Watch: Dubai brothers eye 10 million free meal milestone this year

Dubai: Two Dubai-based Malawian expat brothers are aiming to provide one million free iftar meals this Ramadan.

Since launching the ‘Happy Happy UAE’ initiative in 2015, Mohammed and Imran Karim have already served eight million free meals to those in need, with plans to distribute two million more by the end of the year, reaching the 10 million milestone in 10 years.

Speaking to Gulf News ahead of the International Day of Happiness today (March 20), Mohammed, a businessman said, “We distribute meals throughout the year, including during Ramadan when the volume is higher.” He noted that about 33,000 meals are given daily to blue-collar workers, drivers, women, and others during the fasting month. Gulf News visited two venues at Dubai Investments Park and Barsha Heights, where the iftar kits were being distributed.

“Look at the smiles on their faces. They all leave here happy. This is our goal,” Imran said.

Beyond Ramadan

In addition to distributing about one million iftar meals, the brothers plan to provide one million more meals to 3,000 people a day throughout the rest of the year.

“We have different menus. We also give out ration boxes with rice, flour, sugar, oil, and other essentials to families in need for the whole month. In summer, we serve cold drinks and in winter, we provide tea, along with biscuits and cakes. We go to building sites and Kite Beach. We offer food at our home on Thursdays. There are no boundaries. Everyone is welcome,” Imran said.

Mohammed highlighted that they also help free inmates by paying off their fines.

“We pay for those who can’t afford it, arrange an exit pass, return air tickets, and provide them with money to go home,” Mohammed said.

Their inspiration for humanitarian acts comes from their late father, Abid Ibrahim Kareem.

“When we were building our home, my father would offer cold drinks to workers because of the hot conditions. Soon, more workers began coming. This was in 2006. After our home was completed, we started seeking out these workers,” said Mohammed.

Imran’s four daughters – Ruksaar, Rimsaa, Rayna, and Rukaiya – now distribute kits among women in need.

Arafat, an 18-year-old family friend, is also a regular volunteer.

“I like the fact that we make people happy,” he said.

The brothers are joined by several volunteers of diverse nationalities and professions. Some volunteers are non-Muslim as well.

“We are inspired by their actions and come to volunteer,” said British expat Liam Webb and Filipino Jed Manansala.

Unisoap UAE, an initiative supported by Goumbook to recycle hotel soaps, also participated by giving free soaps to blue-collar workers.

The brothers also collaborate with Model Service Society, a non-profit, and seeking more volunteers and forming partnerships with local brands such as Noon, Unikai.