SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Being able to help others while running their businesses was a golden opportunity that entrepreneurs embraced as they took part in the five-day Athar Festival at Manarat Al Saadiyat last week.
Launched by the Endowments and Minors’ Funds Authority – Awqaf Abu Dhabi, the festival ran under the theme “With You for Life”, highlighting social connection, family values, and community giving. It featured entertainment, workshops, and retail experiences, with proceeds going to the Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans initiative.
“When we saw that the initiative supports orphans, we knew we wanted to take part,” said entrepreneur Naila Al Rumaithi, who showcased her range of locally made natural body and hair products.
Al Rumaithi described the festival as “a beautiful humanitarian effort” and expressed pride in contributing to the cause.
Business owners Shamma Al Balushi and Mohammed Ghazi also pledged a portion of their sales to supporting orphans without increasing their prices.
“The idea of leaving a positive impact quietly is what encouraged us to participate,” said the duo who represented a homegrown personal care and fragrance brand.
Maha, who participated with her home-based perfume concept, expressed how deeply helping others matters to her. “Supporting orphans is not only about donations, but about making them feel cared for and supported. We have a role as a community to stand by them and show that they are not alone,” she said.
Another participant, Maktoum Al Marar, said championing such initiatives is a meaningful way to give back to the community.
“Supporting orphans helps create a lasting, positive impact in society. It reflects the values of giving and solidarity that we hold close,” he said.
The compassion and generosity on display resonated with visitors, many of whom turned up specifically to make a difference. “We know that with every purchase, part of it goes to support orphans, and that is why we felt it was important to come,” said Aisha Al Jneibi.
Fatima Mohammed praised the initiative for making it easier for people to give back “in a practical way”. “Being here is about supporting a cause that truly matters to society,” she added.
For regular attendees of charitable events like Ibrahim Al Balushi, simply being present was meaningful. “It gives me a sense of purpose and the feeling that I’ve achieved something positive for the community,” he said.