It’s a well-known fact, that making charitable gestures during the month of Ramadan is essential. One of the popular ways to do so is by distributing iftar meals to the less fortunate! However, if you happen to be a resident of Dubai, then it is important to note that this year during Ramadan, you will need to take permission before distributing Iftar meals. Here’s what you need to know about taking this permission!
Permission To Distribute Iftar Meals?
After a brief ban was introduced owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, people can once again distribute iftar meals among the less fortunate. While giving food to them is allowed but you will need to take permission from Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. As reported by The National News, this has been done for more clarity on whether the food donated is safe to consume and to ensure that the meals are being distributed to a variety of places.
Also Read: HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Announces Remote Working Fridays In UAE For The Holy Month Of Ramadan
How To Apply For A Permission From IACAD?
To get this permission, people will have to mention in which area they intend to distribute meals, to make the process more organised. They can visit the website to apply for permission or call on 80006000. For this, they will have to submit their Emirates ID, the location of the restaurant that will supply the food, and the location of meal distribution. However, if someone is caught distributing Iftar meals without permission, they could be fined between AED5,000 and AED10,000. They could also be given a jail term ranging anywhere from 30 days to a year. Having said that, it must be noted that a person is allowed to give free iftar meals to a small group of people they already know and trust without permission.
However, they cannot run an entire donation campaign in person, via messaging apps, or on social media. Moreover, if someone doesn’t have a license to distribute iftar meals, they can make other charitable gestures. These include donating to a licenced charity organisation in the UAE or giving money to some of these organisations, which goes towards providing meals for the unfortunate. So far, IACAD has issued permission for 22 iftar tents and over 300 iftar tables this year.
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