Technology against crime

RThe UAE encourages global collaboration in leveraging technologies to stay ahead of criminals who harness new technologies for nefarious purposes

amadan signifies a period of spiritual reflection, where our Muslim brothers and sisters set aside the daily pace of life to deepen their Islamic faith and values such as generosity and compassion. However, amidst this sacred occasion, there's a surge in beggar activity, prompting the UAE police to remind the public that begging is a criminal offence. In the emirate of Dubai, for example, 90 per cent of apprehended beggars in the past few years consider begging as their “profession”. And most of them fabricated stories to elicit sympathy and amass substantial amounts of money each day. The UAE'S law enforcement alerts us to the fact that funds obtained through begging often fuel illicit transnational activities—including drug smuggling, human trafficking, and terrorism. The link between begging and transborder crimes underscores the interconnectedness of global issues. Recognising this, the UAE, through initiatives like the World Police Summit, encourages global collaboration in leveraging technologies to stay ahead of criminals who harness new technologies for nefarious purposes. Another pressing concern affecting cities worldwide is noise pollution. In the UAE, authorities are implementing multi-pronged strategies to tackle loud vehicle disturbances. Advanced technologies such as noise radar technology, pioneered by Abu Dhabi Police, augment noise monitoring and policing. Stringent penalties, including hefty fines and black traffic points, serve as deterrents against driving loud vehicles. As you may know, the UAE has a rich seafaring heritage and the authorities are increasing efforts to ensure its maritime safety, especially for sailors, divers, and water sports enthusiasts. It's essential to acknowledge the hazards lurking beneath the surface of the seas. In our cover story, 999 provides insights into the most common sea emergencies and pre-departure protocols. The sanctity of one's home should be sacrosanct, yet some employers jeopardise this—their own home and the safety of their own family—by hiring undocumented household help. 999 provides the correct legal procedures and compliance for hiring domestic workers. Furthermore, the formative years of children within families play a crucial role in shaping their character and behaviour. Parents and guardians are encouraged to equip themselves with the right information about various neurodevelopmental, mental, and psychological conditions affecting children—enabling them to provide appropriate support and care. As we welcome Eid Al Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, many people in the country seek respite from the summer heat by travelling abroad. This time, why not explore the hidden treasures within the UAE itself? Instead of ticking off overseas destinations from your bucket list, consider embarking on a road trip to gain a deeper appreciation for the country's rich cultural heritage and beauty. In our Tips & Trivia section, we've listed exciting UAE destinations that are just a car or bus ride away. May this period be filled with peace, reflection, and spiritual growth for all.