Gifting with goodness
Adopt a mangrove
Buy a loved one a mangrove sapling at Al Zorah Nature Reserve with Azraq in Ajman and know that you’ll play a vital part in preserving the future of the UAE’s coastline! You can also sponsor the planting of a coral fragment and support the restoration of the underwater ecosystem, too.
Turn old into new
While Dubai might be filled with the shiny and new, second-hand shops and markets are popping up all over the city – perfect for buying a Christmas gift that keeps the circular economy turning. Head to Shop Retold, La Brocante, Reem’s Closet, Secondful and Showcase DXB for everything from vintage furniture and second-hand homeware to fashion, toys, books and more.
Vouchers for good
Ithara, a UAE experience-gifting platform, has joined forces with Gulf for Good to launch Vouchers for Good. The collection of charitable digital vouchers turns gifting into genuine, measurable impact for children and adults with disabilities in Madagascar. You can give the gift of Learning, Guidance, Knowledge or Nourishment for the ultimate present with purpose.
Art from the heart
Buy an artwork from Mawaheb and support the creative journey of its special needs students. Head to the café and pick up a tote bag, coffee cup set, waterbottle, notebook or scarf showcasing the students’ artwork, each piece a celebration of their boundless talent.
Shop local
Few things feel better than buying something from a local artisan, knowing you’re supporting a small business and lessening your impact on the planet at the same time. For gifts with a side order of storytelling, head to House of Artisans at Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi, or in Dubai, stock up on unique pieces at Al Fahidi Historical District Artisan Market, ARTE – The Maker’s Market, Ripe Market and Al Serkal’s Farmer’s Market.
Memory makers
If you’re worried about buying more ‘things’, gift an experience instead, such as an e-book, a movie or massage voucher, a bookstore gift card, a family day out or tickets to the theatre. A subscription is also a great idea and the gift that keeps on giving. Check out Akindemy and Ink Crate for books, JamaliBox for beauty products, The Happy Box for creative families and Buddy Box for those with a four-legged friend.
Guilt-free goodies
Whether you’re vegan, gifting a vegan or just want to do your bit for the planet without sacrificing style, think plant-based for your next purchase. Tyler Ellis has a collection of eco-luxe apple skin leather handbags that are high on style and sustainability, while Veganologie has a collection of bags that turn waste-reduction into wearable elegance, made from reimagined recycled materials or from renewable bamboo.
Good deeds
Reuse & repurpose
Sort through old toys and clothes and donate them to one of the UAE’s registered charitable initiatives, such as Emirates Red Crescent, Beit Al Khair Society and Thrift for Good. It’s a great way to declutter, donate to a good cause and give pre-loved things a second chance at life.
Volunteer your time
There are plenty of places that will be grateful for the extra help over the holidays, especially those with four-legged friends to take care of. Why not take a dog for a walk at Dubai’s K9 Friends and the Stray Dogs Centre in Umm Al Quwain, or foster an animal with Yanni Animal Welfare and Nine Lives.
Make your own presents
A personalised or handmade present is always more meaningful and there are plenty of places in Dubai that let you design and create keepsakes whilst trying your hand at a new craft. To whip up something on a pottery wheel, head to The Mud House Studio or Dubai Pottery, or to Wood Wizards for some carpentry creativity. To give the present of a painting, pick up a brush at The Jam Jar or Wild Paint House, or fuel the festive season with foodie gifts through a cookery class at the Culinary Boutique.
Clean up your act
Do your part this festive season and join a community initiative, such as a beach clean-up with Emirates Environmental Group or Goumbook’s Save the Butts campaign. Good for both the environment and the soul, with a side order of social responsibility.
