No need to speed, here's an iftar meal on us: Abu Dhabi Police

On the first evening of Ramadan fasting, motorists who are still on the road may be given a surprise iftar, served up by a surprising host.

Abu Dhabi Police said yesterday it would hand out 30,000 meals to drivers at petrol stations or junctions.

The aim is to keep drivers from speeding to get home in time for the muezzin's call to maghrib prayer, bringing an end to the day's fasting.

Motorists driving in or out of the country through the Ghuweifat or Al Ain border crossings will also be given an iftar parcel, in an initiative being carried out in conjunction with a private local endowment and a major UAE dates company.

"This benevolent initiative aims to strengthen the values of solidarity and compassion among members of the community during Ramadan, which is in line with the grand spirit of empathy, spirituality and sublime meanings that characterise this holy month," said Maj Gen Mohammed Al Menhali, director general of operations at Abu Dhabi Police.