Muscat – In a heartwarming example of community spirit, a small group of volunteers from different faiths has come together for the sixth consecutive year to distribute iftar meals to fasting workers across Oman.

An idea that started as a small initiativehas  now grown into a meaningful annual initiative that serves over hundred people every day during Ramadan.

The six-member team, made up of office-goers, homemakers and students, dedicates their evenings throughout the holy month to ensure blue-collar workers and others observing the fast can break it with a wholesome meal. The iftar packs typically include dates, fruits, laban and biriyani, and are distributed just minutes before iftar.

The volunteers travel to various parts of Muscat including Ruwi, Darsait, Ghubra, Amerat and Qurum, and sometimes as far as Suhar. The recipients include labourers, taxi drivers, domestic workers, mall employees and even office-goers who are still on duty at iftar time.

Speaking about the initiative, Aymaan Yousuf said, “The spirit of service has deep roots. We do this every year. The idea actually started almost 13 years ago when we distributed fruit juice to people breaking their fast. Over time, it evolved into a full iftar distribution. We try to serve the community in whatever way we can.”

For some of the team members, balancing work and service can be challenging, but the commitment remains strong. Anitha R, one of the team members, noted that organising the meals requires time management and effort. “Most of us are working, and sometimes it becomes a challenge to put together the boxes. Many of our team members are fasting too, yet the spirit is always high. Seeing the happiness among the people makes it worthwhile,” she said.

The initiative is supported by donations from companies and philanthropists, and the team hopes to expand its volunteer base next year to reach even more people.