Charity, or Zakat, and giving to those in need is an important pillar of Islam that is especially meaningful during the holy month of Ramadan. Here is a list of licensed charities in the UAE that you can donate to this Ramadan.

Every year during Ramadan, Emirates Red Crescent gives away free iftar meals — ‘Zakat Al Fitr’ — and clothing to families in the UAE and abroad. The best way to donate is through their website. Donations are not restricted to iftar meals; you can also donate to mosque-building projects abroad, as well as contribute to Syrian and Turkish earthquake relief.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the “1 Billion Meals Endowment” campaign this Ramadan to help people experiencing food insecurity in disadvantaged countries. In 2020, the initiative secured 15.3 million meals, and grew to 220 million in the following year, reaching one billion meals in 2023 according to Khaleej Times. If you would like to help provide sustainable meals to our global community, you can donate online, through SMS, or via call.

Also known as Suqia, the UAE Water Aid foundation aims to provide clean drinking water to five million people around the world. Their work includes drilling wells, providing water pumps, and purifying water equipment. Donate to the Dubai-based foundation through their website, SMS, or bank transfer, and help reduce water insecurity in the world.

Founded by the government of Abu Dhabi, Emirates Foundation is an independent organization established to empower and ensure the welfare of the youth in the UAE. Their mission as per their website is to encourage social responsibility and sustainable community development among the youth through volunteer programs.