The Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai, in collaboration with the Dubai Charity Association, has concluded the ‘Khair Dubai Be Ahlaha’ initiative during the Holy Month, enabling six Emirati home-based entrepreneurial families to collectively earn $70,790 (AED 260,000) while delivering around 13,000 Iftar meals in Muhaisnah.
The Khair Dubai Be Ahlaha initiative combined social support with income generation by engaging home-based entrepreneurs in preparing and supplying meals, directly contributing to household earnings and financial stability during Ramadan.
Despite operational challenges, including time constraints and maintaining food quality before Iftar, families managed efficient delivery through planning and task coordination. Many shared that community appreciation and feedback served as a strong motivator to continue participation.
Ali Alqassim, Director of the Financial Benefits and Empowerment Department at the CDA, said the Khair Dubai Be Ahlaha initiative is part of a broader strategy to transition families ‘from the circle of support to the circle of production and economic sustainability’.
He stated that the Khair Dubai Be Ahlaha program focuses on strengthening economic empowerment by creating seasonal income streams that can evolve into sustainable businesses, while reinforcing the role of families as active contributors to the local economy.
Alqassim further noted that the CDA is working on a comprehensive pathway for productive families under its empowerment plans, positioning the initiative as a starting point for a long-term sustainability journey. This includes project evaluation, capacity building, brand development, and improved market access, with the aim of transitioning families from seasonal home-based production to stable businesses with clear identities and growth potential.
Obaid Alshuweihi, Head of the Financial Empowerment Section, commented that the initiative supported six culinary enterprises this year, with each family preparing around 70 meals daily during Ramadan, delivering both financial returns and skills development in management and marketing.
He added that the CDA provides an integrated support package, including food safety training, logistical and organizational assistance, supply chain linkages, and performance monitoring, to help transform seasonal activities into scalable enterprises.
Looking ahead, participants aim to expand their ventures into year-round businesses by increasing production capacity, opening permanent outlets, and entering larger markets, including major events such as Global Village, while maintaining a strong humanitarian focus.
