Can UAE citizens share food during Iftar in 2023? Ministry issues clarifications, slaps Dh500,000 fines on infringers

In the UAE, locals and foreigners compete to perform charitable gestures over the holy month of Ramadan. The UAE has laws and regulations in place that regulate donations because this is the month of giving. The goal is to guarantee that contributors are shielded from all forms of exploitation and that their donations reach the intended recipients. The regulations governing the procedure for soliciting, accepting, and making donations have been clarified by the Ministry of Community Development. Donations regulatory law violators risk jail time and/or a Dh500,000 fine. 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. What is not allowed? Residents are not allowed to outsource restaurants to prepare Iftar meals. This is a “clear violation of the law as it is not possible to ensure” that the meals “reach the beneficiaries”. “Such restaurants are not equipped to search for those in need or distribute … food and drinks. This makes donors vulnerable to fraud and exploitation. Therefore, the law prohibits such acts that fall within the framework of fundraising,” said Tahlak. The official called on residents to be careful and not follow unlicensed fundraising campaigns, whether through social media or SMS text messages, in markets, shops and workplaces. “The Federal Law No. (3) of 2021 concerning the donations regulatory law states that a normal person is prohibited from establishing or performing any act with the aim of collecting or accepting donations from the public by any means of collection except after obtaining a permit which specifies the mechanism and channels of collection.” She said one of the most important objectives of the donations regulatory law is "to protect the funds of donors, and to deliver donations to those who are eligible". “It is worth noting that the charitable associations and institutions licensed and approved by official authorities are Authorised by law to collect and submit donations. The list of approved and licensed charitable associations and institutions can be viewed through the website of the Ministry of Community Development,” added Tahlak.