Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Jail time, Dh300,000 fine for donations without permit

Anyone caught receiving or collecting donations without a permit will be penalized with jail time and a fine of up to Dh300,000, according to the Department of Community Development (DCD) Abu Dhabi. The DCD issued the reminder after reports of Abu Dhabi residents paying restaurants and caterers to prepare iftar meals for free distribution. “Imprisonment and a fine of no less than Dh150,000 and no more than Dh300,000 will be imposed on any entity collecting or receiving donations without obtaining a permit,” according to the DCD. The DCD noted that “establishing, organising, or performing any act aimed at collecting donations in Abu Dhabi is not allowed without a permit from the DCD.” “Individuals who would like to make charitable contributions can do so through in-kind or cash donations made to fundraising licensed entities or regulated donation boxes,” the DCD said in a statement. “This helps regulate donations by protecting donor’s funds and ensuring they reach the right beneficiaries,” it added. The department also clarified that preparing, buying and distributing iftar meals to families in the neighbourhood or passers-by is acceptable “as long as they do not collect any money or donations for illegal purposes.” ICA/Expat Media
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