Dubai: In Dubai, the widespread distribution of fasting meals, beyond the barriers to race, religion and nationality, has led to an amazing phenomenon: several non-Muslims embrace Islam every year.
Sheikh Muhammad Aziz, an African diaspora from Malawi, revealed this in an interview Geographic News. Sheikh Aziz and his team distribute 33,000 IFTAR packaging every day at 13 different locations in Dubai.
“During the fasting period, no one was asked about their religion or nationality. Everyone was considered a ‘guest of Allah’ and served meals without discrimination.”
He mentioned the generosity and selfless spirit in Islam, which, according to him, inspired more than 10 non-Muslims to transform each Ramadan into Islam.
Sheikh Aziz and his brother Imran Aziz began serving the poor and laborers in 2015. Over the years, their efforts have continued to develop into a large-scale Ramadan campaign called “Happy Happy Ramadan”.
The initiative operates in various regions of Dubai, including Basha, Dubai Industrial Zone and Sonapur. Hundreds of volunteers, including many non-Muslims from Europe and the UK, are actively involved in distribution.
Jemma, a volunteer from the UK, shared her excitement about being part of the program: “Distribution of Eid al-Fitr is a meaningful experience. My children joined in, which instilled a sense of compassion and kindness.”
Many Pakistani volunteers also participated in the campaign. “Hundreds of Pakistanis donate and distribute Iftar packaging every day to ensure they are exposed to workers and fasting individuals,” said Pakistani volunteer Rizwan Fancy.
Unique to Barsha area is the inclusion of women in the distribution process. Hafeda, a volunteer from France, stressed: “Basha is the only place where women were also given to Ifata, regardless of their religion or background.”
The Dubai government has received a “Happy Happy Ramadan” campaign, which operates at such a large scale, has received special permission to ensure that thousands of people receive meals every day during the Holy Month.
