UAE's Culture of Giving Shines Ahead of Eid Al Adha

May 15, 2026

80 min

May 15, 2026 04:31

What the UAE’s culture of giving looks like ahead of Eid Al Adha

## Gift It Forward Initiative

In the UAE, Eid Al Adha is celebrated not only with family gatherings but also through a strong culture of giving. The "Gift It Forward" initiative, organized by Dubai Holding in collaboration with the Community Development Authority, exemplifies this spirit. It involves repurposing surplus items from businesses into gifts for those in need, distributed through pop-up marketplaces. This approach emphasizes dignity and community well-being, allowing beneficiaries to select items in a respectful setting.

## Sustainability and Social Impact

The initiative aligns with the UAE's sustainability goals by redirecting usable goods from landfills, thus combining environmental responsibility with social impact. Volunteers find the experience deeply rewarding, as it reflects the essence of Eid Al Adha—generosity and community connection.

## Personal Reflections from Volunteers

Volunteers like Bassam Al Soleh and Arish Shrestha share how participating in "Gift It Forward" has been transformative. Al Soleh highlights the emotional impact of simple acts of giving, while Shrestha notes the cultural understanding gained through volunteering. Both emphasize the importance of kindness and community support.

## Family and Community Bonding

For some, volunteering is a family affair. Yogesh Arora, for instance, involves his family in the initiative, finding it a fulfilling way to give back and strengthen community ties. The experience teaches valuable lessons about the impact of small acts of kindness.

## Expanding Reach

"Gift It Forward" continues to grow, with over 55 partners and more than 500,000 items collected to aid communities. This expanding culture of circular giving aligns with the values of Eid Al Adha, focusing on generosity, empathy, and unity across the Emirates.

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