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DDF launches charity foundation

DUBAI — Dubai Duty Free has officially launched the Dubai Duty Free Foundation, a charitable foundation established to help the needy, which will operate under the auspices of Shaikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Department of Civil Aviation, Dubai.

Commenting on the objectives of the Dubai Duty Free Foundation, Shaikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said: "The Foundation aims to raise funds for needy causes around the world, with a particular emphasis on causes that directly benefit children. This is the first large-scale initiative of its kind in the duty free industry and we think that it will positively impact the lives of many people."

Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, has been the driving force behind the setting up of the Foundation and is the chairman of the board.

"The idea behind the Foundation really grew from our 20th Anniversary Charity Drive which raised $1.9 million for a number of charities. While this was a very successful one-day event to mark the operation's 20th anniversary, we felt that by setting up the Dubai Duty Free Foundation we would be able to do greater long-term good. I think that the Foundation will grow into something very meaningful," he said.

In addition to start-up funds donated by Dubai Duty Free, collection boxes for the Foundation will be set up throughout the duty free operation at Dubai International Airport.

"This is the first phase and will encourage our customers to donate while they are in the duty free area. In the longer-term, we will be looking at other fund raising events which will tie in with our many local and international promotional activities," said McLoughlin.