Ramadan in UAE: GDRFA launches ‘Goodness Bus’ to distribute Ifar meals

Dubai: The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA Dubai) has unveiled the “Goodness Bus” initiative to distribute free Iftar meals to Dubai’s labour workforce.

This initiative has been launched in collaboration with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment and the Dubai Charity Association.

Aligned with the “Year of the Community,” which highlights social responsibility, the project seeks to honour the essential role of labourers in the city’s development while fostering a sense of unity and solidarity. Over the course of Ramadan, the initiative aims to distribute 150,000 Iftar meals, with 5,000 meals served daily across key labour hubs in Dubai, including Jebel Ali, Al Quoz, Dubai Investment Park, and Muhaisnah.

Social responsibility

Major General Obaid Muhair bin Suroor, Deputy Director General of GDRFA Dubai and Chairman of the PCLA, said the initiative reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to supporting the city’s labour community. “Ramadan is a time to embody giving and compassion. Through the ‘Goodness Bus,’ we aim to reinforce the values of social responsibility and provide vital support to workers who contribute to Dubai’s growth,” he said. “This initiative is part of our continuous efforts to create an environment of brotherhood and solidarity.”
Social bonds

Saleh Zaher Al Mazrouei, Director General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, added, “We believe that joint efforts are key to strengthening social bonds and fostering unity, especially during Ramadan, a time for giving. We are proud to support this initiative, which highlights the labour force’s vital contributions to Dubai’s progress.”

Ahmed Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Dubai Charity Association, said: “We are delighted to partner with GDRFA Dubai on this initiative, which spreads the values of compassion and fraternity central to Ramadan. As part of our ‘Goodness Lasts’ campaign, this initiative shows our appreciation for the labour force’s indispensable role in Dubai’s development.”