A Closer Look: How has the UAE embraced the spirit of Ramadan in 2023?


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A Closer Look is The National's show where we take an in-depth look at one of the main stories of the week.

Throughout Ramadan, a number of generous initiatives have been launched to help the less fortunate both within the UAE and across the world.

From 3 dirham meals for labourers in Sharjah, to the One Billion Meals endowment aimed at perpetually feeding the hungry all over the world, the UAE has displayed the spirit of giving best associated with Ramadan.

The National reporter Ali Al Shouk speaks to host Sarah Forster about the charitable endeavours seen throughout the holy month.

Read more

Eid Al Fitr holiday announced for UAE private sector

Abu Dhabi charity auction raises more than Dh71m for One Billion Meals Endowment

Dh3 meals - in pictures

  • Dh3 meals are prepared at the Food ATM factory in Ajman. Pawan Singh / The National
    Dh3 meals are prepared at the Food ATM factory in Ajman. Pawan Singh / The National
  • People buy their Dh3 meals at the Food ATM base. Pawan Singh / The National
    People buy their Dh3 meals at the Food ATM base. Pawan Singh / The National
  • Staff prepare food boxes. Pawan Singh / The National
    Staff prepare food boxes. Pawan Singh / The National
  • The company buys food that is nearing its expiry date to keep costs low. Pawan Singh / The National
    The company buys food that is nearing its expiry date to keep costs low. Pawan Singh / The National
  • Ayesha Khan runs Food ATM. Pawan Singh / The National
    Ayesha Khan runs Food ATM. Pawan Singh / The National
  • Meals being prepared. Pawan Singh / The National
    Meals being prepared. Pawan Singh / The National
  • Naser Al Islam, from Bangladesh, awaits his free iftar meal at Al Sajaa Labour Park in Sharjah. Photo: Ali Al Shouk / The National
    Naser Al Islam, from Bangladesh, awaits his free iftar meal at Al Sajaa Labour Park in Sharjah. Photo: Ali Al Shouk / The National
  • The nightly distribution of free meals during Ramadan has been a lifeline for many labourers on low salaries. Photo: Ali Al Shouk / The National
    The nightly distribution of free meals during Ramadan has been a lifeline for many labourers on low salaries. Photo: Ali Al Shouk / The National
  • Workers say they often arrive an hour early to book a spot and get an iftar meal. Ali Al Shouk / The National
    Workers say they often arrive an hour early to book a spot and get an iftar meal. Ali Al Shouk / The National
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Updated: March 06, 2024, 8:10 AM