Charitable work and social solidarity have been the fundamental pillars of UAE society and have always helped the people of this country to face all kinds of hardships before the discovery of oil and the advent of prosperity. Philanthropy has developed with the growth of the emirate, as reflected in the establishment of charitable societies and organizations dedicated to alms-giving and charitable activities. Other contributors include government institutions and domestic initiatives launched by UAE nationals as well as other residents. Hence, Dubai has become a city that cares, a city that gives a helping hand to needy people worldwide.

Approved Charitable and Voluntary Organizations
While there are many voluntary and charitable organizations operating in Dubai, the three government entities who can give official recognition and licenses for charitable organizations, NGOs and humanitarian relief organizations are the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, the International Humanitarian City and the Community and Development Authority.

See list of charity associations in Dubai – Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department
See list of Islamic centres and guidance societies - Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department
See list of licensed humanitarian organizations – International Humanitarian City
See rules for licensing religious and charitable societies or Islamic centres - Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department
Calculation of Zakat and electronic payment  – Zakat Fund
See list of all Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) for UAE – Musahama website of Ministry of Labour
Register your NGO or social service in Dubai - Community Development Authority
Support for charitable initiatives by private sector companies – Social Responsibility Fund
Sponsor orphans, poor families and students – UAE Red Crescent Society
See CDA website – Community Development Authority