UAE. As reported in our ongoing coverage of #KickCancerThon, Dubai Duty Free has raised an impressive US$70,400 for Al Jalila Foundation, highlighting the retailer’s strong employee-led fundraising effort in support of cancer research and care.
The funds were raised through a company-wide charity marathon on 14 February and pledged via the Dubai Duty Free Foundation, with 100% of proceeds directed to Al Jalila Foundation’s cancer programme.
#KickCancerThon was conceived by the late Sinead Moodie, Chief Operating Officer of The Moodie Davitt Report. The ‘Think Global, Act Local’ initiative asks the travel retail and aviation communities to help raising funds and visibility for local cancer research or cancer treatment causes around the world.
In August 2025, Sinead was diagnosed with NUT carcinoma lung cancer, a rare and highly aggressive form of the disease. Sinead tragically passed away on 1 February 2026, the day the inaugural #KickCancerThon began.
The formal presentation of the cheque took place last week (25 February) at Dubai Duty Free’s head office in Umm Ramool. It was presented by Dubai Duty Free Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi to Al Jalila Foundation CEO Dr Amer Al Zarooni, in the presence of senior representatives from both organisations.
Attendees included Dubai Duty Free Deputy Managing Director Salah Tahlak; Senior Vice President Finance Dr Bernard Creed; Senior Vice President Marketing Sinead El Sibai and Manager Corporate Responsibility Olympia Pineda. Representing Al Jalila Foundation were Director of Partnerships Carla Duarte and Director of Fundraising Shamma Alrafi.
The donation followed a large-scale employee participation event on 14 February at Meydan Racecourse. A total of 704 Dubai Duty Free employees, joined by family members and friends, ran or walked all or part of the 42.195km marathon distance in support of #KickCancerThon.
For every participant, Dubai Duty Free pledged US$100, bringing the total contribution to US$70,400.
Dubai Duty Free Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi commented: “It was an absolute honour to formally hand over this donation to Al Jalila Foundation. The enthusiasm and solidarity shown by our team have been truly inspiring. Seeing 704 participants unite for such a meaningful cause reflects the caring spirit and strong sense of community that defines Dubai Duty Free.
“This initiative not only honours Sinead Moodie’s inspiring legacy but also reinforces our ongoing commitment to supporting vital healthcare initiatives in the UAE. We hope this contribution will help advance critical cancer research and treatment programmes and make a difference in our community.” ✈
Dubai Duty Free’s efforts adds to the growing global momentum of #KickCancerThon. Click here for the latest updates.
