Serving Dignity and Hope: How 17,500 Ramadan Meals Brought Smiles to Dubai’s Labor Camps
In the sacred final 10 nights of Ramadan, when generosity multiplies and compassion becomes action, Anosh Foundation stepped forward with a mission rooted in dignity and service. Over 17,500 iftar meals were distributed across labor camps in Al Quoz and Jebel Ali, bringing not just food, but hope and human connection to thousands of fasting workers.
A Vision Turned Into Daily Action
This initiative wasn’t just a logistical feat. It was a labor of love. Dr. Anosh Ahmed, founder of Anosh Foundation, led the campaign on the ground alongside a committed team of 15 volunteers, determined to ensure that every meal reached the hands that needed it most.
“These workers build our cities and shape our skylines,” said Dr. Ahmed. “This Ramadan, we wanted to build something for them—a moment of relief, respect, and recognition.”
Planning, Packing, and Precision: Behind the 17,500 Meals
Each day began around 11:00 AM, when volunteers gathered to begin the process. The operation involved meal preparation and packing, coordinating delivery logistics, managing crowd flow across distribution zones, and ensuring food remained hot and fresh until iftar.
Handling nearly 3,000 meals daily in the peak of Dubai’s heat was no small task. Distribution typically started around 3:00 PM and continued up until maghrib, just before the call to prayer.
Queues often stretched across blocks, with thousands lining up patiently. The challenge was keeping everything orderly, timely, and respectful—a goal the team accomplished every single day. From load-in to handover, every touchpoint was managed with precision and care.
“It was tough in the heat, and the lines were long,” shared Ahsan, one of the core volunteers. “But every smile we saw when someone received their meal made it all worth it. We went home tired, but happy.”
“You feel humbled seeing how grateful they are for just one meal,” said Sarah, another volunteer. “It reminds you not to take anything for granted.”
Human Touch in Harsh Conditions
The Dubai sun showed no mercy. Volunteers often worked in 35 to 40 degrees Celsius temperatures, carrying boxes, handling logistics, and guiding crowds. Yet the team remained undeterred, bound together by the spirit of Ramadan and a shared purpose.
Despite the physical strain, the focus never shifted. Keep the food fresh, maintain hygiene, and deliver it with dignity. Proper cooling systems, timely packaging, and organized handouts ensured meals remained wholesome and safe.
The Real Impact: A Meal, A Smile, A Moment of Relief
In these labor accommodations, many workers spend Ramadan far from home, working long hours under difficult conditions. A warm meal, handed over with kindness, offers more than just sustenance. It delivers a message: you are seen, you are appreciated.
There were countless small moments that stood out. An elder worker raising his hands in dua. A group of friends sharing their box with someone who arrived late. Hardworking men smiling as they walked away with their meals. These are the stories that fuel Anosh Foundation’s continued mission.
Be Part of the Next Chapter
This campaign showed what’s possible when compassion meets coordination. But the work doesn’t stop here.
Support Anosh Foundation’s future initiatives—whether by donating, volunteering, or sharing our story. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps us go further and reach more lives.
Visit anoshfoundation.com to get involved.
“When you feed someone at iftar, you’re not just filling their stomach—you’re uplifting their soul. This Ramadan, through 17,500 meals, we did both.”
