Dubai has begun installing free hot meal-dispensing machines at various locations across the city, expanding its efforts to support low-income and needy residents.

According to a foreign news agency, the initiative is being overseen by the Dubai Awqaf Foundation and is part of the ongoing “Khobz Al-Sabeel” project, which was launched in 2022. The programme originally focused on providing free fresh bread through smart vending machines placed across the emirate.

The foundation said the newly deployed machines are designed to dispense full hot meals instead of bread. The upgraded units feature a modern layout, including a digital display screen to guide users. A built-in cooling system ensures that the food remains fresh and safe to consume throughout the day.

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A smart identification system has also been introduced, allowing each registered individual to receive one meal per day. Officials said this mechanism helps make the distribution fair and ensures that a larger number of people can benefit from the service.

Ali Al Mutawa, Secretary General of Awqaf Dubai, said the machines have initially been placed near several mosques and will be installed in additional areas as demand grows. He added that the goal is to modernise the waqf system and deliver assistance in a dignified and convenient way, without requiring people to queue or rely on manual distribution.

He emphasised that the initiative reflects Dubai’s commitment to strengthening community support and ensuring that charitable resources are distributed efficiently to those who need them most.