Zayed Humanitarian Day, observed on the 19^th of Ramadan, stands as an embodiment of the values championed by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who laid the foundations of philanthropy and made service to humanity a pillar of the UAE's mission and identity. Commemorating this occasion extends beyond honoring the legacy of a visionary leader; it is a renewed commitment to follow in his footsteps and uphold the values of altruism and solidarity that define the UAE, particularly as it coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, a time associated with goodness and compassion.

From an Islamic perspective, giving is regarded as a profound act of worship and a means of drawing closer to the Creator. The Holy Quran urges believers to practice benevolence, promising multiplied rewards for those who give in pursuit of His pleasure. Allah (the Almighty) says: "Who is it that would loan Allah a goodly loan so He may multiply it for him many times over?" The Quran also states: "Whatever good you put forward for yourselves, you will find it with Allah," and "We feed you only for the sake of Allah; we seek neither reward nor gratitude from you." This is echoed in the Prophetic Sunnah. The Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) said: "The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others" and "Wealth is never diminished by charity (sadaqah)." These sacred texts underscore that giving does not diminish sustenance, but rather increases it. Acts of kindness toward others are among the greatest deeds that bring a believer closer to their Lord.

The late Sheikh Zayed embodied these values in practice. He firmly believed that people are the pillars of development and the bedrock of civilization, stressing that true wealth lies not in money but in people. Under his leadership, humanitarian work evolved into an institutional approach and a national policy. Its impact extended across the world, from the construction of hospitals and schools to well-drilling projects and the provision of humanitarian relief, without regard for race or religion. It is for this reason that the UAE has earned its reputation as a nation of giving and generosity, with its name synonymous with development and humanitarian initiatives that serve to uphold human dignity everywhere.

With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, the UAE's spirit of giving manifests in iftar tables set across the country, food baskets distributed, zakat paid, and charity given through established philanthropic institutions to continue the path of generosity. This spirit is not confined to official channels; individuals and households also actively participate, highlighting a deep-rooted solidarity within Emirati society.

Humanitarian work has a profound impact on society. It strengthens community cohesion, bridges social gaps, and fosters a sense of belonging and trust among all community members. Volunteering instills in young people a sense of responsibility and leadership, offering a platform to contribute meaningfully and serve their country. At the individual level, the act of giving purifies the soul and brings profound tranquility and inner fulfillment as Allah (the Almighty) says in the Holy Quran: "You will never attain righteousness until you give from what you love."

Under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE continues to advance this approach. He has emphasized that the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed is a responsibility to be carried forward, and that his values must be translated into initiatives that serve humanity at large. The UAE remains at the forefront of humanitarian and relief efforts, providing aid in healthcare, education, and food security in response to global crises and in support of sustainable development, driven by a firm belief that human dignity transcends all other considerations.

In the UAE, the spirit of giving is not limited to the holy month of Ramadan; it is a year-round commitment rooted in a vision to sustain philanthropic efforts and transform charitable work into an institutionalized practice that fosters development and preserves human dignity. Zayed Humanitarian Day remains an inspiring national occasion that renews the spirit of benevolence and compassion, emphasizing that this nation was built on the values of giving and tolerance and will continue to serve as a global beacon for humanity for generations to come.

May Allah grant mercy to our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed, and reward the leadership and people of the UAE for their infinite generosity. May He ensure the path of goodness remains steadfast, guiding our journey toward a more compassionate and brighter future.

Khalid Saleh Al Shamma 

Head of Unclaimed Dividends Oversight Section