Ramadan is a time of generosity and community spirit in Dubai, with residents eager to participate in charitable initiatives.
One of the most common forms of giving is distributing iftar meals to those in need. However, authorities have strict regulations in place to ensure food safety and prevent unauthorised meal distribution.
Dubai law prohibits distributing iftar meals without the necessary permits. Violators may face fines of up to Dh500,000. Additionally, residents cannot outsource restaurants to prepare and distribute meals unless authorised by the relevant authorities.
The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) facilitates legal iftar meal distribution and allows residents to set up iftar tents. The permit, which is free of charge, can be obtained by both individuals and charities. Applicants should apply at least 15 days in advance to ensure timely approval.
How to distribute Iftar meals
Residents interested in distributing iftar meals must apply through the IACAD website. The process involves submitting personal and logistical details, including:
- Name
- Contact number
- Email address
- Emirates ID copy
- Declaration date
- Permit expiry date
- Event name
- Donor name
- Number of daily meals
- Meal distribution location
Applicants must also provide a copy of their Emirates ID and, if applicable, a restaurant licence.
Setting up an Iftar tent
Those wishing to set up an iftar tent must obtain a separate permit. The required details include:
- Name
- Contact number
- Emirates ID
- Number of daily meals
- Land number
- Declaration date
If electricity services are needed from the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), additional details are required:
- Number of ACs and their capacity
- Number of lights and their wattage
- Other electrical loads (if applicable)
- Number of working hours
Required documents for the tent permit include:
- Emirates ID copy
- Location map
- Restaurant licence
Legal ways to donate food
Residents can also contribute through licensed organisations and community initiatives. Legal ways to donate food include:
- Making in-kind or financial donations to registered charities
- Donating through collection boxes in malls and public spaces
- Providing food to families in the neighbourhood
- Distributing iftar meals and dates to passers-by
- Placing water boxes in mosques
Registered charities accepting donations
Several registered charities in Dubai have launched Ramadan campaigns, allowing residents to donate iftar meals, Zakat, and Eid clothing.
Dubai Charity Association
The Dubai Charity Association aims to distribute 1 million iftar meals within the UAE and 100,000 meals abroad. Contributions start at Dh10 and can go up to Dh500 or more.
Donation methods:
- Online: Visit the official website, select the Ramadan campaign, choose the number of meals, and proceed with payment.
- SMS: Select an amount (e.g., Dh50 or Dh100) and send an SMS with ‘Ramadan’ to confirm the donation.
- Bank Transfer: Donate via Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) or Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB).
Emirates Red Crescent
The Emirates Red Crescent’s ‘Ramadan Continuous Giving’ campaign provides food relief, financial aid, and iftar meals for families in need.
Donation options:
- Eid clothing: Starting at Dh50
- Zakat al-Fitr: Open contributions
- Iftar meals: Starting at Dh15
- Ramadan food baskets: Dh100 to Dh500
- Hajj and Umrah sponsorship
- Iftar meals for Gaza families: Starting at Dh20
- Sadaqah donations: Starting at Dh10
To donate, visit the official website, select the desired campaign, and complete the payment online.