More than 250 expatriates from various nationalities have taken part in Fast-a-thon, a charity event organised by Hyatt Plaza in co-operation with Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah al-Thani’s Foundation for Humanitarian Services (RAF).

The event was held exclusively for non-Muslims, with Hyatt Plaza and RAF donating QR200 on behalf of each participant to Syrian refugees. An Iftar party was organised at the Hyatt Plaza food court yesterday as part of Fast-a-thon and the participants were invited to share the experience of fasting for a good cause.

“It was indeed a unique opportunity, both in terms of experiencing fasting and helping people in need. Waking up early, spending the entire day without food and doing everything for a noble cause - I feel happy to have received such an opportunity to help the refugees of Syria,” said Natasha, a British expatriate who participated in Fast-a-thon 2013.

Feroz Moideen, general manager of Hyatt Plaza, described the event as a great success with a very positive turnout of participants from different sections of society.

“We are humbled by the support we have received for this noble initiative.With RAF as our partners, we are confident that our efforts will make a positive difference to the lives of Syrian refugees,” said Moideen .

Adam Abu Zuhri, an Islamic and cultural presenter from Fanar, explained the mechanism of fasting to the participants during an orientation session held on Friday.

“This event encourages non-Muslims to experience Ramadan in Qatar and is also an effective way to help the needy without paying from one’s own pocket. The main purpose of Fast-a-thon is not just to help others, but also to sense for ourselves what it feels like when a child or mother is hungry and thirsty,” said Abu Zuhri.

Mohamed Salah Ibrahim, executive manager at RAF, thanked Hyatt Plaza for its efforts. “The event demonstrates that the private sector can play a very important role in helping the society and giving back to people in need,” he affirmed.

The charity event was organised by Hyatt Plaza for the fourth consecutive year, with Fast-a-thon 2010 supporting the flood victims of Pakistan, the 2011 edition helping the people of Somalia and Fast-a-thon 2012 supporting the underprivileged in the Republic of Niger.

Fast-a-thon 2013 concluded with participants receiving an appreciation certificate for extending support to the noble cause. Certificates were handed over to the participants by Moideen on behalf of Hyatt Plaza and Ibrahim from RAF.