The gift of Ramadan: Holy Month spurs culture of generous giving
Ramadan is a time for reflection, forgiving, generosity and giving. The Emirates shows a special flair for community programmes and volunteering during the Holy Month. No religion or law gives volunteerism as much importance as Islam does. Islam encourages its followers to voluntarily share their time, wealth, knowledge and acts of kindness with others. It is in this spirit that Arada, the property development company based in Sharjah, has introduced Alsimrah, the largest Ramadan tent in Sharjah, located in the heart of Aljada, the emirate's premier lifestyle destination.
Alsimrah offers a blend of tradition and luxury inspired by the rich Emirati tradition of 'Simrah', a time-honoured gathering that enables warmth and provides connections, along with exceptional culinary and cultural experiences that features premium Iftars and Suhoors embodying the essence of the Holy Month. Along with favourably priced treats, cultural entertainment includes live Oud and Qanun performances; Arabic calligraphy and henna artistry; and traditional storytelling sessions. In the heart of Dubai, the IMAN Cultural Center stands tall as a symbol of compassion and community service, since its inception in 1976. Over the years, the social organisation has become synonymous with aiding the less fortunate, fostering cultural unity, and extending a helping hand to those in need.
Under the leadership of PSM Habeebullah Khan, IMAN Cultural Center annually organises a grand Iftar during the Holy Month of Ramadan. With generous contributions from Dubai's renowned businessman Ali Rashid Lootah, the organisation provides food and beverages for over 6,000 people every day, creating a sense of community and unity. The tradition has been maintained for an impressive 47 years. IMAN Cultural Center also annually hosts an Iftar in collaboration with the Consulate General of India - Dubai, which fosters goodwill and enables cultural exchange with the participation of consulates from 20 different countries.
The cultural centre has been a steadfast support system for the Indian community in the UAE, especially during challenging times. During the COVID-19 pandemic, IMAN distributed 5 tons of food to the needy and arranged two special flights to India, providing 100 free tickets for those in desperate need of assistance. IMAN's office bearers actively visit hospitals to guide and support individuals in need, extending a compassionate hand during times of illness.
In collaboration with Dubai Health Authority, IMAN Cultural Center regularly organises blood donation camps and medical camps; arranges sports events specifically tailored for labourers, providing a platform for physical activity and camaraderie; and the organisation has been instrumental in supporting and guiding families dealing with the unfortunate demise of their loved ones in the UAE. IMAN steps forward to assist with local burials or, when required, facilitates the transportation of the deceased to their home country.
Sharjah Cooperative has allocated Dhs35 million to support over 10,000 essential consumer products in its 'Khairat Ramadan' campaign. The initiative aims to ease the financial burden on consumers by offering special discounts of up to 75 per cent on essential goods. Majid Salem Al Junaid, CEO of Sharjah Cooperative, said that 'under the directives of the Cooperative's Board of Directors, the 'Khairat Ramadan' campaign was launched to ease the financial burden on both citizens and residents. As part of this campaign, Sharjah Cooperative is ensuring the availability of consumer goods, food, and essential supplies at competitive prices across its 69 retail outlets throughout Sharjah, as well as through its online store.'
The campaign includes a series of promotional offers that began in the first week of February, followed by wholesale discounts covering a wide range of products. The campaign also features special Ramadan deals which started one week before the Holy Month, with price reductions exceeding 75 per cent on essential consumer goods. Additional offers continue throughout the entire month of Ramadan.
Sharjah Cooperative is also participating in the 'Sharjah Ramadan Offers' programme organised by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry. As part of the initiative, shoppers have the opportunity to win five Suzuki SWIFT GLX cars, 15 Umrah trips, 30 gift cards, and a selection of high-value electronics and home appliances. Customers spending Dhs200 or more at any of the Cooperative's branches across Sharjah, the Eastern Region and the Central Region, as well as through its online store and mobile application, are eligible to enter the draw.
To further support shoppers during Ramadan, the Cooperative has introduced three types of Ramadan baskets this year, priced between Dhs99 and Dhs399. The baskets consist of a diverse selection of essential goods with discounts exceeding 50 per cent, featuring staple items such as rice, sugar, flour, oils, juices, and more. Customers can purchase the baskets from any branch or through the online shopping platform. The CEO emphasised that Sharjah Cooperative has undertaken early preparations to ensure the availability of a sufficient stock of essential food items, which will be offered through Ramadan promotions. The approach aims to guarantee the availability of necessities throughout the Holy Month, while providing goods in bulk at the most affordable prices for a large number of consumers.
On the Cooperative's community initiatives during Ramadan, Al Junaid revealed that it has begun coordinating with charitable institutions across the UAE to distribute Ramadan food packages to support families in need. The food baskets are designed to provide beneficiaries with essential food supplies for the entirety of the Holy Month.
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