Fundraising for charitable causes is an important part of community life, and many people in the UAE are eager to support those in need. However, the UAE has strict laws governing how donations may be collected, promoted, or transferred. These rules are designed to protect the public, prevent fraud, and ensure that charitable funds reach the right beneficiaries.
In February 2026, the UAE Public Prosecution issued a reminder that promoting or managing fundraising activities without an authorised licence is a criminal offence. This announcement forms part of the government’s wider effort to raise awareness about safe and lawful charitable practices.
Why Fundraising Requires a Licence
Under UAE law, only approved charities and licensed organisations are permitted to collect donations. This includes both traditional fundraising and online campaigns. The purpose of the licensing system is to ensure transparency, prevent misuse of funds, and protect donors from fraudulent schemes.
The Public Prosecution highlighted that anyone who creates, manages, or supervises a fundraising activity, whether through a website, social media platform, or digital application must hold a valid licence. Even posting information that encourages others to donate can fall under this requirement.
Legal Penalties for Unlicensed Fundraising
Unlicensed fundraising is punishable under Article 46 of Federal Decree‑Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combating Rumours and Cybercrime. The law applies to:
- Individuals
- Social media users
- Community groups
- Businesses
- Online platforms
Penalties may include fines, imprisonment, or both, depending on the seriousness of the violation. The Public Prosecution emphasised that good intentions do not exempt individuals from legal responsibility. Even collecting money on behalf of a friend, family member, or community cause can lead to liability if done without proper authorisation.
Digital Platforms and Social Media: A High‑Risk Area
Many fundraising activities today take place online. People often share donation links, crowdfunding pages, or personal appeals on social media. The UAE authorities have warned that posting or sharing unlicensed fundraising content is itself a violation, even if the person sharing the content is not the organiser.
The National Committee for Combating Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism has also issued repeated warnings about the risks of informal fundraising, particularly when funds are transferred across borders or through unregulated channels.
How to Fundraise Legally in the UAE
To ensure compliance, individuals and organisations must:
- Work only with licensed charities approved by the UAE authorities
- Obtain the necessary permits before launching any fundraising campaign
- Avoid sharing unverified donation links or appeals
- Use official channels for charitable giving
Licensed charities in the UAE follow strict governance and reporting standards, ensuring that donations are used responsibly and reach the intended beneficiaries.
Why These Rules Matter
The UAE’s strict approach to fundraising is designed to:
- Protect donors from fraud
- Prevent funds from being diverted to illegal activities
- Ensure transparency in charitable work
- Maintain public trust in the charitable sector
By regulating fundraising activities, the UAE ensures that charitable giving remains safe, effective, and aligned with national security and financial integrity standards.
Conclusion
Fundraising is a noble act, but it must be done through the proper legal channels. The UAE’s laws make it clear that unlicensed fundraising, whether online or offline is a criminal offence, even when carried out with good intentions. Individuals and organisations should always verify that they are working with authorised entities before collecting or promoting donations.
At Ayesha Al Dhaheri Advocates and Legal Consultants, our team advises clients on compliance with UAE cybercrime laws, charitable regulations, and financial‑crime prevention. We help individuals, businesses, and community groups understand their legal obligations and avoid unintentional violations. If you have questions about fundraising rules or require guidance on obtaining the proper licences, we are here to support you with clear and reliable legal advice.