As the spirit of giving intensifies during Ramadan, UAE authorities have raised an urgent alarm over a rise in online begging and fraudulent fundraising campaigns. Cybercriminals are exploiting the holy month’s generosity by targeting unsuspecting donors with deceptive tactics. The UAE Cybersecurity Council urges residents to stay vigilant, ensuring their contributions reach legitimate recipients through secure and verified channels.

Rise in Fraudulent Appeals

Since the beginning of Ramadan, several UAE citizens and residents have received messages on websites and social media platforms seeking donations to unknown bank accounts. These appeals often claim to support the poor, orphans, the sick, or communities in need, as well as contribute to Iftar meals.

In response, the Ministry of Community Empowerment has urged the public to report any unauthorised fundraising campaigns or suspicious donation channels — whether online or on social media — by contacting the helpline at 800623.

Penalties for Unauthorised Fundraising

The UAE Public Prosecution has emphasised the severe penalties for promoting or organising fundraising activities without the necessary license. Individuals found guilty of operating a website, supervising one, or publishing online content to solicit donations without proper authorisation — or in violation of approved licensing conditions – could face imprisonment and fines ranging from Dh200,000 to Dh500,000.

Case of Online Fraud

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department highlighted a real-life case on its “X” account, where an individual created a WhatsApp group called “The Path to Goodness.” Multiple members were added, and messages were sent claiming, “Dear benefactors, I know a family of orphans whose eldest brother is struggling with debt due to their financial burdens.” He then encouraged donations to a specified bank account. However, instead of using the funds for charity, he withdrew the money to purchase illegal substances.

“Donate Safely” Campaign

To combat fraud, the Ministry of Community Empowerment has launched its “Donate Safely and Protect Your Money from Exploitation” campaign. This initiative encourages donors to verify the legitimacy of fundraising organisations before contributing and comply with Federal Law No. 3 of 2021, which regulates fundraising activities and protects donor funds. The ministry urges the public to report unauthorised donation campaigns or suspicious activities via the helpline.

Tips to Avoid Online Fraud

The UAE Cybersecurity Council has outlined five key tips to help individuals avoid phishing scams and identify fraudulent donation schemes:

1. Verify official channels – Always check the official social media accounts of companies or charitable organisations before donating.
2. Be wary of unrealistic offers – Avoid exaggerated deals, unrealistic discounts, or suspiciously low prices.
3. Protect personal information – Never share personal details via email or text messages.
4. Confirm caller identity – In the UAE, companies must use verified caller IDs. Do not share sensitive information with unidentified callers.

UAE Law on Fundraising

According to a legal expert, UAE regulations require organisations to obtain prior authorisation before launching donation drives. These regulations ensure transparency by specifying:

• The licensed charitable organisation responsible for collecting donations.
• The clear purpose of the fundraising campaign, including fund allocation and beneficiaries.
• Approved methods and platforms for fundraising.
• The campaign’s duration and operational costs are deducted by the organising charity.

Individuals are strictly prohibited from launching donation campaigns on social media without official authorisation, ensuring funds reach legitimate recipients.

UAE’s Federal Law on Anti-Begging

According to Federal Law by Decree No. 31 of 2021 Promulgating the Crimes and Penalties Law, anyone caught begging in the UAE faces a fine of Dh5,000 and up to three months of imprisonment. Those operating organised begging rings or recruiting individuals from abroad for begging can face a minimum fine of Dh100,000 and a jail term of at least six months.

The law aims to:

• Preserve the UAE’s image.
• Protect society from scams.
• Combat begging and organised begging networks.

At the discretion of the UAE’s Public Prosecution, individuals accused of begging but qualifying for social welfare may be referred to the Ministry of Community Development or relevant local authority for social support or vocational training.

Reporting Beggars

Authorities urge the public to report instances of begging through the following channels:

• Abu Dhabi: Call 999 or 8002626 (800Aman), SMS 2828, or email aman@adpolice.gov.ae.
• Dubai: Call 901, 800243, or 8004888.
• Sharjah: Call 901, 06-5632222, or 06-5631111.
• Ras Al Khaimah: Call 07-2053372.
• Ajman: Call 06-7034310.
• Umm Al Quwain: Call 999.
• Fujairah: Call 09-2051100 or 09-2224411.

Authorities continue to emphasise the importance of donating through verified channels to ensure funds reach those in genuine need and to protect individuals from financial exploitation.

(Source: GN, www.u.ae/)

Dubai is rolling out a warm welcome for visitors this Ramadan with two special initiatives introduced by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

Upon arrival at Dubai’s air and land ports, travellers will have their passports stamped with a unique ‘Ramadan In Dubai’ logo, designed by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office.

Additionally, visitors will receive complimentary SIM cards, provided in collaboration with telecom partner du, ensuring they stay connected throughout their visit.

As part of the initiative, travelers will also be given access to the ‘Ramadan Events in Dubai’ guide through a QR code. This interactive guide offers insights into traditional celebrations, cultural events, and family-friendly activities across the city during the Holy Month.

The initiative falls under the ‘Ramadan In Dubai’ campaign, spearheaded by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. More than 20 entities across Dubai have collaborated to bring Ramadan’s festive spirit to life.

Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Marri, Director-General of GDRFA, highlighted that these efforts aim to enhance Dubai’s reputation as a global tourism hub by providing exceptional hospitality and memorable experiences for visitors.

The ‘Ramadan Events in Dubai’ guide is available in English and Arabic and can be accessed online at Dubai Destinations Guide.

Dubai’s Ramadan campaign showcases the city’s vibrant festive atmosphere during the holy month.

(Wam)

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is going high-tech with a brand-new AI-powered traffic signal system designed to keep the city’s traffic flowing smoothly. The upgrade, set to be completed in early 2026, promises to cut congestion on the roads by 20 per cent, making gridlock a thing of the past.

Announcing the news on X (formerly Twitter), the RTA revealed that the smart signals will predict traffic flow and adjust timings on the go, using cutting-edge digital twin technology. The system will also prioritise certain vehicles and use real-time data from road sensors to keep the city’s roads running smoothly.

Hussain Al Banna, CEO of Traffic and Roads Agency at RTA, stated: “This project aligns with RTA’s vision as The World Leader in Seamless and Sustainable Mobility by improving journey time and reducing traffic congestion at intersections by 10% to 20%. It aims to enhance the travel experience for all road users, including motorists, public transport passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists, while also prioritising emergency vehicles and public transport.”

Meanwhile, the RTA has also inked deals with nine major developers and free zone authorities to turbocharge Dubai’s road network. Big names like Emaar, DAMAC, and Majid Al Futtaim are on board, ensuring that new projects meet top-tier standards while fast-tracking infrastructure approvals.

The agreements aim to create a unified platform for approving infrastructure project requests and managing activities within the right-of-way and public roads. They also seek to enhance road safety, improve service levels, and ensure that development projects adhere to the highest standards and regulations set by the relevant authorities.

Bader Al Siri, the RTA’s top traffic boss, said the partnerships would keep Dubai’s roads world-class and make sure the city stays ahead of the game.

(Source: RTA)