Dubai Mosques Stamp Children’s ‘Ramadan Passports’ as Eyal Al Fareej Expands to 300 Locations
Dubai Taraweeh initiative is turning mosque visits into a joyful Ramadan tradition for hundreds of children.
Across Dubai, children aged 6 to 12 now carry special “passports” to mosques during Taraweeh prayers. Each night, they collect stamps after completing their prayers. The initiative, called “Eyal Al Fareej,” has expanded this year to more than 300 mosques.
The programme is led by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD). According to IACAD, the initiative forms part of its broader Ramadan engagement efforts. Officials say the goal is simple: make prayer meaningful and memorable for children.
Fast Facts
- Initiative: “Eyal Al Fareej” encourages children to attend Taraweeh prayers with stamped Ramadan passports.
- Coverage: Expanded in its second year to more than 300 mosques across Dubai.
- Age Group: Designed for children aged 6 to 12 during the holy month of Ramadan.
- Incentive: Surprise ice cream trucks visit mosques to reward participating children.
- Goal: Strengthen children’s connection to mosques and build community spirit.
How the Passport Initiative Works
Children receive a small passport booklet at participating mosques. After Taraweeh prayers, they approach the Imam to receive a stamp. Over time, the passport fills up as a record of their commitment.
This year, organisers added a surprise element. An ice cream truck now visits selected mosques, rewarding children after prayers. Parents say this small gesture creates excitement while reinforcing the importance of worship.
Moza Al Mazrouei, a mother of three, praised the initiative. “The initiative is wonderful. My children now encourage each other to go for prayers because of the passport and the ice cream,” she said.
She explained that her daughter hesitated at first. However, the idea of earning a stamp and possibly receiving ice cream motivated her to attend. “As a mother, I am very happy with this initiative,” she added.
Strengthening Community Bonds During Ramadan
Parents say the initiative does more than reward children. It builds a deeper connection between families, mosques, and neighbourhoods. Fathers and mothers often walk their children to the Imam after prayers, creating warm and memorable moments.
Hamad Al Shamsi, a father from Al Ain who witnessed the programme in Dubai, described it as one of the most beautiful initiatives he has seen. “It strengthens the children’s relationship with the mosque and the neighbourhood,” he said.
He noted that children begin to recognise the Imam and feel part of a healthy competition. This sense of belonging encourages regular attendance throughout the holy month.
Mona Al Jallaf, whose two sons participated last year, echoed the same sentiment. She said the initiative instills love for prayer and commitment at an early age.
The Eyal Al Fareej programme operates under the wider “Season of Wulfa” campaign. The campaign aims to celebrate the UAE’s cultural and religious traditions during Ramadan and promote unity across communities. More information about national Ramadan initiatives can be found on the official UAE government portal at u.ae.
As Ramadan continues, hundreds of children across Dubai now look forward to Taraweeh prayers each night. For many families, the stamped passport has become more than a booklet. It has become a symbol of faith, family bonding, and joyful community spirit.
