Zakat should generally be about 2.5 per cent of the yearly savings of those working, but Muslims of a truly generous spirit are known to set aside a great deal more to aid the needy. Aside from helping the poor, Zakat helps to purify the soul by getting rid of any greed or miserliness that you might be holding on to, and promotes empathy with those less fortunate.
Here in the United Arab Emirates there are many charitable organisations, both private and government-backed, that you can financially contribute to throughout the year. And even if you don’t have much money to give, offering your time and assistance is also appreciated.
All As One
This international charity and non-governmental organisation is based in Sierra Leone, but has a Dubai office that’s registered as a non-profit organisation. It aims to build a better future for children who are the innocent victims of a long civil war, offering them a loving home, education, medical care and a chance for a better future.
www.aaodubai.org (04 311 6707 / 050 450 8360).
Dubai Cares
Launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai in 2007, Dubai Cares aims to improve access to education for children in developing nations. Various fundraising initiatives, such as the Thirst for Education campaign aim to provide clean drinking water to children round the world. The campaign has received donations from more than 120,000 UAE residents.
www.dubaicares.ae (04 330 4433).
Dubai St. George’s Society
The Society organises many events to mark English occasions and acts as a focal point for all who enjoy British culture and traditions. As a member there are plenty of events to look forward to, including quiz nights, treasure hunts, family brunches, race nights and dances, all of which raise money for nominated charities that include the Dubai Autism Centre and the Riding for the Disabled Association of Dubai.
www.dsgs.org.
Friends of Cancer Patients
Based in Sharjah, Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) organises awareness campaigns, free screening opportunities and helps support cancer patients and their families. FOCP has a long standing relationship with Tawam Hospital in affiliation with John Hopkins, and it’s linked with many international cancer organisations too.
www.focp.ae (06 506 5542).
Gulf for Good
Gulf For Good organises adventure challenges in which Gulf residents and nationals can participate to raise funds for needy children. Regular challenges include climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, trekking to Everest Base Camp, following the Inca Trail in Peru, cycling in Cambodia, kayaking and camel trekking.
www.gulf4good.org (04 368 0222).
Médecins Sans Frontières
A private, non-profit organisation that provides assistance to any country that’s affected by catastrophic events such as armed conflict, epidemics, malnutrition or natural disasters, especially when they overwhelm local health systems. MSF is involved in several projects in the Middle East as well, including Iraq, Iran, Syria, Lebanon and Palestine.
www.msf-me.org (04 345 8177).
Mission to Seafarers
The organisation raises money to fund the support boat The Flying Angel that offers counselling and facilities to isolated seafarers off the coast of Fujairah. The seafarers are responsible for bringing most of the goods we use into the country. The Dubai chapter – Dubai Seafarers – is always on the lookout for volunteers.
www.dubaiseafarers.com (04 357 6060).
Red Crescent Society
The UAE chapter, based in Abu Dhabi, is known to provide sponsorship for orphans, as well as medical and educational assistance and aid. Aside from helping with housing, health and education in countries such as Palestine, Yemen, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan, they also take up local projects such as construction and maintenance of houses, mosques and schools within the UAE.
www.ifrc.org (02 884 8144 / Toll Free 733 800).
The Dhaka Project
The Dhaka Project raises money to help slum children and their families in Bangladesh, with funds used to teach life skills to adults, whilst giving their children an education. Just $31 can feed a child for a month, while $150 gives one child a full year of education. It was founded by Maria Conceicao who has now gone on to establish the Maria Christina Foundation which is dedicated to projects that will change the destinies of children.
www.thedhakaproject.org / www.mariachristinafoundation.org.
Tukutana Foundation
A non-profit organisation that helps orphaned babies and children in Uganda – a country which reportedly has 2.2 million orphans. The foundation provides clothing, education, food and shelter to orphans. Donations of clothing, footwear and baby formula are always welcome.
www.tukutana.org (050 187 6434 / 050 878 6652).
Ewa’a Shelter for Women and Children
The shelter aims to protect victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation in the country, providing them with the right assistance and care. The centre welcomes financial donations as well as skilled volunteers that can help care for victims. There’s a hotline to report suspicions of trafficking (800 7283).
www.shwc.ae (02 558 4812).
Volunteer in Dubai
This not-for-proft outfit, founded in 2008, helps match volunteers to charities. Registered volunteers will be updated on various charities that are on the lookout for help, whether that includes donating a few hours of time or a specific skill they have to offer.
www.volunteerindubai.com (04 452 1106).
Dubai Charity Organisation
The organisation spearheads many different projects both locally and internationally, all of which are listed on their website. They also sponsor orphans in the UAE, offering financial assistance and schooling to them and best known for their annual Ramadan campaigns.
www.dubaicharity.org (04 268 2000).
Dubai Foundation for Women and Children
Established in 2007, it was the first licensed non-profit shelter set up in the UAE for women and children who were victims of domestic violence, child abuse, and human trafficking.
The foundation provides a 24/7 helpline (800 111), emergency shelter, and support services to women and children victims.
www.dfwac.ae (04 606 0300).
View our comprehensive Ramadan guide here
Ramadan reflections
“I started fasting when I was six or seven years old and when I completed the whole month with obedience, I was rewarded with gifts from family and relatives. As time has passed I have realised the real importance of Ramadan. This month is the month where you give, not take, where you ask and not order, where you repent and not repeat. This month brings me closer and closer to the almighty Allah.
This year is going to be my first Ramadan as a married woman. It will be different since I won’t be with my family, but I will make it special with my new family and thank Allah for everything he has given me. Not only does this month teach us how to behave, but it teaches us to be human too, and there’s nothing nobler than giving to charity and doing good deeds.” – Shahin Abdul Gaffar
