Your Iftar is on Us Initiative: Distributing Iftar Meals in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Khobar
In a Ramadan atmosphere brimming with the spirit of giving and social solidarity, the 16th edition of the “Your Iftar is on Us” initiative, one of the most prominent seasonal community initiatives in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, has been launched. This initiative, operating under the slogan “Don’t Speed… Your Iftar is on Us,” aims to distribute thousands of Iftar meals to fasting individuals and drivers on main roads and at traffic lights, as part of a comprehensive effort to enhance road safety during the holy month.
Strategic goals that go beyond food distribution
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) explained that this initiative is not limited to the charitable aspect of providing food, but also carries an important educational and safety dimension. It is well known that the minutes preceding the Maghrib prayer (sunset prayer) typically witness a significant increase in traffic density, often accompanied by reckless driving and high speeds by some drivers trying to reach their destinations before Iftar (the breaking of the fast). This is where the initiative comes in, curbing this speeding by providing a light and nutritious Iftar meal for drivers, thus giving them peace of mind and reducing the urge to rush, and consequently contributing directly to lowering traffic accident rates and protecting lives and property.
Broad geographical coverage and youth participation
This year, the initiative's scope encompasses three major cities with significant population and traffic volumes: Riyadh, the capital; Jeddah; and Al-Khobar. High-traffic locations were carefully selected to ensure the safe and smooth delivery of meals to the largest possible number of beneficiaries. This noble mission is carried out by a dedicated team of over 1,000 young Saudi men and women, embodying the finest examples of volunteerism and eager to serve their community, pilgrims, and travelers, reflecting the deeply rooted values of Saudi society.
A history full of giving and sustainability
The “Your Iftar is on Us” initiative derives its credibility and strength from its long history of 16 years of continuous giving. Over the years, the initiative has successfully distributed tens of thousands of meals, with some previous editions reaching nearly 30,000 iftar meals. This continuity and growth reflects the initiative's success in building an effective community partnership between government agencies, the private sector, and volunteers, and underscores the importance of sustainable institutional charitable work that leaves a tangible impact on people's lives and enhances quality of life and public safety on the Kingdom's roads.
