Ramadan in Dubai: How to distribute iftar meals, set up tent, avoid up to Dh500,000 fine

Ramadan is a time when people try their best to take part in charitable initiatives across the UAE. With iftar and suhoor being major part of one's day during the holy month, many residents donate food in mosques and across their neighbourhoods.

Sadaqah, or charitable giving, can be done through various forms, including monetary donations, providing food, helping those in need, and contributing to charitable causes.

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Distributing iftar meals without permits during Ramadan is illegal in the emirate, as per the law. Violators may face a fine of up to Dh500,000. Additionally, residents are not allowed to outsource restaurants to prepare Iftar meals.

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Authorities have advised residents to give iftar meals by getting permits and doing it through licensed platforms.

For those wishing to donate iftar meals in Dubai, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) lets residents donate meal kits as well as set up distribution tents.

This permit, which is free of cost, can be applied by both individuals and charities. It takes 15 days to get the permit and complete the service.

Here is a simple guide to getting a permit for both iftar-related facilities offered by the authority.

How to distribute meals

Applicants can apply for the permit to distribute meals through the IACAD's website.

Those interested must choose the 'distribution meal' option.

Applicants will be asked to provide the following details:

• Name

• Number

• Email address

• Emirates ID copy

• Declaration date

• Permit expiry date

• Event's name

• Donor's name

• Number of daily meals

• Meal distribution location

For documents, applicants must provide their Emirates ID copy and restaurant licence if applicable.

How to set up an iftar tent

Those who want to set up an iftar tent will have to get a permit from the authority.

Applicants will have to provide the following details:

• Name

• Number

• Emirates ID

• Number of daily meals

• Land number

• Date of declaration

If applicants additionally require electricity service from DEWA, they need to provide the following:

• Number of ACs 

• AC capacity (tons) 

• Number of lights 

• Load of each light (watt) 

• Other loads (if applicable in watts)

• Number of working hours

Applicants will also have to provide the following documents:

• Emirates ID card copy

• Location map

• Restaurant licence

Legal ways of donating food

• In-kind or financial donations to licensed charities

• Donate in boxes available in malls and public places

• Prepare, purchase or distribute food to families in the neighbourhood

• Distribute Iftar meals and dates to passers-by

• Place water boxes in mosques

• Dubai

Written by

Laraib Anwer

Laraib Anwer is a Digital Journalist who loves the thrill of breaking headlines almost as much as she does unapologetically using GenZ slang. She dreams of a world free of animal cruelty and hopes to tell community stories that make a difference.