Hamdan bin Mohammed Launches Second ‘Kharayef Al Rutab’ Initiative to Benefit 5,000 Families and Preserve Emirati Heritage
Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, has initiated the second edition of the ‘Kharayef Al Rutab’ program. This community initiative, spearheaded by the Community Development Authority (CDA), aims to merge the preservation of Emirati heritage with humanitarian outreach and support for local agriculture.
Collaboration for Community Welfare
The initiative is organized in collaboration with the UAE Food Bank, Dubai Municipality, the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center, national farms, and volunteers. It celebrates the fresh date harvest season, locally known as Al Qayz, while promoting values of generosity, social cohesion, and community giving.
This year’s campaign is set to distribute fresh dates to over 5,000 families and other beneficiary groups across Dubai, supported by 1,000 Emirati volunteers and national farms. The initiative aligns with the Dubai Social Agenda 33, focusing on enhancing social cohesion, improving quality of life, and promoting sustainability.
Distribution Through Community Majalis
Fresh dates will be distributed through a network of CDA community Majalis, including:
- Umm Suqeim Majlis
- Al Khawaneej Majlis
- Nad Al Sheba Majlis
- Al Warqa Majlis
- Al Barsha Majlis
The initiative aims to reinforce the role of community Majalis as centers for social engagement and support, ensuring that fresh produce reaches families and other target groups throughout the emirate.
Cultural Significance and Heritage Preservation
In addition to its humanitarian goals, the initiative seeks to educate younger generations about the cultural importance of the date palm and revive awareness of the traditional Qayz season. This season is historically linked with generosity, hospitality, and community bonds in the UAE.
Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director-General of the Community Development Authority, emphasized the initiative’s role in strengthening community partnerships and preserving national values. She expressed pride in establishing this national initiative and welcomed the expanded collaboration with government partners this year. Through the network of community Majalis, the initiative aims to deliver the fresh date harvest to beneficiary families while reinforcing national identity and preserving authentic values and traditions.
Commitment to Sustainability and Local Agriculture
Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director-General of Dubai Municipality and Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the UAE Food Bank, highlighted the initiative’s commitment to transforming seasonal acts of generosity into sustainable community programs. He stated that the initiative aims to reduce food waste, support national farms, strengthen food security, and reinforce Dubai’s position as a global model for sustainability and humanitarian action.
Bin Ghalita noted that the program also supports the local economy, encourages volunteerism, and demonstrates how agricultural harvests can create lasting community impact.
Distribution Schedule
The distribution of fresh dates across Dubai will follow this schedule:
- Umm Suqeim Majlis – 20 July
- Nad Al Sheba Majlis – 21 July
- Al Warqa Majlis – 22 July
- Al Barsha Majlis – 23 July
- Al Khawaneej Majlis – 24 July
Activities related to the initiative will continue throughout the fresh date season, accompanied by awareness programs that highlight the cultural significance of the date palm and promote the sustainable use of locally grown agricultural produce.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-07-19 17:52:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk