Abu Dhabi: During the Holy Month of Ramadan, Erth Abu Dhabi continues its longstanding tradition of generosity by preparing and distributing more than 95,000 Iftar meals daily across the emirate, with the initiative sponsored by Zayed for Good Foundation, an affiliate of Erth Zayed Philanthropies to support communities gathering to break their fast.

This program serves worshippers at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, as well as the Sheikh Khalifa Mosque in Al Ain. It also supplies integrated weekly food packages to the Specialised Economic Zones (ZonesCorp), supporting the preparation of daily Iftar meals for beneficiaries from diverse communities.

Each evening, thousands gather at these mosques to share Iftar, reflecting the UAE’s deeply rooted values of compassion and hospitality.

“Ramadan embodies the values of generosity, compassion, and unity that are deeply rooted in the UAE’s identity. Through this initiative, Erth Abu Dhabi is proud to prepare and distribute Iftar meals across the UAE, supporting communities and worshippers throughout the holy month. This effort honors the enduring legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose vision of giving continues to inspire initiatives that strengthen our communities,” said Shaikha Al Kaabi, Chief Executive Officer of Erth Abu Dhabi.

Held annually since 2004, the initiative reflects the UAE’s longstanding commitment to community care and service. Behind every Iftar meal lies a carefully coordinated culinary operation that begins 24 hours in advance, with Erth’s chefs prioritizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Seasonal vegetables are washed and prepared from trusted local suppliers, while premium chicken and lamb are marinated with traditional spices to enhance both flavor and quality.

By 5:00 a.m., chefs begin preparing aromatic masala blends used in rice and accompanying dishes. From 8:00 a.m. to midday, rice and roasted chicken or meat are cooked in large batches, followed by meal assembly between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Distribution begins at 2:30 p.m., ensuring Iftar boxes arrive at mosques and community locations in time for sunset.

Each Iftar box is thoughtfully prepared to provide a balanced meal after a day of fasting, typically including marinated roasted chicken or meat with biryani rice, vegetable salona, mixed salad, dates, laban, juice, water, and apple.

To support the scale of the initiative, Erth’s kitchens prepare significant quantities of ingredients daily, including 30,000 kg of chicken, 15,000 kg of lamb, 15,000 kg of rice, and 15,000 kg of locally sourced vegetables, complemented by traditional spices such as cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and dry lemon that create the rich flavors associated with Ramadan dining.

Delivering thousands of meals each day requires the coordination of a large team working behind the scenes. The operation involves more than 650 chefs across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Fujairah, supported by 400 stewarding staff, 800 food packagers, and 200 drivers and logistics personnel.

With the support of 150 delivery trucks, the team ensures that Iftar meals are delivered to mosques and community locations across the emirate in time for sunset each day.

Through this initiative, Erth Abu Dhabi, supported by Zayed for Good Foundation, an affiliate of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, continues to serve communities observing the fast while upholding a longstanding tradition of giving that reflects the enduring values of the UAE.