As Ramadan 2026 approaches, thousands of UAE residents are preparing to give back through volunteering opportunities across all seven emirates. This year’s program has expanded significantly, with roles ranging from iftar distribution to event coordination and community support activities scheduled throughout the holy month.
Volunteering during Ramadan is not only permitted but actively encouraged by UAE authorities, provided it’s done through officially registered organizations. The UAE’s Federal Law No. 13 of 2018 regulates all volunteer activities, ensuring every initiative meets safety and organizational standards—particularly important during Ramadan’s peak charity season when participation reaches its annual high.
Who can volunteer in the UAE
UAE residents looking to volunteer must meet several basic requirements before applying. All volunteers need to be either Emirati citizens or legal residents of the UAE, and must be at least 18 years old. Younger residents aged 16 and 17 can participate with written parental or guardian consent.
Additional requirements include being in good health and of good conduct. Volunteers must also complete official registration through the national platform. For specialized roles that require professional expertise, applicants need to hold valid professional licenses relevant to their field.
How to register as a volunteer
The UAE government operates a centralized volunteering platform at volunteers.ae where all legitimate opportunities are posted. Registration requires a UAE Pass account, which ensures secure access and verification of identity.
After logging in through UAE Pass, volunteers create their profile by entering personal information including Emirates ID details, contact information, and current emirate of residence. The platform also allows users to specify their areas of interest and expertise, helping match them with suitable volunteer roles.
Finding and applying for Ramadan opportunities
Once registered, volunteers can browse available initiatives by visiting the opportunities section on the platform. The search function includes filters for emirate, organization type, activity category, and required language skills, making it easier to find roles that match individual preferences and availability.
Applications are submitted directly through the platform. After reviewing submissions, organizing entities contact selected volunteers with further details about training, schedules, and specific responsibilities.
Ramadan 2026 volunteer opportunities now open
Several Ramadan initiatives are already accepting applications for 2026. Dubai Municipality is recruiting volunteers for the Ramadan Market 2026, running from January 17 to 31. Roles focus on assisting visitors, supporting logistics operations, and helping with on-site coordination.
Daily iftar distribution programs will run from February 17 through March 19 at multiple locations. Volunteers are needed at Taha Mosque in Bur Dubai and Sheikha Ali Mosque in Dubai Silicon Oasis to help prepare and serve meals to workers, families, and fasting community members.
In Ras Al Khaimah, the Sheikh Saud Charity Foundation is accepting volunteers for Ramadan food parcel registration activities. Volunteers will assist with beneficiary registration and coordination during daytime hours throughout the holy month.
Getting started with Ramadan volunteering
First-time volunteers are encouraged to begin with shorter commitments such as weekend iftar distributions to get familiar with the process and requirements. Those with previous volunteering experience can explore coordination and supervisory roles that involve greater responsibility.
Many organizations welcome family participation, making Ramadan volunteering an excellent opportunity for parents to involve their children in charitable activities and teach them the values of giving back to the community during the holy month.
More opportunities expected soon
Additional Ramadan 2026 volunteering initiatives are expected to be announced in the coming weeks as organizations finalize their programs. Interested residents should regularly check volunteers.ae and follow updates from the UAE’s official volunteer channels for the latest postings.
Early registration is recommended as popular volunteer slots, particularly for iftar distribution and family-friendly activities, tend to fill quickly as Ramadan approaches. Organizations typically conduct brief orientation sessions for accepted volunteers before assignments begin.
