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Beggars in Dubai with visit visas to be deported for harassing Metro users for money

The Dubai Criminal Court has convicted two beggars on visit visa in Dubai for harassing Metro users for money. An Asian man and woman were found guilty after targeting people in the Naif area of Dubai. They were given a one-month prison term, and after serving their sentence, they were to be deported. According to the UAE Federal Law, penalties are imposed on “whoever is caught begging to obtain a physical or in-kind benefit by any form or means.” UAE prohibits begging because it threatens public safety and security. Begging is associated with theft and pickpocketing and is considered a crime. Police records stated that patrol officers saw the man and woman begging on the streets. The officers identified them as visitors after interrogating them. The accused confessed that a local person helped them obtain a visit visa and chose begging as their source of income while in the country. They also admitted that they would use the money obtained from begging to start a business when they returned to their country. The man and woman were found with Dh191 and Dh161 in their possession. They collected that amount for a short period from harassing Metro users. The police have repeatedly advised the public to report beggars to the Police Eye service via the Dubai Police application or contact the toll-free number 901. KD/Expat Media
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