His Excellency Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director General of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in Dubai, visited the Al-Mizhar Islamic Cultural Center to review the ongoing activities and initiatives of the “Gheras Summer” program dedicated to young girls. The program, launched on July 7, 2024, is part of IACAD’s broader initiatives aimed at promoting Islamic and humanitarian values among girls aged 7 to 15, while also equipping them with essential life skills in leadership, sustainability, and innovation.
Commenting on the launch of the program, His Excellency stated:
“The “Gheras Summer” initiative is aligned with the objectives of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, under the theme ‘The Family is the Foundation of the Nation.’ Through this program, we seek to nurture a generation of girls who are socially and familially responsible, while strengthening their national identity and Islamic values.”
The program features a variety of educational and interactive activities including Qur’an recitation and Tajweed, memorization of supplications and remembrances, and lessons in essential Islamic jurisprudence such as purification and prayer. In addition, the program offers hands-on workshops in agriculture, Arabic calligraphy, gypsum art, mosaic, and sewing, while emphasizing the importance of Emirati identity and authentic cultural values.
“Gheras Summer” is implemented in two phases:
Phase one runs from July 7 to July 24, 2024 Phase two is scheduled from August 4 to August 21, 2025 Each phase is conducted daily from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at IACAD centers across various Dubai locations, including Al Warqa, Nad Al Sheba, Al Mizhar, and Hatta.
The program is delivered by IACAD teams in collaboration with various government and private sector partners.
During his visit, the Director General toured several student-led projects and attended a briefing by center officials outlining the structure and impact of the program’s activities. The visit also included discussions on enhancing the role of Islamic cultural centers in delivering such initiatives, as well as exploring future development plans to meet community needs in Dubai.
“Gheras Summer” forms part of IACAD’s ongoing community engagement efforts, aimed at enriching cultural and religious awareness among young girls during the summer break.