Eid Al Fitr in UAE: Dubai drivers receive gifts from this market

Dubai: Thousands of drivers in Dubai are enjoying extra festive cheer this Eid Al Fitr after receiving essential items of their choice for free at a special marketplace hosted by Dubai Holding.

The vibrant event, part of the second edition of the ‘Gift It Forward’ initiative, was held recently during Ramadan to spread joy and generosity.

By sourcing and repurposing unsold inventory from various portfolio companies and partners, the philanthropic initiative reduces waste and creates value by turning surplus items into useful products for people in need. The inventory includes personal care items, clothing, accessories, homeware, and toys.

At the event, held in collaboration with Dubai Taxi Corporation at Muhaisnah 4, several smiling faces shared their experiences with Gulf News after selecting items.

Oliullah, a Bangladeshi expat working as a taxi driver, noted that the initiative is a blessing for people like him who can’t afford certain products due to their high cost.

“This event is amazing because it offers products that are often too expensive in the market, and here we can choose them for free. All of my colleagues have really enjoyed the experience – it’s been a great day.”

‘Everything I need’

The event made a tangible difference in the lives of many individuals. One of them was Naglaa Fathy, an Egyptian woman expat living here for the past 25 years and working in school bus operations.

“When my supervisor told me about the event, I was so surprised – I couldn’t believe it. The marketplace has everything I need, and I’m excited to pick items ranging from dresses to shoes for me and my family,” she said.

Meanwhile, Landa Clemente, a female school bus supervisor from the Philippines, was overwhelmed.

“I’ve been living in Dubai for about 11 years, but this is the first time I’ve attended an event like this. It’s such a unique experience. The marketplace has so many items, from clothes and toys for children to essentials for adults. My favourite item to shop for is shoes, and I’m really happy to have picked up a pair,” she said.

Someone like Hassan Syed, an Indian bus driver living in Dubai for about 25 years, couldn’t contain his excitement.

“I’m so happy to have found everything I need at this event – it’s truly a wonderful initiative.”  

‘Creating a better tomorrow’

In line with the UAE’s Year of Community, the initiative promotes sustainability and community engagement during Ramadan, as tonnes of materials have been successfully diverted from landfills. Huda Buhumaid, Chief Impact Officer at Dubai Holding, underlined that the initiative is a “powerful model” of how collective action can create positive change within society.

“As we mark its second year during the UAE’s Year of Community, this flagship philanthropy initiative underscores the power of partnerships in creating a better tomorrow.”

She pointed out all beneficiaries have the choice to select items according to their needs in an empowering and dignified manner thereby making it a unique initiative.

“Collaborating with Dubai Taxi to host this marketplace highlights the importance of partnerships in driving impactful change, addressing immediate needs and promoting a culture of generosity and sustainability during Ramadan,” Huda added.