Beware Online Scammers During Ramadan 2026

Ramadan 2026: Beware of Online Begging Scams – Dubai Police Warns

The Month of Giving and the Risk of Fraud

Ramadan is a period of compassion, solidarity, and charity in the United Arab Emirates. During this time, people become more conscious of the needs of the underprivileged, paying zakat, sending donations, and preparing food packages. However, the strengthening of community responsibility unfortunately also comes with another phenomenon: some try to take advantage of goodwill.

Ahead of the 2026 Ramadan, the Dubai police have once again issued a firm warning against online begging scams. Authorities urge residents not to respond to suspicious donation requests, especially those that arrive via social media, messaging apps, or unknown websites.

The Legal Perspective on Online Begging in the UAE

UAE laws clearly state that online begging is a criminal offense. According to Article 51 of Federal Law 34/2021 on combating rumors and cybercrimes, anyone unlawfully soliciting money or donations using IT means can be punished with up to three months of imprisonment and a minimum fine of 10,000 dirhams.

The purpose of this regulation is not to reduce donations but to ensure that support truly reaches those in need through officially approved charitable organizations. Authorities emphasize that donations should be made through safe, transparent, and regulated channels.

The Methods of Fraudsters: Emotional Manipulation

Ramadan creates a special emotional environment. Fraudsters exploit this by posting heart-wrenching stories about severely ill children, families on the brink of eviction, and urgent surgical procedures. They often urge immediate transfers, claiming that help requires instant intervention.

In some cases, they request money in the name of fake charities or imitate the branding of existing foundations. Social media posts frequently exert emotional pressure: "If you don’t help now, it will be too late.” The goal is clear: to force quick decisions before verifying the authenticity of the information.

Organized Networks in the Background

Authorities report that these aren’t just individual attempts. Several cases have exposed organized begging networks operating within the UAE. During a past operation, Dubai police arrested 41 individuals who arrived on visitor visas and conducted organized begging activities. They used a hotel as their base and admitted to being part of a larger network.

In an experiment conducted in another emirate, an undercover police officer collected 367 dirhams in just one hour under the guise of begging, showcasing how some can exploit community empathy. Authorities clearly treat such activities as financial fraud.

How to Donate Safely?

The Dubai police and other authorities regularly emphasize that donations should only be made through officially authorized and registered charities. In the UAE, several state-supervised foundations and humanitarian organizations manage contributions transparently.

The principles of safe donation are simple. Never transfer money to an unknown bank account based on a social media message. Do not share your card details in a private message. Always verify whether the charity holds official authorization and is listed in the authorities' records.

The Role of Residents in Prevention

Authorities ask residents to actively cooperate in prevention. Suspicious cases can be reported on the 901 phone number, through the Police Eye service on Dubai Police’s smart app, or the E-Crime online platform.

Community responsibility manifests not only in donations but also in curbing fraud. Every report can help authorities act swiftly against organized networks.

The Spirit of Ramadan and Informed Decisions

The essence of Ramadan is purity, self-discipline, and responsibility towards others. Combating online begging scams is not about reducing compassion, but protecting it. Genuine help reaches its destination when it is channeled through secure means.

Dubai and UAE authorities launch campaigns every year to curb organized and individual begging, especially during Ramadan. The aim is clear: to preserve community trust and ensure that charity does not become a tool for scammers.

Awareness as Protection

Scams spreading in the online space are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Technological advancements provide opportunities for new forms of manipulation, but also equip authorities for detection. The most crucial defense tool remains public awareness.

If a story seems too emotional, too urgent, or too perfect, it's wise to pause. Genuine charity does not demand immediate, unchecked transfers. The spirit of Ramadan includes thoughtfulness and responsible decisions.

Ahead of Ramadan 2026, the message from Dubai police is clear: help, but wisely. Donate, but only through official channels. Compassion is a value we must collectively protect from abuse.