Iftar on Us Initiative 2024: Promoting Road Safety during Ramadan
The sixteenth edition of the “Your Iftar is on Us” campaign has been launched
With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, the “Your Iftar is on Us” initiative launched its sixteenth edition under the slogan “Don’t Speed… Your Iftar is on Us,” continuing its successful mission of spreading goodwill and promoting road safety in the Kingdom. This year, the initiative targets the cities of Riyadh, Jeddah, and Khobar, distributing thousands of free Iftar meals to drivers and pedestrians at traffic lights and busy intersections just before sunset.
Background of the initiative and its noble goals
Excessive speeding before Iftar (the breaking of the fast) is one of the most significant traffic challenges during Ramadan in many countries, as drivers strive to reach their homes on time, increasing the likelihood of traffic accidents. In response, the "Your Iftar is on Us" initiative was born as an innovative community-based solution combining charitable work with traffic awareness. The campaign primarily aims to reduce accidents by encouraging drivers to slow down and stop safely to break their fast, emphasizing that the safety of lives comes first. Furthermore, the initiative seeks to reinforce the values of social solidarity and generosity that characterize Saudi society, especially during this holy month.
Its importance and broad societal impact
The “Your Iftar is on Us” initiative derives its significance from its direct and positive impact on the community. Locally, the campaign contributes tangibly to reducing traffic accidents during peak Ramadan hours, thus protecting lives and property. It also serves as a leading platform for volunteer work, engaging hundreds of volunteers of all ages, fostering a culture of social responsibility and belonging. Over the years, the initiative has successfully distributed hundreds of thousands of meals, with some editions exceeding 30,000 meals distributed by more than 1,000 volunteers, reflecting its remarkable success and impact.
An inspiring model for community partnership
This initiative reflects the inherent spirit of giving within Saudi society and embodies the highest ideals of integration and partnership across various sectors. Its continued success is a result of the combined efforts of the private sector, relevant government agencies, and civil society, represented by volunteer teams. This model of collaboration not only serves the campaign's immediate objectives but also sets a benchmark for harnessing energies and resources to address vital societal issues, aligning with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 to enhance quality of life and develop the non-profit sector.
