When it comes to sharing Iftar meals during the holy month of Ramadan, Dubai residents will need permits. During a news conference on Friday, the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charity Activities in Dubai made this announcement and urged individuals to abide by the rules for food distribution.
According to Mohammed Mosabh Dahi, deputy director for charitable operations at the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities, any person or organisation that distributes food without a permit is engaging in an unauthoritative charitable deed.
“It (the violation) will be included under the prohibition of any actions related to collecting donations or advertising through audio, visual, or print media without prior permission from the department and will expose the owner for legal accountability,” said Dahi.
People can visit the department’s website to apply for permission or call 800.600.
“The person must submit an Emirates ID, the location of the distribution, and the name and location of the restaurant that will supply the food,” Mr. Dahi said.
Without authorization, those who distribute iftar meals risk receiving a fine of between Dh5000 and Dh10,000 ($1,360 and $2,722) or a jail sentence of between 30 days and a year.
There are many different kinds of charity, but some of them, like helping individuals break their fast by providing them with food and water, are only available during Ramadan, Mr. Dahi continued.
