UAE Arrests 10 Pakistani Nationals for Begging, Including Five Women

8 individuals are from Punjab, and the rest are from KP.

By DTD- On Mar 27, 2025

DUBAI – Authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have arrested 10 Pakistani nationals, including five women, in various operations aimed at curbing begging in public places across the country. The arrests were made after the UAE police issued a warning to residents urging them not to give money to beggars who are reportedly seen in streets, mosques, and other public areas.

According to sources in the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), three women from Vehari district in Punjab — Amna Bibi, Kausar Bibi, and Farzana Bibi — along with Jameela Bibi and Zubaida Bibi from Lahore, were detained while begging and are currently in jail. They are in the process of being prepared for deportation back to Pakistan.

In addition to the women, five Pakistani men were also arrested in similar operations for begging. The men include Muhammad Zakariya from Dera Ghazi Khan, Waseem Haider from Bahawalnagar, Muhammad Usman from Lahore, Ijaz Khan from Charsadda, and Abdullah from Peshawar. Emergency passports have been issued for their repatriation to Pakistan, where they will face legal action upon arrival.

Pakistani authorities have been informed about the arrests, and the deportation process is underway.

This crackdown follows a series of measures taken by the UAE to combat illegal migration and criminal activities. Earlier this month, the UAE banned 52,520 Pakistani nationals from traveling abroad due to concerns related to illegal migration, deportation, and criminal activities. Among those barred are individuals previously deported from the United States, European nations, and Middle Eastern countries, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Deportation figures indicate that 4,210 beggars were deported from Saudi Arabia, and 1,546 deportees have been placed under travel bans. Additionally, 331 beggars deported from various countries have also been restricted from international travel. Furthermore, 46,433 individuals who served prison sentences in the UAE have been prohibited from traveling abroad due to security concerns.