FOCP launches initiative to ease cancer treatment costs

The Friends of Cancer Patients (FOCP) has launched its annual Zakat campaign to mobilise Zakat funds and charitable donations to provide financial and emotional support to cancer patients and help cover the cost of treatment, while strengthening the psychological and social care system for their families.

Held under the theme “Family of Giving,” the 2026 campaign delivers a humanitarian message affirming that communities and institutions form a second family for patients, in alignment with the UAE’s Year of the Family.

It underscores the values of generosity and solidarity that surround patients and empower families to continue their treatment journey with resilience and reassurance, while easing the financial strain of care.

Aisha Abdulla Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, said the annual campaign centres on maximising the impact of Zakat as direct, practical support for patients and their families, in line with the spirit of Ramadan and the UAE’s Year of the Family.

She said: “Giving during Ramadan delivers tangible support to patients and their families. We urge the community to direct their Zakat and charitable donations through FOCP to help cover treatment costs and ease the psychological and social pressures that accompany cancer. These contributions are critical to sustaining our programmes and ensuring patients and their families know they are not facing this journey alone.”

To widen participation and maximise impact, FOCP has provided multiple donation channels.

Zakat can be paid directly at www.focp.ae, https://www.focp.ae/zakat/. Patient cases can also be supported via YallaGive platform https://yallagive.com/en/focp.

Donations may also be made via bank transfer to FOCP’s account at Sharjah Islamic Bank, account number (0011-364854-002), with international transfers through IBAN: (AE440410000011364854002).

In addition, supporters may contribute via SMS through e& by sending the word “Zakat” to 6447 to donate Dhs20; 4426 to donate Dhs50; 4467 to donate Dhs200; or 2308 to donate Dhs500, ensuring ease and accessibility.

Beyond financial support, the campaign includes social initiatives to strengthen morale among patients and their families. These comprise the distribution of Meer Ramadan food boxes, Eid clothing for children with cancer, and communal iftars that foster inclusion and reduce the isolation associated with illness, reflecting the UAE’s values of solidarity and compassion.

Last year’s Ramadan Zakat campaign, held under the theme “Togetherness Conquers,” drew strong engagement from individuals, institutions and companies, helping to offset treatment costs and address patients’ psychological and social needs.

During Ramadan last March, FOCP organised a series of Iftars for patients, survivors, and caregivers.

An intimate Iftar for 50 families at TIME Grand Plaza Hotel thoughtfully aligned with International Women’s Day. The annual iftar at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre, attended by 200 patients and relatives; and a peaceful seaside Iftar for 100 guests was held at Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa. Across these evenings, 350+ patients and family members shared hope, comfort, and the reassurance that they are never alone.

FOCP also distributed 400 food boxes through the Al Meer Al Ramadany initiative in collaboration with the UAE Food Bank and Esaad Card Centre. In partnership with Landmark Group, the FOCP welcomed 30 children undergoing cancer treatment to Oasis Mall for a heartwarming Kiswat Al Eid experience.

The kids enjoyed the special moment of selecting their own Eid outfit at Max Fashion – bringing smiles, confidence, and festive excitement. The celebration continued with joyful playtime at Fun City.

FOCP teams additionally visited children receiving treatment at Mediclinic City Hospital, presenting gifts in cooperation with Sharjah Children.

During last year’s Zakat campaign, FOCP allocated Dhs7 million to support the treatment of 156 cancer patients.

The total included Dhs2,615,783 for medication and pharmaceutical supplies; Dhs1,200,383 for radiotherapy; Dhs1,458,458 for chemotherapy; Dhs1,030,000 for bone marrow transplantation; Dhs432,432 for surgical procedures, Dhs188,901 for laboratory tests and diagnostics; and Dhs105,144 for general expense, including doctor visits, eye glasses, and prosthetics. The total of last year’s Zakat and normal donations was about Dhs10 million.