Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The UAE Public Prosecution has warned anew against collecting donations without a licence. Fundraising is illegal in the UAE if done without a permit issued by authorities. It also extends to social media posts promoting fundraising activities without a licence. The UAE Public Prosecution cited the UAE federal decree law stating that “any person who establishes, manages or runs a website or publishes information online or through any information technology means to call for or promote the collection of donations without a licence issued by the competent authority shall face imprisonment and a fine of not less than Dh200,000 and not more than Dh500,000 or either of these two penalties.” According to the Ministry of Community Development, it is illegal for any individual to host, organize or carry out any fundraising activity with the aim of collecting or accepting funds from the public by any means. Fundraising activities must also be carried out through charitable organisations. Only after receiving approval from the Ministry of Community Development are charitable groups, federal and local authorities, and non-profit associations allowed to solicit funds. According to the UAE law, there are two types of charity entities – licensed and authorized by laws, decisions, or decrees to collect, provide, and receive donations, and those permitted to apply for licenses to raise money through UAE-listed charitable organizations. ICA/Expat Media
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