Ramadan 2024 in UAE: Practice compassion by donating to these charities and initiatives

UAE residents started observing the holy month of Ramadan on March 11, just like people in several other countries across the globe. In addition to fasting and offering prayers, generosity is also a crucial element for Muslims during the period.

Emirati authorities have issued instructions to help people better understand permissible and prohibited charitable practices during Ramadan. Residents are required to make their donations through licenced charitable organisations only.

The Ministry of Community Development has clarified that rules permit an individual to support and assist his/her family members and friends in need. UAE residents can also take care of the requirements of people within their neighbourhoods.

Distributing Iftar meals in mosques and neighbourhoods is not banned. In addition, restaurants can accept donations to prepare meals but are not authorised to distribute them independently – they must coordinate with charitable organisations for such activities.

People can report suspected violations to the ministry’s call centre through 800623 for legal considerations. Punishments encompass imprisonment and/or fines raging from Dh200,000 to Dh500,000, according to Khaleej Times.

Be part of charitable initiatives this Ramadan

1. Dubai Cares

Dubai Cares has launched a Ramadan fundraising campaign to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza. Your donations will go towards providing food baskets, hot meals and essential shelters. Visit dubaicares.ae to make your donation.

A big thanks to the #GazaInOurHearts Campaign Supporters: @arnnewscentre @dutweets @eAndUAE @HillsAdvertisin @itpmediagroup

All funds raised through this campaign will be directed to @AneraOrg , Dubai Cares’ implementing partner in Gaza.

شكر كبير لشركاء حملة #غزة_في_القلب، بما… pic.twitter.com/fd0WqcRvUu

— Dubai Cares (@DubaiCares) March 16, 2024

2. World Food Programme

Your contributions to the World Food Programme’s Ramadan campaign will help combat hunger, supporting more than 95 million people in urgent need globally. Visit wfp.org to lend a helping hand and be a part of an impactful initiative.

Join us in spreading the joy of giving this Ramadan!🌙✨
Share a meal with people in need through our app and make a difference in someone's life today.
Download ShareTheMeal now from the @AppStore and be a part of the movement: https://t.co/s7UOMfwkX2#Ramadan #DiscoverTogether pic.twitter.com/0rhKSDG8Yy

— ShareTheMeal – UN World Food Programme (@ShareTheMealorg) March 16, 2024

3. UAE Food Bank

The UAE Food Bank seeks to provide meals to beneficiaries locally and internationally, providing an average of 166,666 meals every day. There are several initiatives to support, such as ‘Your Iftar is on Us’, ‘Iftar with Workers’ and ‘Donate a Food Parcel’.

#UAEFoodBank launches initiative during Ramadan, to gather & distribute over 5 million meals to deserving individuals through collaborative efforts with partners. pic.twitter.com/oyevR7AKCb

— UAEFoodBank (@UAE_foodbank) March 15, 2024

4. Dubai Charity Associations

Dubai Charity Associations is running a prominent initiative focusing on humanitarian projects. From ‘Iftar Sayim (Dh15) to Orphan’s Joy (Dh200), your generous contributions will support various aspects of community development.

5. Al-Ayn Social Care Foundation UK

This Ramadan 2024, Al-Ayn Social Care Foundation UK is ensuring that orphaned families experiencing poverty in Afghanistan, Iraq and Ghana have access to nutritious food. Visit Al-Ayn.co.uk to provide food baskets and freshly cooked meals for Iftar and Suhoor.

This Ramadan, with your support, orphaned children and their families in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Ghana will receive high-quality food baskets tailored to their specific needs during this holy month. pic.twitter.com/gpAeTEFpDh

— Al-Ayn Social Care Foundation (@alaynUK) March 17, 2024

Read More: Looking for exclusive Ramadan shopping in UAE? Try out these 6 markets