Crime

Ramadan scam alert: UAE warns against fraud donation appeals

Published

3 months ago

March 12, 2025

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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:

Verify official channels – Always check the official social media accounts of companies or charitable organisations before donating.
Be wary of unrealistic offers – Avoid exaggerated deals, unrealistic discounts, or suspiciously low prices.
Protect personal information – Never share personal details via email or text messages.
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/)

Crime

UAE: Up to Dh2 million for social media violations under new media rules

Published

3 weeks ago

May 30, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Individuals promoting content or advertising on social media in the UAE will soon need to follow stricter rules under a new comprehensive regulatory system introduced by the UAE Media Council.

The new framework, announced this week, is designed to build public trust, protect viewers, especially children and adolescents, and raise the quality of online media content. It also outlines heavy penalties for violations, with fines reaching up to Dh1 million for first-time offences and up to Dh2 million for repeat breaches. In serious cases, violators could face temporary or permanent shutdowns, along with permit revocations.

“The new system transforms the way the media sector is regulated and developed,” said Mohammed Saeed Al Shehhi, Secretary-General of the UAE Media Council.

“It combines updated legislation, comprehensive services, and forward-looking policies to support sustainable growth.”

Fee exemptions and local support

To encourage creativity and responsible content creation, the council announced a three-year exemption from permit fees for individuals and influencers who promote content online. This is part of a broader move to support Emirati talent and creative industries, with similar exemptions offered to local media services, producers, and writers whose work promotes national identity.

The initiative builds on last year’s Media Regulation Law and its Executive Regulation, and aims to stimulate growth in the sector while maintaining strong ethical and professional standards.

New age-rating and licensing systems

A key feature of the new regulations includes a media age-rating system, ensuring that content shared online is appropriate for different age groups, especially young viewers.

The council is also developing a new licensing policy for digital news platforms, with a focus on enhancing credibility and journalistic standards. The goal is to create a balanced legal environment that supports responsible reporting while safeguarding freedom of expression.

The updated system also outlines resolutions related to media service fees, violations, and administrative penalties, offering clearer guidelines for all stakeholders in the media landscape.

Business

UAE Central Bank fines exchange house Dh200 million for major violations

Published

1 month ago

May 21, 2025

Michael Gomes

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The Central Bank of the UAE has fined an exchange house Dh200 million for breaking key rules meant to stop money laundering and the funding of terrorism.

The fine comes after a detailed investigation, which found serious problems in how the exchange house followed these important financial laws.

In a separate action, one of the branch managers was also fined Dh500,000 and banned from working in any UAE-licensed financial institutions in the future.

The Central Bank said these steps are part of its ongoing mission to keep the country’s financial system clean, transparent, and well-regulated.

Crime

Jet ski violations in Dubai could cost you Dh5,000, police warn

Published

1 month ago

May 12, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Dubai Police have issued a strong warning to jet ski rental companies and users after a major inspection at Fishing Harbour 3 uncovered multiple safety and licensing violations. The Ports Police Station confiscated 32 unfit jet skis and recorded 39 violations during the campaign, which is part of a broader effort to ensure marine safety and regulate rental practices. Offenders face fines of up to Dh5,000.

Fines of up to Dh5,000 can be issued for using unlicensed or unsafe watercraft, operating with expired licences, or obstructing inspectors. Officials stressed that failure to follow marine safety rules can put lives at risk and result in serious penalties.

The Ports Police Station launched the campaign to make sure jet ski businesses are following safety rules and rental procedures properly. Some watercraft were seized for being damaged, involved in past accidents, or unfit for use.

Brigadier Dr Hassan Suhail Al Suwaidi, Director of the Ports Police Station, said the move is part of wider efforts to keep Dubai’s waters safe for residents and tourists.

Common Violations Included:

Failing to maintain or check jet skis regularly
Missing or unclear rental contracts
Lack of digital documentation
Operating in restricted areas

Fines and Penalties:

Dh5,000 for using an unlicensed or unsafe watercraft
Dh1,000 for expired licences
Dh5,000 for blocking inspectors during checks

Brigadier Al Suwaidi reminded all rental firms to ensure their jet skis are safe, well-maintained, and operated according to the law. He also called for clear contracts and strict safety checks before and after every rental.