Abu Dhabi urges public not to outsource Iftar meals distribution to restaurants

The Department of Community Development (DCD) in Abu Dhabi has called on the public to refrain from outsourcing preparation and distribution of iftar meals to restaurants and caterers.

The DCD stressed that any charitable donations and financial contributions must be done through licensed fundraising entities in Abu Dhabi.

Imprisonment and a fine of no less than Dhs150,000 and no more than Dhs300,000 will be imposed on any entity collects or receives donations without obtaining a permit.

Outsourcing and paying restaurants to prepare iftar meals is a violation of Federal Law No. (3) of 2021, which regulates the fundraising activities and donations in the UAE.

Individuals who would like to make charitable contributions can do so through in-kind or cash donations made to licensed fundraising entities or authorised donation boxes.

The DCD emphasised the importance of establishing a culture of giving in accordance with legal frameworks and legislations. This helps regulate donations by protecting donor funds and ensuring that they reach the right beneficiaries.

However, the department considers the practice of preparing, buying, and distributing Iftar meals to families in the neighbourhood, or distributing meals and dates to passers-by, or placing water in mosques, as not violating the law as long as they do not collect any kind of money or donations for illegal purposes.

Additionally, the Department of Community Development reiterated that establishing, organising, or performing any act aimed at collecting donations in Abu Dhabi is not allowed without a permit from DCD, except for Licensed Fundraising Entities which are charities, federal, local and civil institutions that are permitted by laws and decrees to collect, receive and make donations. Moreover, they have extensive experience and the capabilities to carry out such tasks.

WAM