The donation was handed over symbolically by UAE Ambassador to Indonesia Abdulla Salem Obaid Al Dhaheri to Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar in Jakarta.
“This assistance is not merely dates, but a symbol of the warm brotherhood between Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates. Our relationship is built on humanitarian values, solidarity and tolerance,” Nasaruddin said on Tuesday.
The 30-ton shipment arrived in Indonesia on Feb. 23, 2026, via Soekarno-Hatta Cargo Airport. Upon arrival, it was inspected by the ministry’s head of general affairs bureau, Aceng Abdul Aziz, to ensure completeness and readiness for distribution.
Nasaruddin expressed appreciation for what he described as the UAE government’s continued support for Indonesians, particularly Muslims observing the fasting month.
He said Ramadan serves as a moment to strengthen social solidarity, adding that the dates would be distributed to those in need, especially eligible beneficiaries, through the ministry’s network and partner organizations.
“Ramadan is a month of sharing. We hope this gift brings blessings and further strengthens the friendship between our two nations,” he said.
Ambassador Al Dhaheri said the donation reflected the UAE government’s sincere solidarity with the Indonesian people during Ramadan.
“The 30 tons of premium dates are provided free of charge through the Emirates International Aid Agency. This is an expression of goodwill, solidarity and brotherhood toward the people of the Republic of Indonesia during the blessed month of Ramadan,” he said.
He described Ramadan as a month of compassion, solidarity and generosity, values deeply rooted in both Emirati and Indonesian societies.
The initiative also reflects the UAE’s long-term humanitarian approach, which places charitable action at the center of its foreign policy under the direction of President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
He said the UAE views assistance to communities not only as a moral responsibility but also as a foundation for building international partnerships and human fraternity.
The ambassador highlighted the close ties between the two countries, grounded in mutual respect, shared values and strong people-to-people connections.
Cooperation between Indonesia and the UAE continues to expand across sectors, driven by the leadership of both nations and a shared vision of prosperity, tolerance and humanitarian service.
“This Ramadan gift reflects the depth of our brotherhood and our joint commitment to promoting tolerance, coexistence and generosity,” he said.
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Translator: Asep Firmansyah, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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