With Ramadan 2026 approaching, residents across the UAE can take part in a wide range of volunteering initiatives tied to food distribution, community support, and public events. Volunteering during the holy month is permitted and encouraged—but only when done through approved organisations and in line with federal regulations.
Volunteer work in the UAE is governed by Federal Law No. (13) of 2018, which sets clear rules to ensure that volunteer activities are organised, lawful, and safe for both volunteers and beneficiaries. This framework becomes especially relevant during Ramadan, one of the busiest periods for charity-driven initiatives across all emirates.
Check if you are eligible to volunteer
Before signing up, residents must meet basic eligibility requirements. Volunteers must be either Emirati citizens or UAE residents and be at least 18 years old. Those under 18 may participate only with parental consent. Applicants are also required to be of good conduct, medically fit for the assigned role, and officially registered as volunteers. For roles linked to a person’s profession, a valid professional licence is required.
Register through the official volunteering platform
All legal volunteering opportunities are listed through the UAE’s national volunteering portal, volunteers.ae. The platform connects individuals, groups, and organisations with registered charities, government entities, and approved private institutions.
To register, users must sign up using UAE Pass and complete their volunteer profile by providing personal details such as nationality, Emirates ID number, contact information, and emirate of residence. Areas of interest or expertise can also be added to help match volunteers with suitable roles.
Apply for Ramadan volunteering opportunities
Once registered, volunteers can browse active initiatives by selecting “Explore opportunities” on the platform. Filters allow users to narrow listings by emirate, organisation, category, and language. After selecting an opportunity, applicants can submit their interest directly through the site. Organising entities then review applications and contact shortlisted volunteers.
Current Ramadan 2026 opportunities in the UAE
Several initiatives are already open for Ramadan 2026. In Dubai, volunteers are being recruited to support Ramadan Market 2026 in coordination with Dubai Municipality, with roles focused on visitor assistance, logistics, and on-site reporting between January 17 and January 31.
Daily iftar distribution programmes are scheduled from February 17 to March 19 at Taha Mosque in Bur Dubai and at Sheikha Ali Mosque in Dubai Silicon Oasis, where volunteers will help serve meals to workers, families, and fasting residents.
In Ras Al Khaimah, volunteers are also being accepted for Ramadan food parcel registration activities in partnership with Sheikh Saud Charity Foundation, assisting with on-site registration and coordination during daytime hours.
Additional Ramadan 2026 volunteering opportunities are expected to be announced on volunteers.ae and the UAE’s Year of Family website as the holy month draws closer.
