Dubai: In its second consecutive year, the ‘Gift It Forward’ initiative—launched by Dubai Holding in collaboration with the Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai and DHL Global Forwarding—successfully reached over 16,000 individuals during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The initiative saw a significant increase in the volume of new items collected and transformed into thoughtful gifts, reinforcing the value of strategic partnerships between the public and private sectors in delivering impactful and sustainable community-focused programs.

This year’s edition distributed more than 315,000 new items—estimated at AED 14 million in value—including clothing, personal care products, accessories, household goods, and toys. These items were shared through 22 community events held across 11 locations in Dubai, designed to replicate a market experience where beneficiaries could select items that best suit their needs. This dignified approach empowered individuals and families to receive support in a manner that respects personal choice and preserves their dignity.

Gift It Forward combines the spirit of giving with Dubai Holding's Sustainability Strategy. By transforming new inventory items from across the Group's portfolio companies and contributing partners into valuable products for those in need, the initiative promotes responsible practices, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12. This year, Dubai Holding and its partners diverted more than 85 tonnes of materials from potentially ending up in landfills.

Gift It Forward is now a flagship initiative of Dubai Holding’s philanthropy strategy and aligns its contributions with the UAE’s Year of Community in 2025.

Huda Buhumaid, Chief Impact Officer, Dubai Holding, said, "By bringing businesses and people together to create positive change, Gift It Forward reflects Dubai Holding's commitment to shaping a better tomorrow. This year's initiative exceeded our expectations, mobilising a broader network of public and private partners and more than doubling the inventory donated compared to last year. We showcased the power of collaboration in creating social impact while reducing waste by redirecting valuable inventory to those in need."

The initiative fostered a culture of volunteering and giving back within the workplace. More than 1500 employees across Dubai Holding and partner organisations volunteered to facilitate the marketplaces. In addition, other volunteering groups like Nabd Alemarat and AKCAF Association mobilised their volunteers to support the initiative this Ramadan.

Volunteers also completed training workshops hosted in partnership with Innov8 Tech Education Services to further promote circularity and the UN SDG 12. 

Saeed Ahmed Al Tayer, CEO, Social Development Sector, Community Development Authority, said, “Gift It Forward embodies the CDA’s commitment to driving sustainable social development through strategic partnerships with the private and non-profit sectors. In alignment with the Year of Community, this initiative reflects our ongoing efforts to strengthen the social fabric of Dubai by supporting our beneficiaries and encouraging collective responsibility. Dubai Holding’s scale and influence within the city’s economic landscape enabled us to expand our reach this Ramadan and deepen the impact of our work. We are proud of the response this year and look forward to continuing the legacy of Gift It Forward alongside our partners.”

Fatima Ait Bendawad, Global Humanitarian Logistics Competence Center Manager, DHL Global Forwarding added, “Participating in Gift It Forward this Ramadan as a strategic partner has been an incredible privilege. The initiative allowed DHL Global Forwarding to engage local communities meaningfully and simultaneously advance our sustainability commitments. We were thrilled by this unique opportunity to engage with partners that embody Dubai's global business ecosystem and reflect the impact we can create when we pool our resources, expertise and ambitions together. Through this initiative, we continue DHL Global Forwarding’s purpose of connecting people and improving lives.”

Gift It Forward harnessed the collective resources of Dubai Holding brands, including Jumeirah, Global Village and Dubai Parks and Resorts and over 25 partners, including CDA, DHL Global Forwarding, AZADEA Group, L'Occitane en Provence, Virgin Megastore, Apparel Group, Alshaya Group, GMG, The Giving Movement, Fairmont Printing Services, Greenline FZC, Restofair RAK, Rove Hotels, Accenture Middle East, Adeco Technologies LLC and Earthbags, as well as outreach partners Beit Al Khair Society, Dar Al Ber and SmartLife. Execution partners include Lapis Group, Innov8 Tech Education Services and The Surpluss.