begging with individuals asking directly for money, the law is broader. Performing in public spaces and soliciting cash — even through singing, music or festive activities — may be considered begging or illegal fundraising if done without permission. According to the UAE Public Prosecution, begging is a criminal offence. “Whoever commits the crime of begging by soliciting a material benefit in kind, of any form or by any means, shall be sentenced to a duration of not more than three months in jail, and fined a monetary penalty of not less than Dh5,000,” the Public Prosecution said. Offenders may also face deportation after serving their sentence. Penalties become more severe if the individual is found to be feigning disability or injury, has another source of income, claims false services, or uses deception to draw sympathy from the public. Organised begging is treated even more seriously. “Whoever manages the crime of organised begging that is committed by an organised group of two or more persons shall be sentenced to imprisonment for a duration of not less than six months, and fined a monetary penalty of not less than Dh100,000,” the Public Prosecution said. Members of such syndicates face jail time and fines of at least Dh5,000. Using children in begging operations is classified as exploitation, a serious offence that can result in jail time and fines of not less than Dh20,000 for the responsible adult.

Illegal fundraising carries heavier fines

Collecting donations without authorisation is also strictly prohibited in the UAE. Cash donations must be channelled only through licensed and authorised entities such as the Emirates Red Crescent or other approved charities. Dubai Police have repeatedly warned against illegal fundraising, stressing that anyone caught collecting or promoting donations without a licence can face severe penalties. Under UAE federal decree law, individuals or organisations that establish, manage or operate websites, social media pages or online campaigns to solicit donations without approval may face imprisonment and fines ranging from Dh200,000 to Dh500,000, or both. The law also applies to social media. Posting, sharing or promoting fundraising campaigns online without a permit is considered a criminal offence, even if the cause appears charitable. Authorities have made it clear that no individual or group may host, organise or carry out fundraising activities aimed at collecting money from the public without prior approval. This rule applies even to licensed entities that violate the terms of their permits. Charitable activities must be conducted through authorised organisations, and approval from the Ministry of Community Development is required before any group, non-profit association or authority can solicit funds.

Public performances also require permits

Beyond fundraising laws, caroling and other live performances fall under public entertainment regulations in the UAE. Entertainers and performers are required to obtain official permits before performing in public or semi-public spaces. In Dubai, this typically means securing an Events & Performance Permit or Activity Permit through the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Applications are submitted through the DET e-Permit portal and require details such as performer passport copies, venue approvals and event information. Fees vary depending on the nature and duration of the performance. Similar temporary permit systems exist in other emirates, including Abu Dhabi’s TAMM platform. In general, all paid or donation-based performances must be licensed well in advance.

How to report illegal fundraising

Authorities urge residents to report suspicious fundraising activities to help protect the public and maintain trust in legitimate charities. Reports can be made through the following hotlines: • Abu Dhabi: 999 or 8002626 (800Aman), SMS 2828 • Dubai: 901 or 800243 or 8004888 • Sharjah: 901 or 80040 or 06 5632222 • Ajman: 06 7034310 • Ras Al Khaimah: 07 2053372 • Fujairah: 09 2051100 or 09 2224411 • Umm Al Quwain: 999 Authorities stress that these regulations are not meant to discourage generosity, but to ensure that donations are collected and distributed transparently and safely, protecting both donors and beneficiaries. For residents planning festive activities, the reminder is clear: even well-meaning traditions like caroling must follow UAE laws, permits and licensing requirements. ICA/Expat Media
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