In a heartening move ahead of Eid al-Fitr, the Khalidia Council in Sharjah has launched a community-driven initiative called “Let Them Celebrate” (or “لنفرحهم في الأعياد” in Arabic), aimed at ensuring children from low-income families experience the festive joy despite their families’ financial challenges. The program, announced by Sharjah Municipality, reflects a broader regional commitment to social welfare during religious holidays, particularly in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where Eid celebrations are deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions.

The initiative aligns with global trends of municipal support for vulnerable populations during holidays, as seen in similar programs across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. While details of the Khalidia Council’s specific actions remain under review, the broader framework of such initiatives typically includes cash assistance, food packages, and educational support to alleviate financial burdens on families during festive periods.

As the UAE prepares for Eid al-Fitr, which is expected to fall on June 24, 2026, according to Islamic lunar calendars, the Khalidia Council’s efforts underscore the importance of inclusive community-building. The program’s name—“Let Them Celebrate”—highlights its mission to foster happiness among children, regardless of their families’ economic circumstances.

What Is the ‘Let Them Celebrate’ Initiative?

The ‘Let Them Celebrate’ initiative is designed to address the financial disparities that often prevent children from participating in Eid celebrations. In the UAE, Eid al-Fitr is a time of family gatherings, gift-giving, and communal feasts, but for low-income families, these traditions can be financially straining. The Khalidia Council’s program aims to mitigate these challenges by providing direct support to eligible families.

While the exact mechanisms of the initiative are still being finalized, similar programs in the region have included:

• Cash assistance: Direct financial aid to cover Eid expenses such as new clothes, food, and gifts.
• Food and grocery packages: Distribution of essential items to ensure families can host traditional Eid meals.
• Educational support: Workshops or resources to help parents engage children in cultural and religious activities during the holiday.
• Community events: Organized gatherings where children can participate in festive activities, fostering a sense of inclusion.

Sharjah Municipality has historically been proactive in social welfare initiatives. For example, in 2025, the municipality launched a similar program to support families during Ramadan, providing meals and educational materials to schools in underserved areas. The ‘Let Them Celebrate’ initiative builds on this legacy, tailoring support specifically to the Eid season.

Who Is Eligible for Support?

Eligibility for the ‘Let Them Celebrate’ initiative is typically determined by socioeconomic criteria, though exact details have not been publicly confirmed. In the UAE, such programs often target:

• Families registered with the Ministry of Social Development or local councils as low-income.
• Single-parent households or those with special needs.
• Refugees or expatriate families facing financial hardship.

To apply, families are usually required to submit documentation such as residency visas, income statements, or letters from social workers. The Khalidia Council may also collaborate with local mosques, schools, and community centers to identify families in need. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, residents are advised to contact the Sharjah Municipality directly or visit their official service centers.

How Does the Initiative Align with Broader UAE Social Policies?

The ‘Let Them Celebrate’ initiative is part of a larger framework of social welfare policies in the UAE, which prioritize inclusivity and community support. The UAE government has increasingly emphasized social cohesion, particularly during religious and national holidays. Key policies include:

• Hukumat Program: A national initiative to provide financial aid to low-income families, including support during Eid and Ramadan.
• Community Development Funds: Local councils allocate funds for grassroots initiatives, such as food drives and educational programs.
• Partnerships with NGOs: Organizations like the Emirates Red Crescent and local charities often collaborate with municipalities to expand reach.

Sharjah, in particular, has been recognized for its innovative social programs. In 2024, the city launched the “Sharjah Cares” initiative, which focuses on mental health support and financial aid for families during crises. The ‘Let Them Celebrate’ initiative extends this approach to the festive season, ensuring that no child is left out of the joy of Eid.

What Challenges Might Families Face?

Despite the UAE’s robust social safety nets, some families may still struggle to access support due to bureaucratic hurdles or lack of awareness. Common challenges include:

• Documentation barriers: Families may lack the necessary paperwork to prove eligibility, such as updated residency visas or employment letters.
• Language and cultural barriers: Non-Arabic speakers or expatriates may find it tricky to navigate application processes.
• Stigma around assistance: Some families may hesitate to apply due to concerns about privacy or social judgment.

To address these issues, Sharjah Municipality has historically partnered with UAE Interact, a government platform that simplifies access to social services. The platform provides multilingual support and digital applications, reducing barriers for expatriate families.

How Can Families Apply for Support?

While the official application process for the ‘Let Them Celebrate’ initiative has not been publicly detailed, families can take the following steps to seek assistance:

1. Contact Khalidia Council: Reach out via phone or email to inquire about eligibility and application procedures. The council’s contact information can typically be found on the Sharjah Municipality website.
2. Visit local community centers: Many councils operate service centers where social workers can assist with applications.
3. Engage with NGOs: Organizations like the Emirates Red Crescent often help bridge gaps in social support.
4. Check for digital platforms: Platforms like UAE Interact may offer online applications for social aid programs.

Families are encouraged to act promptly, as support is often distributed in the weeks leading up to Eid. Delays in application processing can sometimes occur due to high demand, so early outreach is advisable.

What Happens Next?

The Khalidia Council is expected to finalize the distribution of support packages in the coming weeks. Families who have already applied will likely receive updates via SMS or email from the municipality. For those who have not yet applied, it is recommended to contact the council directly to avoid missing out.

Looking ahead, Sharjah Municipality may expand the ‘Let Them Celebrate’ initiative to include other holidays, such as Christmas and New Year, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to inclusivity regardless of religious background. The success of this program could also serve as a model for other municipalities in the region.

Key Takeaways

• The ‘Let Them Celebrate’ initiative by Khalidia Council aims to ensure children from low-income families in Sharjah can participate in Eid al-Fitr celebrations.
• Support may include cash assistance, food packages, and educational resources, though exact details are still under review.
• Eligibility is typically based on socioeconomic status, with families required to submit documentation such as residency visas.
• The initiative aligns with broader UAE policies on social welfare, including the Hukumat Program and partnerships with NGOs.
• Families facing challenges with documentation or language barriers can seek assistance from community centers or digital platforms like UAE Interact.

As the UAE prepares for Eid al-Fitr, the Khalidia Council’s ‘Let Them Celebrate’ initiative serves as a reminder of the power of community support during challenging times. If you or someone you know may benefit from this program, we encourage you to reach out to Sharjah Municipality for more information.

Share your experiences or questions in the comments below, and let us know how your community is celebrating Eid this year.