The most important aspect of charity does not lie in its mere good intentions. Rather, it is vested in the donated sum’s ability to make the journey from donor to recipient with complete integrity and efficiency. The UAE is making this journey of integrity a guaranteed passage of rite by removing potential pitfalls and obstacles in asking all donors to first seek permission from the authorities before implementing their charitable act. The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), as per Decree 9 of 2015, issued by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-president and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, prohibits collecting donations or advertising fund-raising campaigns through all forms of media, without obtaining prior written approval from it. This is a sound policy that guarantees a correct outcome. Truth is, unregulated and random processes in the world of charity lead to myriad risks, including the money not reaching the intended recipients on time, reaching short of what is required, sometimes not at all, or being diverted for dubious purposes that could be detrimental to society.
These risks strike at the root of the purpose of charity, weakening them and worse, making charity untrustworthy. The longevity of this noble deed is directly dependant on its credibility. For every individual or entity who steps forward to donate and thus help in alleviating their suffering, the credibility factor is what guides their belief system.
UAE’s policy of making all charity outreach first obtain a permit from the relevant authority ensures that the act of giving remains untainted and effective. In a world that is witnessing increasing numbers of people needing aid and support, this reassurance holds incalculable merit.
