Ramadan in UAE: Non-Muslim volunteers join fasting Muslims to distribute iftar in labour camps

Khaleej Times

17-03-2025

Since the beginning of Ramadan, a number of volunteers head straight to labour housing in Al Quoz after their full-time job hours showcasing the spirit of compassion and community.
Non-Muslim volunteers, too, join their fasting Muslim peers in distributing 1,000 iftar meals among labourers as part of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA) initiative, the "Goodness Bus".
The initiative aims to provide 150,000 iftar meals by the end of Ramadan.
Among these volunteers is Omnia Arafa, an Egyptian Government Relations Officer, who finished her work and was immediately in her volunteer vest. She explained how fasting can often be perceived as a burden, especially with the demands of a busy work life. "People often assume I'll be tired from fasting all day and then coming here to volunteer, but it's not just them who benefit. We gain satisfaction from doing selfless work, especially during Ramadan," she said.
Omnia emphasised the joy she feels upon seeing the smiles on the faces of those receiving the meals, reinforcing her belief that community service enriches her own spiritual experience during the holy month.
All these volunteers are part of the Nabdh Al Emarat team, which has joined the "Goodness Bus" initiative. Every day, 1,000 meals each are distributed in key worker areas such as Jebel Ali, Al Quoz, Dubai Investment Park, and Muhaisnah. This initiative recognises the vital role workers play in the development of the city, promoting a culture of social responsibility by providing nutritious iftar meals in an environment of compassion and solidarity.
Standing right beside her, handling her bunch of iftar meal boxes, is Phutuli Sarkhel, a teacher from Sharjah, who is from India. Balancing her full-time job with her commitment to volunteering, Phutuli shared, "I've been involved in various projects over the past year, including water distribution and support for people of determination. During Ramadan, I volunteer every day after school." Her family has also joined her efforts, demonstrating that the spirit of giving can be a family affair. 'My husband and my daughter, who is 12 years old, have started volunteering with me as well.'
Phutuli's motivations stem from her upbringing in India, where she was taught the importance of community and helping those in need. "Volunteering has always been a part of my life. It feels rewarding to make a difference, no matter how small," she explained.
Additionally, Demiana Eshik, an Egyptian Christian, and her fiancé Sameh Abdelmalak have joined the cause and have been actively participating in various volunteer activities. Having just returned from another event earlier that day, the couple has been using their flexible work hours to do good in the community.
Sameh recounted his day spent at a centre for people of determination, stating, "We were there since morning. My work hours are flexible, so I can easily compensate for time spent volunteering." He expressed how fulfilling it is to contribute his time and skills, noting that the interactions with those he helps bring him a sense of purpose and joy.
His fiancé, Demiana, echoed their unwavering commitment to service, saying, "It's in our blood to volunteer; we did it all the time back in Egypt, so why stop here?" This couple is excitedly starting their life together by doing good in the community, embodying the idea that their shared values of compassion and service can lay a strong foundation for their future.
Geeta Chandola, a dedicated volunteer for two years, passionately shared her motivations. "It's about contributing to society and spreading happiness," she said. Having lived in Dubai for 25 years, Geeta emphasizes the importance of humanitarian efforts, stating, "Religion doesn't matter; humanitarian work is the most noble thing."
The volunteers stood in line handling the 1,000 iftar meals as part of the Nabdh Al Emarat team. Joining them was Major General Obaid Muhair bin Surour, Deputy Director General of the Dubai Residency and Foreigners Affairs Department. "This campaign is different from previous ones, as we are reaching out directly to workers on-site. We are committed to this mission until the end of Ramadan," he told Khaleej Times.
'Ramadan embodies the true meaning of giving and compassion. Through the 'Goodness Bus' initiative, we aim to reinforce social responsibility values and provide necessary support to workers who contribute to Dubai's prosperity. This initiative is part of our continuous efforts to foster a humane environment that reflects the spirit of brotherhood and solidarity,' he added.