News DeskDubai, UAE – Dubai Holding, a diversified global investment company with operations in 34 countries, has announced the return of its philanthropic initiative, Gift It Forward, for the Holy Month of Ramadan. In partnership with the Community Development Authority (CDA) and DHL Global Forwarding, the initiative aims to unite public and private sector partners to repurpose new inventory items and donate them to low-income individuals and families across Dubai.
Building on the success of its 2024 edition, which distributed 120,000 items valued at over AED 7 million to more than 10,500 beneficiaries, the 2025 initiative will expand its reach and impact. This year’s campaign aligns with the UAE’s 2025 Year of Community and Dubai Holding’s Sustainability Strategy, promoting responsible consumption and production in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12.
The initiative focuses on repurposing new inventory, including personal care items, clothing, accessories, homeware, and toys, from Dubai Holding’s portfolio companies and contributing partners. By diverting these items from landfills, Gift It Forward not only supports those in need but also advances the circular economy. Last year, the initiative successfully prevented over 30 tonnes of materials from ending up in landfills.
To enhance the experience for beneficiaries, Dubai Holding will introduce a vibrant marketplace where individuals can select gifts tailored to their needs. This innovative approach ensures that the initiative remains impactful and inclusive.
Huda Buhumaid, Chief Impact Officer at Dubai Holding, emphasized the initiative’s dual purpose: “Gift It Forward is a powerful model of how collective action can create positive change within our communities. It uplifts those in need while promoting a fundamental shift in how we approach consumption habits as businesses and individuals. This initiative harnesses the collective force of our diverse portfolio to advance our commitment to being a force For The Good of Tomorrow.”
Saeed Ahmed Al Tayer, CEO of the Social Development Sector at CDA, highlighted the importance of collaboration: “The success of last year’s initiative demonstrated the profound impact of fostering a culture of giving and social solidarity. By continuing our partnership with Dubai Holding, we reaffirm our commitment to enhancing the well-being of Dubai’s communities and ensuring that the values of compassion and generosity reach those who need them most.”
DHL Global Forwarding, a strategic partner, will leverage its logistics expertise to reduce carbon emissions during distribution. Fatima Ait Bendawad, Global Humanitarian Logistics Competence Center Manager at DHL, stated, “This effort exemplifies how Dubai’s global business community can transform resources into a force for positive social and environmental change.”
The 2025 edition of Gift It Forward brings together over 25 partners, including Dubai Holding brands like Jumeirah and Dubai Parks and Resorts, as well as prominent names such as AZADEA Group, L’Occitane en Provence, Virgin Megastore, and The Giving Movement. Outreach partners include Beit Al Khair Society, Dar Al Ber, and SmartLife, while execution partners like Lapis Group and Innov8 Tech Education Services ensure seamless implementation.
The initiative also fosters a culture of volunteering and sustainability awareness. Employees from Dubai Holding and partner organizations will participate in workshops on recycling and the circular economy, empowering them to become sustainability champions within their communities.
Gift It Forward builds on Dubai Holding’s legacy of community outreach, including initiatives like the Innovate for Tomorrow Challenge, the A Meal for a Brighter Tomorrow partnership with the UN World Food Programme, and the award-winning Life Goals campaign to boost financial literacy among blue-collar workers.
As Ramadan approaches, Gift It Forward stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, compassion, and sustainable action, embodying the spirit of the UAE’s Year of Community.
