Dubai Holding's 'Gift It Forward' Initiative Aims To Enrich Lives During Ramadan

Dubai Holding, a global investment powerhouse with operations in 31 countries, has unveiled its Ramadan initiative, Gift It Forward, in collaboration with the Community Development Authority (CDA). This initiative is part of the broader Ramadan In Dubai campaign and aims to breathe new life into thousands of items by transforming them into unique gifts. These gifts will then be distributed to over 8,000 blue-collar workers and 500 low-income families supported by the CDA.

The initiative sees participation from various sectors within Dubai Holding, including Dubai Holding Entertainment, Real Estate, Asset Management, Hospitality Assets, Jumeirah Group, Dubai Community Management, and TECOM Group. Additionally, Azadea and Apparel Group are supporting partners, with Goumbook serving as the execution partner. Volunteers will gather to assemble and distribute new inventory items sourced from Dubai Holding's portfolio companies and partner retail brands. These items range from clothing and stationery to books and accessories.

Aligned with the Dubai Holding Sustainability Strategy, Gift It Forward emphasizes the reduction of waste and promotes mindful consumption through the repurposing of items into meaningful gifts. This initiative not only supports environmental stewardship but also underscores social responsibility by enhancing the lives of those who ensure the smooth operation of essential community services.

Huda Buhumaid, Chief Impact Officer at Dubai Holding, highlighted the dual focus of Gift It Forward on environmental stewardship and social responsibility. "We aim to foster a culture of giving, community, and responsibility that will contribute to a socially and environmentally conscious generation," Buhumaid stated. She also emphasized the importance of partnership and collective action in achieving a positive impact.

Huraiz Al-Murr bin Huraiz, CEO of Social Care & Development Sector in the Community Development Authority, echoed this sentiment. He noted that Gift It Forward aligns with the Holy Month's values of kindness and compassion. The initiative will distribute gifts to more than 700 children, aiming to spread joy and foster a culture of giving and solidarity.

Gift It Forward will kick off on the first day of Ramadan and continue throughout the Holy Month. It offers family-friendly volunteering opportunities. Moreover, Dubai Holding's destinations such as Global Village, Al Khawaneej Walk, Riverland™ Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), and Boxpark Dubai will celebrate Ramadan with a variety of events and activities. These include competitions, special decorations, late-night openings, Ramadan art exhibitions, and weekend fireworks displays.

This initiative not only aims to enrich the lives of blue-collar workers and low-income families but also seeks to instill sustainable behaviors across the UAE. Through collective efforts and community engagement, Gift It Forward represents a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and environmentally conscious society.

With inputs from WAM