Latest news with #AlFreejFridge
Time of India
9 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
This Dubai campaign is handing out 2 million free ice creams and drinks to workers this summer
Why are free icecreams being distributed across the Emirate? Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Dubai's " Al Freej Fridge " campaign has returned for its second year, and it's going bigger this time. The 2025 edition will distribute 2 million bottles of cold water, juices, and frozen treats to outdoor workers across the emirate, doubling last year's initiative, running until August 23, is organised by Ferjan Dubai in partnership with the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), Suqia UAE , and the UAE Food campaign includes deploying mobile refrigerated trucks and fixed fridges across worker hubs. 'Building on last summer's success, we've expanded our goals for 2025,' said Alia Al Shamlan, Director of Ferjan campaign is critical as temperatures in the UAE soar during peak summer, putting thousands of outdoor workers at risk of heat stroke, dehydration, and other heat-related of these workers, from the construction, landscaping, and delivery sectors, perform physically demanding tasks under the blazing sun, often with limited access to cooling initiative seeks to reduce heat-related health risks by providing easy access to cold water and refreshments while highlighting the city's ongoing commitment to worker welfare and community initiative also invites volunteers and residents to participate by delivering items using personal vehicles or helping restock designated fridges at labour added that this would ease the burden of extreme heat on workers who play a vital role in keeping the city sector support has further amplified the effort. Azizi Developments, led by Mirwais Azizi, contributes by distributing refreshments and over 100 tonnes of ice daily to various worker camps and construction described the initiative as part of a long-term commitment to recognising and supporting the workforce that powers the country's infrastructure and UAE and the UAE Food Bank provide the logistical backbone of the project, from water supply to cold storage and transportation. The campaign's organisers describe it as a model for humanitarian collaboration, combining institutional support with grassroots volunteerism.'We see Freej Fridge as more than just a summer project,' said Ibrahim Al Balooshi, Director of Sustainability and Partnerships at MBRGI. 'It's about community and compassion, and acknowledging the people who work in the harshest conditions to support Dubai's growth.'
The National
11 hours ago
- Business
- The National
'Without these labourers we are nothing': Dubai campaign delivers relief amid record heat
As the UAE officially enters summer − following the hottest May on record, with temperatures topping 50°C − authorities and community groups are stepping up efforts to protect outdoor workers from extreme heat. In Dubai, the second year of the Al Freej Fridge campaign − Al Freej means neighbourhood in Arabic − is distributing cold drinks and frozen treats to thousands of frontline workers. As temperatures neared the 40°C mark on Saturday, construction workers from developer Azizi Group received cooling treats from volunteers, including Mirwais Azizi, founder and chairman of Azizi Developments, and four of his grandchildren. The campaign, led by neighbourhood community initiative Ferjan Dubai, with support from the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, the UAE Water Aid Foundation − also known as Suqia − and the UAE Food Bank, aims to distribute more than two million bottles of water, juice and frozen treats to Dubai's frontline workers. Employees including cleaners, construction workers, delivery drivers and landscapers across Dubai are set to benefit from the initiative over the summer months. 'Without these labourers we are nothing. Without them we can't build anything in Dubai.' Mr Azizi told The National. 'I came today to give small gifts to labourers to show them respect.' Ibrahim Al Blooshi, director of sustainability and partnership at MBRGI said: 'Today, we distributed 12,500 items to over 4,000 workers. The initiative will be running until August 23.' Organisers say roaming refrigerated trucks and fixed fridges at worker accommodation ensure consistent access to cold drinks. Volunteers are also using personal vehicles to distribute beverages to sites across the city. Halim Mondal, a 30-year-old Indian carpenter, told The National that it's a good break from his routine work at Azizi Venice construction site in Dubai South. 'Usually, we take break in the afternoon and rest. Today, they asked us to line up for some gifts.' Shahzaib Alaldden, 28-year-old construction worker from Pakistan, said the initiative is a testament that Dubai really cares for its workers. 'I have an ice cream, a bottle of water and juice. It's a beautiful gesture,' Mr Alaldden told The National. 'I've been working in Dubai for six months in Azizi group. With the rise of summer temperatures, our managers make sure that we have enough water and good labour conditions.' The campaign comes as Dubai authorities ramp up enforcement of the midday break rule. The annual ban prevents labourers from carrying out any work under direct sunlight between 12pm and 3pm throughout the three-month period. An estimated half million construction workers in Dubai are expected to benefit from the Ministry of Labour's three-month mandatory midday break regulation this year.
Filipino Times
2 days ago
- General
- Filipino Times
Dubai's 'Al Freej Fridge' to distribute 2 million cold drinks to outdoor workers this summer
Dubai's 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign is set to distribute 2 million bottles of cold water, juices, and frozen treats to outdoor workers this summer. The initiative aims to help protect workers from the extreme heat by providing them with easy access to cold refreshments. Running until August 23, the campaign focuses on workers such as cleaners, construction staff, delivery drivers, and landscapers who spend long hours outdoors under the sun. These workers play an important role in keeping the city functioning. Refrigerated trucks travel across Dubai to deliver cold drinks directly to workers at their outdoor job sites. In addition, fixed refrigerators stocked with water, juices, and frozen treats have been installed in workers' accommodations to increase accessibility. The campaign is organized by Ferjan Dubai with support from the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI). Key partners include the UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia), which supplies bottled water, and the UAE Food Bank, which provides warehouse facilities, refrigerated trucks, and volunteer support. Volunteers from various parts of the community assist in distributing the refreshments, often using their own vehicles. The first edition of the campaign in 2024 successfully delivered 1 million bottles of cold drinks, with support from both government and private sectors. The 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign highlights collaborative efforts to provide practical support for workers during Dubai's hot summer months, ensuring their health and wellbeing are protected.
Zawya
5 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Ferjan Dubai launches second edition of Al Freej Fridge humanitarian campaign
With Support from Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives and in collaboration with Suqia UAE and the UAE Food Bank UAE, Dubai – Supported by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), Ferjan Dubai, in collaboration with the UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia) and the UAE Food Bank, has launched the second edition of the humanitarian community campaign 'Al Freej Fridge.' The initiative aims to distribute 2 million bottles of cold water, juices, and frozen treats to workers across Dubai to help alleviate the effects of summer heat and reinforce the values of solidarity and compassion in the Dubai community. The campaign runs until August 23, covering various areas across the emirate and targeting cleaning and construction workers, delivery drivers, and road and landscaping workers. The goal is to help reduce health risks associated with high temperatures, such as dehydration and heat exhaustion. Suqia UAE and the UAE Food Bank play a pivotal role in supporting the 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign and advancing its humanitarian goals. Suqia UAE provides large quantities of bottled water for distribution to workers, while the UAE Food Bank offers access to its equipped warehouses for storing water, beverages, and frozen items. It also allocates refrigerated distribution vehicles to ensure safe and timely delivery to workers, in addition to mobilizing its volunteers to participate in on-the-ground distribution efforts. Reinforcing Solidarity Values Ibrahim Al Balooshi, Director of Sustainability and Partnerships at MBRGI, said: 'The 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign reflects the essence of our mission at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, which places people at the heart of its priorities. We aim to reinforce the values of solidarity and compassion within UAE society. This campaign is part of our ongoing support for humanitarian and community-driven initiatives that make a direct difference in people's lives and promote the spirit of human unity.' He added: 'Al Freej Fridge is a model of collaborative humanitarian action, where institutional efforts meet community energy and volunteerism to tangibly improve the quality of life for workers—individuals who play a vital role in advancing sustainable development, especially during the harsh summer months. We deeply appreciate Ferjan Dubai for its outstanding efforts in running this campaign for the second year in a row, and for its ongoing commitment to supporting the Dubai community.' A Message of Gratitude Alia Al Shamlan, Director of Ferjan Dubai, stated: 'The 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign is one of our grassroots community initiatives, inspired by our authentic values and the spirit of solidarity that defines our society. Originating in Dubai's residential neighborhoods, the campaign embodies a message of gratitude to the workers who play a fundamental role in the progress and prosperity of the Emirate.' She continued: 'Building on the significant success of the first edition in summer 2024, this second edition expands its reach by aiming to distribute 2 million bottles of cold water, juices, and frozen treats to workers. Our goal is to help ease the impact of extreme heat during the summer and ensure their wellbeing as they carry out essential tasks across the emirate. We greatly value the fruitful cooperation with our campaign partners, which is instrumental in achieving our goals and delivering this humanitarian message to the target groups in the most effective way.' Campaign Implementation As part of the 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign, Ferjan Dubai deploys refrigerated vehicles that roam various districts in Dubai to distribute water, juices, and frozen refreshments to workers at outdoor working sites. The campaign also includes fixed fridges placed in workers' accommodations, stocked with water, juices, and frozen items, further expanding the initiative's reach to as many beneficiaries as possible, while attracting volunteers from various segments of the society to participate in distribution efforts. 'Al Freej Fridge' also engages volunteers from all segments of society to take part in the distribution efforts. The campaign has encouraged community members to use their personal vehicles to deliver cold beverages to workers, fostering a spirit of cooperation and social unity in the UAE. Campaign partners play a critical role by providing resources and logistical support to ensure efficient execution and widespread coverage across Dubai—maximizing its reach, drawing smiles, and bringing joy to workers' hearts. The first edition of the 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign, held in summer 2024, was a major success, having distributed 1 million bottles of cold water, juices, and frozen treats to workers in Dubai. The initiative also received widespread support from government entities and private companies. The campaign reflects Ferjan Dubai's efforts to strengthen the commitment of neighborhood residents toward their social responsibility—particularly in appreciation of workers' dedication and hard work. Ferjan Dubai is a social enterprise that aims to empower local communities in Dubai's neighborhoods and foster strong connections and trust between them and public and private institutions. It does so by encouraging volunteerism and community engagement to drive social movement, elevate quality of life, and promote positive behaviors and values within society.
Al Bawaba
5 days ago
- Health
- Al Bawaba
Ferjan Dubai launches second edition of Al Freej Fridge humanitarian campaign to distribute 2 million bottles of water, juices, and frozen treats to workers
Supported by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), Ferjan Dubai, in collaboration with the UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia) and the UAE Food Bank, has launched the second edition of the humanitarian community campaign 'Al Freej Fridge.' The initiative aims to distribute 2 million bottles of cold water, juices, and frozen treats to workers across Dubai to help alleviate the effects of summer heat and reinforce the values of solidarity and compassion in the Dubai community. The campaign runs until August 23, covering various areas across the emirate and targeting cleaning and construction workers, delivery drivers, and road and landscaping workers. The goal is to help reduce health risks associated with high temperatures, such as dehydration and heat exhaustion. Suqia UAE and the UAE Food Bank play a pivotal role in supporting the 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign and advancing its humanitarian goals. Suqia UAE provides large quantities of bottled water for distribution to workers, while the UAE Food Bank offers access to its equipped warehouses for storing water, beverages, and frozen items. It also allocates refrigerated distribution vehicles to ensure safe and timely delivery to workers, in addition to mobilizing its volunteers to participate in on-the-ground distribution efforts. Reinforcing Solidarity Values Ibrahim Al Balooshi, Director of Sustainability and Partnerships at MBRGI, said: 'The 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign reflects the essence of our mission at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, which places people at the heart of its priorities. We aim to reinforce the values of solidarity and compassion within UAE society. This campaign is part of our ongoing support for humanitarian and community-driven initiatives that make a direct difference in people's lives and promote the spirit of human unity.' He added: 'Al Freej Fridge is a model of collaborative humanitarian action, where institutional efforts meet community energy and volunteerism to tangibly improve the quality of life for workers—individuals who play a vital role in advancing sustainable development, especially during the harsh summer months. We deeply appreciate Ferjan Dubai for its outstanding efforts in running this campaign for the second year in a row, and for its ongoing commitment to supporting the Dubai community.' A Message of Gratitude Alia Al Shamlan, Director of Ferjan Dubai, stated: 'The 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign is one of our grassroots community initiatives, inspired by our authentic values and the spirit of solidarity that defines our society. Originating in Dubai's residential neighborhoods, the campaign embodies a message of gratitude to the workers who play a fundamental role in the progress and prosperity of the Emirate.' She continued: 'Building on the significant success of the first edition in summer 2024, this second edition expands its reach by aiming to distribute 2 million bottles of cold water, juices, and frozen treats to workers. Our goal is to help ease the impact of extreme heat during the summer and ensure their wellbeing as they carry out essential tasks across the emirate. We greatly value the fruitful cooperation with our campaign partners, which is instrumental in achieving our goals and delivering this humanitarian message to the target groups in the most effective way.' Campaign Implementation As part of the 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign, Ferjan Dubai deploys refrigerated vehicles that roam various districts in Dubai to distribute water, juices, and frozen refreshments to workers at outdoor working sites. The campaign also includes fixed fridges placed in workers' accommodations, stocked with water, juices, and frozen items, further expanding the initiative's reach to as many beneficiaries as possible, while attracting volunteers from various segments of the society to participate in distribution efforts. 'Al Freej Fridge' also engages volunteers from all segments of society to take part in the distribution efforts. The campaign has encouraged community members to use their personal vehicles to deliver cold beverages to workers, fostering a spirit of cooperation and social unity in the UAE. Campaign partners play a critical role by providing resources and logistical support to ensure efficient execution and widespread coverage across Dubai—maximizing its reach, drawing smiles, and bringing joy to workers' hearts. The first edition of the 'Al Freej Fridge' campaign, held in summer 2024, was a major success, having distributed 1 million bottles of cold water, juices, and frozen treats to workers in Dubai. The initiative also received widespread support from government entities and private companies. The campaign reflects Ferjan Dubai's efforts to strengthen the commitment of neighborhood residents toward their social responsibility—particularly in appreciation of workers' dedication and hard work. Ferjan Dubai is a social enterprise that aims to empower local communities in Dubai's neighborhoods and foster strong connections and trust between them and public and private institutions. It does so by encouraging volunteerism and community engagement to drive social movement, elevate quality of life, and promote positive behaviors and values within society.
