Latest news with #MohammedBinRashidAlMaktoumGlobalInitiatives
Gulf Today
13-06-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Today
Dubai donates Dhs5.5 million to fight malnutrition in three African countries
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), through its 1 Billion Meals campaign, announced it has completed several key projects combating malnutrition in Niger, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Senegal. This work, conducted in partnership with the UN's UNITLIFE Trust Fund, stems from a 2022 strategic agreement to support underprivileged communities globally by improving access to nutrition and promoting a dignified life. Through the 1 Billion Meals campaign, MBRGI contributed Dhs5.5 million to UNITLIFE programmes in Niger, DRC, and Senegal. This funding supported long-term food security strategies. The MBRGI-UNITLIFE partnership prioritises sustainable approaches to combating malnutrition, including climate-smart agriculture, locally tailored solutions for market system development, and community empowerment through nutrition-focused initiatives. Such approaches help address the root causes of malnutrition while providing sustained support to hunger-stricken regions. MBRGI's support enabled UNITLIFE to implement projects in Niger, DRC, and Senegal, focusing on increased local food production, women's empowerment and economic engagement. These programmes foster the development of a more inclusive and resilient food system. Prof. Philippe Douste-Blazy, former French Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Steering Committee of UNITLIFE, underscored the importance of sustainable, long-term solutions in addressing malnutrition. 'Our strategic partnership with MBRGI is crucial in expanding these solutions, empowering vulnerable communities not only to confront food security challenges but also to build resilience and effectively manage their nutritional needs.' Philippe Douste-Blazy expressed gratitude for MBRGI's support through the 1 Billion Meals campaign, which has been instrumental in enabling UNITLIFE to reach a broader population in Niger, DRC and Senegal, ultimately empowering them to improve their lives. The strategic partnership between Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) and UNITLIFE has successfully completed a series of impactful projects to combat malnutrition and strengthen food resilience across several African countries. While the projects have concluded, they continue to enable communities to sustainably access nutritious meals year after year. In Niger, a 12-month project with Goal Global focused on promoting bio-fortified and climate-resilient agriculture. The initiative reached 168,826 beneficiaries and continues to enable access to over 1.4 million nutritious meals annually by supporting sustainable farming practices. In DRC, a 17-month initiative in partnership with UN Women established a biofortified cassava food chain. Designed to empower women and enhance community nutrition, the project benefited 128,558 individuals and continues to facilitate access to approximately 1.1 million nutritious meals annually. In Senegal, a two-year project with Action Against Hunger focused on promoting integrated food resilience. The initiative reached 33,223 beneficiaries and has strengthened local systems to enable access to an estimated 3.9 million nutritious meals annually. In 2022, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the 1 Billion Meals campaign, which provided food aid to those in need across 50 countries, achieving its targets before the end of Ramadan of that year. MBRGI implements charitable and humanitarian programs across five key areas: Humanitarian Aid & Relief, Healthcare & Disease Control, Spreading Education & Knowledge, Innovation & Entrepreneurship and Empowering Communities. In 2024, MBRGI's spending across these key pillars amounted to over Dhs2.2 billion, impacting nearly 149 million beneficiaries in 118 countries. Launched in 2019, UNITLIFE, a UN trust fund, combats chronic malnutrition globally through a multi-disciplinary approach. The fund explores innovative funding opportunities to address gaps in global health and food systems, including investing in scalable, sustainable agricultural projects and programs empowering women to address malnutrition within their communities. In January, MBRGI pledged Dhs36.7 million in support of sustainable projects and programmes organised by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency to aid forcibly displaced communities. This brings the total contributions by MBRGI to Dhs163.6 million since 2021. The pledge was formalised in a cooperation agreement signed by MBRGI and UNHCR during the World Economic Forum 2025 in Davos, Switzerland. The agreement reflects MBRGI's commitment to strategic humanitarian support, empowering refugee and displaced communities through sustainable projects and programmes designed to improve their living conditions. WAM
Al Etihad
10-06-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Mohammed bin Rashid honours winners of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award
10 June 2025 13:39 DUBAI (ALETIHAD)His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, honoured the winners of the fourth edition of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award. The ceremony, held at Emirates Towers in Dubai, was attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai. Overseen by the UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia UAE), the Award is organised under the umbrella of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives. In its fourth edition, 12 winners from eight countries were recognised, with total prize money of $1 million. The Award features four main categories: Innovative Projects, Innovative Research and Development, Innovative Individual, and Innovative Crisis Solutions. On this occasion, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said that the UAE remains committed to expanding its humanitarian impact and leveraging innovation to improve the quality of life for millions of people worldwide. His Highness said: 'Humanity today faces numerous challenges, and the scarcity of clean water is among the most pressing. We are committed to driving innovation to deliver sustainable solutions that advance the UAE's vision of harnessing technology to serve humanity and extend support to communities suffering from water scarcity.'His Highness added: 'We take pride in the contributions of our institutions in this vital field, and we will continue to support every project, idea or innovation that makes a real difference in people's lives. Our message is humanitarian, our tools are knowledge and innovation, and our goal is to ensure the UAE's support reaches those who need it most, wherever they are.'In his speech during the honouring ceremony, Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Suqia UAE, expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for honouring the winners of the fourth edition of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award and for His Highness's continued support for humanitarian and development Tayer affirmed that the Award reflects His Highness's vision of fostering practical, forward-thinking solutions that address critical global needs. He noted that it also highlights the UAE's and Dubai's unwavering commitment to contributing to global efforts to combat water scarcity, one of the most pressing challenges facing communities to United Nations reports, 2.2 billion people worldwide lack access to safe drinking water, Al Tayer noted. UNICEF also highlights that more than 1,000 children under the age of five die each day from diseases linked to inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene. Many communities around the world continue to face severe shortages of clean water.'As Suqia UAE marks its 10th anniversary, it has successfully implemented over 1,000 sustainable water projects in collaboration with Emirates Red Crescent and other partners, positively impacting the lives of around 15 million people across 37 countries. These efforts have demonstrated that innovative solutions are key to addressing the global water crisis. "The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award—named after an inspirational leader and beacon of hope—serves as a global platform that reinforces the UAE's pioneering role in humanitarian work, grounded in the noble values instilled by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan." "This legacy continues under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who said that 'The UAE remains dedicated to supporting hope and inspiring initiatives, serving as a champion of optimism in the Arab world,'' said Al Tayer added: 'Guided by the vision and directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award has become a focal point for companies, research centres, institutions, and innovators around the world, given its significant humanitarian and developmental impact. The Award encourages individuals and research institutions to develop innovative, sustainable solutions for the production, desalination, and purification of water using clean energy its first three editions, the Award recognised a total of 31 winners from 22 countries. The fourth edition attracted applications from 46 countries. Today, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum honoured 12 winners from eight countries for presenting pioneering innovations that help address the challenge of water scarcity and provide safe drinking water to the most vulnerable communities,' concluded Al Tayer. Fourth Edition Winners Innovative Projects Award – Large Projects:Green Waste Solutions Trading DMCC from the United Arab Emirates secured first place for its LANDCO Tech project, which converts organic waste and wastewater into renewable energy, clean drinking water, and bio-fertilisers. The system employs COMBO containers and LANDCO modules powered by solar energy and biogas, integrating AI and blockchain technologies. It has a treatment capacity of 100m³ per day. Second place was awarded to the Sustainability Investment Promotion and Development Joint Stock Company (SIPCO) from Vietnam for its initiative to provide safe drinking water to vulnerable schools and communities. The project uses ceramic-impregnated nano-silver pot filters (CSPF) to effectively remove bacteria, viruses, and sediments, benefiting millions globally in a cost-efficient place went to Sotrad Water Srl from Belgium for its Pump&Drink® - Hydro1000 solution, a solar-powered system that pumps, treats, stores, and distributes drinking water sustainably. The system is already operational and serves over 200,000 people. Innovative Projects Award – Small Projects: Kumulus SAS from France took first place for its 'Kumulus Water – Drinking Water From Air' project. The solar-powered device uses a patented hybrid system to produce around 30 litres of drinking water per day and can be scaled to meet local demand, particularly in schools and rural Fenghai New Energy Seawater Desalination Development Co Ltd, in partnership with Hangzhou Sunup Environmental Technology Co Ltd from China, received second place for their Intelligent Microgrid Seawater Treatment project. Using reverse osmosis and powered by solar or wind energy, the system produces up to 100 tonnes of water daily and supports the residents of ZS Island in place was awarded to FountAir LTD from Hong Kong for its AIR4WATER project—described as 'The Invisible Solution'. This split VAC-WG system, powered by renewable energy, can provide up to 150 litres of water daily and is being implemented in several countries. Innovative Research and Development Award – International Institutions: First place went to STEM SAS from France for its AQUAHIVE system, an energy-efficient and high-performance membrane distillation technology that uses solar, geothermal, or waste heat energy. The AI-optimised, patented heat exchange process significantly reduces carbon footprint and has a treatment capacity of 0.3m³ per Energy and Water Company (ENOWA) – NEOM from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia received second place for its innovative project that enables the extraction of valuable minerals—such as salt, lithium, and bromine—while recovering desalinated water from seawater or brackish brine. The solar-powered pilot facility, located at the Duba Desalination Plant, operates at 1,200m³ per day and reduces energy consumption compared to traditional methods. Innovative Research and Development Award – National Institutions: Khalifa University from the United Arab Emirates earned first place for its Biomimetic Freshwater Generator for Solar Desalination without Brine Discharge. The system replicates the natural evaporation process of mangrove trees to generate freshwater from seawater while collecting salt as a byproduct, eliminating brine discharge. Using 10 units, the system can produce over five litres of water per day. Innovative Crisis Solutions Award: First place was awarded to SkyJuice Foundation Inc. from Australia for its SkyHydrant Emergency Safe Water Solution. This lightweight, portable ultrafiltration system produces more than 5,000 litres of potable water daily and has been deployed in 74 countries to support communities facing crises and natural disasters. Innovative Individual Award – Distinguished Research Award: Professor Guihua Yu from the United States received first place for his breakthrough technologies in solar-powered water purification and atmospheric water harvesting. His contributions include solar desalination using energy hydrogels, a solar-powered atmospheric water harvester, and biodegradable nanocellulose-based hydrogel filters. He holds more than 20 patents and leads a research centre at the University of Texas focused on sustainability and water innovation. Innovative Individual Award – Youth Award: Zhenyuan Xu from China was awarded first place for his Passive Solar Distillation system, which delivers ultra-high efficiency and extreme salt resistance. The system can produce more than 1.5 gallons of fresh water per hour per square metre of solar collection area. Affordable and field-tested, it supports sustainable development goals through education and community engagement.
Hi Dubai
19-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
MBRGI Reports AED2.2 Billion in Humanitarian Aid, Impacting 149 Million People Worldwide
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, unveiled the 2024 Year in Review report for the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), highlighting an AED2.2 billion expenditure on humanitarian and development projects. The initiatives positively impacted 149 million people across 118 countries, reaffirming the UAE's global leadership in philanthropy. The announcement took place at a special ceremony at the Dubai World Trade Centre, attended by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Vice Chairman of MBRGI's Board of Trustees, alongside key dignitaries and officials. The event showcased MBRGI's 2024 milestones, including the progress of the Fathers' Endowment campaign and recognition of major contributors. During the ceremony, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed chaired the MBRGI Board of Trustees meeting, emphasizing the UAE's commitment to humanitarian efforts. 'As we commemorate Humanitarian Work Day, we reaffirm our mission to extend generosity to all nations. Our work continues with a steadfast commitment to saving lives, providing education, empowering communities, and eradicating poverty,' he stated. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed underscored MBRGI's evolution since its 2015 inception, highlighting its transition from charitable aid to long-term empowerment strategies. 'In 2024, MBRGI's AED2.2 billion investment supported high-impact projects, such as the Mother's Endowment Campaign, a one-billion-dirham initiative to fund global education, and the 1 Billion Meals Endowment, which launched the UAE's tallest endowment tower valued at AED800 million to combat hunger,' he noted. He also cited the foundation stone laying of the Hamdan bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai's largest facility for free cancer treatment. Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and MBRGI's Secretary-General, highlighted the foundation's increasing impact, with a funding increase of AED400 million from 2023. 'MBRGI remains a model for sustainable philanthropy, focusing on long-term solutions that enhance education, healthcare, and social development worldwide,' he said. During the event, Sheikh Mohammed conferred the 'Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Order for Philanthropy' on Mirwais Azizi, Founder and Chairman of Azizi Developments, for his historic AED3 billion contribution to the Fathers' Endowment campaign. Several other contributors received the 'Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Medal for Philanthropy' in recognition of their support for global humanitarian initiatives. The 2024 Year in Review underscores MBRGI's unwavering commitment to fostering hope and driving sustainable change. As the UAE continues to lead in humanitarian efforts, its vision of global philanthropy remains an enduring legacy, lighting the way for a better future for millions worldwide. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Gulf Today
18-03-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
UAE's Dhs2.2b charity projects benefitted 149m people in 118 countries, says Sheikh Mohammed
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the results of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) Year In Review report for 2024. During the past year, MBRGI, the largest humanitarian and aid organisation of its kind in the region, spent a total of Dhs2.2 billion on projects that positively impacted the lives of 149 million people in 118 countries around the world. The announcement of MBRGI's Year in Review took place during a special ceremony held on Tuesday at the Dubai World Trade Centre, attended by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives; Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council; Sheikha Latifa Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, along with a number of ministers and officials. The ceremony showcased MBRGI's accomplishments in 2024 and previous years, presented updates on the progress of this year's Fathers' Endowment campaign and honoured its partners and major contributors. The ceremony was preceded by a meeting of MBRGI's Board of Trustees at the DWTC, chaired by Sheikh Mohammed. Deep commitment Sheikh Mohammed said: 'Today, I chaired a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, where we reviewed last year's results. MBRGI spent a total of Dhs2.2 billion on various relief, health, education, and community development programmes, benefiting 149 million people in 118 countries. I met with the humanitarian team of 975 employees, supported by over 170,000 volunteers. Our humanitarian work continues, and the UAE remains committed to extending support globally. We are grateful for this opportunity and pray for continued blessings as we assist nations worldwide.' Sheikh Mohammed added: 'We conclude a year of hope-making and anticipate another, even more impactful year, creating a lasting legacy of positive change. Whether it is saving lives, providing education, empowering women, fostering innovation, or alleviating poverty, these actions embody our values and principles. This is our enduring legacy.' Sheikh Mohammed concluded: 'We will persevere tirelessly in our service to humanity. Our flame of hope will remain lit.' More than a charity organisation Sheikh Hamdan affirmed that since its establishment in 2015, the MBRGI has evolved into more than just a charitable organisation. It had moved beyond immediate humanitarian action, relief, and charity work to encompass the comprehensive and fundamental rebuilding, rehabilitation, and empowerment of individuals and communities. This is driven by a vision focused on improving overall quality of life, supporting sustainable development, finding innovative and long-term solutions to humanity's challenges, and eradicating the root causes of issues hindering development, such as poverty and disease. Sheikh Hamdan said: 'The year 2024 marked significant milestones in MBRGI's journey, with over Dhs2.2 billion spent on various high-quality projects and initiatives, both new and ongoing. This investment has enhanced tangible results on the ground and broadened its reach. Among the most prominent milestones was Sheikh Mohammed's launch of the 'Mother's Endowment Campaign' to honour mothers in the UAE. This campaign established a one-billion-dirham endowment fund to support the education of millions worldwide, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to navigate life successfully.' '2024 also witnessed the launch of the tallest endowment tower in the UAE, valued at Dhs800 million, as part of the 1 Billion Meals Endowment' campaign, the largest of its kind to combat global hunger. The tower aims to contribute to a sustainable food security system for millions. Furthermore, the foundation stone was laid for the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, the largest and first of its kind in Dubai, providing free cancer treatment. This hospital will be a valuable addition to the medical landscape in Dubai and the UAE,' he further said. 'These projects, among others, represent just a fraction of the initiatives under MBRGI. Through more than 30 institutions and initiatives, hundreds of programmes, projects, and campaigns are implemented. Our work continues, and our goal is clear. As Sheikh Mohammed said, 'We will continue to extend a helping hand to less fortunate people, combat poverty, hunger, and ignorance everywhere in our region and the world, and instill hope for a better tomorrow in our Arab societies,' Sheikh Hamdan added. Sustainable approach Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of CaBinet Affairs and Secretary-General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, said: 'Guided by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision, MBRGI has established an inspiring model and a sustainable approach to philanthropy. It focuses on making a long-term and lasting difference in the lives of tens of millions of less fortunate individuals by empowering and developing them through impactful programmes in education, health, community empowerment, and youth support, while building international partnerships to enhance humanitarian and development efforts. Al Gergawi added: 'In 2024, MBRGI reached approximately 149 million people in 118 countries through projects and programmes valued at over AED2.2 billion, representing an AED400 million increase from 2023. This demonstrates the scale of the foundation's work and the growth of its impact. More importantly, these resources were channelled into innovative, high-quality programmes and projects that contribute to creating a better future for communities in need and enhancing human potential and quality of life.' Al Gergawi stated: 'MBRGI will continue its mission of instilling hope through sustainable and growing projects and programmes. This contributes to strengthening the UAE's leading global position as a humanitarian capital and establishes an important benchmark for innovative humanitarian and charitable work. It serves as an inspiring beacon, demonstrating the power of solidarity, cooperation and giving to make a real difference in people's lives and their future.' During the ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed bestowed the 'Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Order for Philanthropy' to Mirwais Azizi, Founder and Chairman of Azizi Developments, whose contribution of Dhs3 billion marked the first contribution in support of the Fathers' Endowment campaign, and the largest individual private sector donation in UAE history. Sheikh Mohammed also honoured a number of major contributors to the Fathers' Endowment campaign and awarded them the 'Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Medal for Philanthropy.' Honourees included Saeed Mohammed Ahmad Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA); Abdullah Al Basti, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment (MBRHC); Mohammed Juma Al Naboodah; Masih Imtiaz, CEO of Imtiaz Developments; Imran Farooq, CEO of SAMANA Developers; Ahsan Rasheed, CEO of Peace Homes; Yussuffali MA, Chairman of Lulu Group; Siddharth Balachandran, Executive Chairman and CEO of Buimerc Corporation Ltd.; Abdullah Matar Al Mannai, Chairman and Managing Director of Emirates Auction; Omar Al Mannai, Executive Director of Emirates Auction; Dr. Abdulla AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the Integrated Transport Centre; Brigadier Mohammed Al Braik Al Ameri, Executive Director of the Drivers and Vehicles Licensing Sector; Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of Licensing Agency at Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Naresh Bhawnani, Chairman of the West Zone Group. Sheikh Hamdan also honoured the campaign's partners and major contributors, who supported its aims to honour fathers by allowing individuals to donate in their names to provide sustainable healthcare in underserved communities. Honorees included Yahya Saeed Lootah, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation; Khaled Abdul Rahim Al Zarooni; Mohammad Saeed Al Shamsi from the family of the late Obaid Al Heloo; Huda Al Rostamani, Board Member of AW Rostamani Group; Mohammed Abdullatif Ibrahim Galadari, Co-Chairman and Group CEO of Galadari Brothers; Ibrahim Abdullah Alhabib, Chairman of DURAR Group; Dr Mahdi Al Fardan, Vice Chairman of Alfardan Group; Abdullah Ali Bin Zayed Al Falasi, CEO and Managing Director of Dar Al Ber Society; Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman of Landmark Group; Nisha Jagtiani, Group Director at Landmark Group; Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings; Mohammed Sharaf Al Dine Sharaf, Board Member of Sharaf Group; Jawaan Awaidha Suhail Awaidha Al Khaili, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB); Muhammad BinGhatti, Chairman of Binghatti Holding; Egor Molchanov, CEO of QUBE Developments; Ubaid Memoni, Vice Chairman of Al Waseef Group; Abdulla Al Ahmed, Chief Government and VVIP Relations Officer at e& UAE; and His Excellency Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du. MBRGI's 2024 Year in Review showcases the humanitarian, developmental, and social achievements of its various initiatives, programmes, and institutions. These efforts alleviated suffering among vulnerable populations and fostered sustainable, comprehensive change, aligned with MBRGI's mission to create hope and build a safer, more stable future. Volunteers In 2024, MBRGI's initiatives engaged 171,892 volunteers, a significant increase from 160,547 in 2023. These volunteers, alongside 975 staff members, provided crucial support for numerous humanitarian, relief, health, educational, cultural, and community-focused projects and programmes. MBRGI also awarded over Dhs38.5 million (compared to AED25.1 million in 2023) to incentivise and recognise achievements in humanitarian and developmental work. The foundation encompasses over 30 institutions and initiatives, implementing hundreds of projects across five key areas: Humanitarian Aid & Relief, Healthcare & Disease Control, Spreading Education & Knowledge, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and Empowering Communities. Humanitarian aid and relief Humanitarian Aid and Relief is a core pillar of MBRGI, reflecting its commitment to alleviating suffering worldwide. In 2024, MBRGI spent over Dhs944 million on humanitarian aid and relief, impacting over 37 million people globally. Key projects included the launch of the '1B Tower', an AED800 million endowment tower supporting the 1 Billion Meals Endowment, and Dubai Humanitarian's (formerly International Humanitarian City) 20th anniversary and rebranding, facilitating the distribution of 1,255 metric tonnes of aid to 3.7 million beneficiaries. At the 2024 World Economic Forum in Davos, MBRGI announced partnerships with UN agencies to enhance food security. This included AED30 million for UNICEF to support children and women and AED43 million for the World Food Programme (WFP) to provide direct food aid to Gaza, impacting one million people. Following His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid's directive, MBRGI, in partnership with WFP, also provided urgent food aid to 250,000 people in Lebanon as part of the 'UAE Stands with Lebanon' campaign. Healthcare and disease control Healthcare & Disease Control is another core pillar of MBRGI, focusing on treatment, prevention, and health awareness programmes. In 2024, MBRGI invested over Dhs210 million in healthcare, impacting 6.5 million people globally. Key initiatives included an Dhs37 million commitment to support Gaza's health sector, providing essential medical supplies, particularly for children, through a partnership with the World Health Organization. MBRGI also contributed an additional Dhs220 million (bringing the total to Dhs320 million) to the Magdi Yacoub Heart Foundation for the construction and equipping of the Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Centre in Cairo. In recognition of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum's support for humanitarian and medical initiatives, the new medical complex at the centre will bear his name. In 2024, the foundation stone was laid for the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai's first comprehensive cancer hospital. The Dubai Health Authority announced the hospital's planned opening in 2026, supported by donations received by the Al Jalila Foundation. Spreading education and knowledge MBRGI prioritises the spreading of education and knowledge as fundamental to thriving societies. In 2024, MBRGI invested over Dhs599 million in education, impacting over 100 million people globally. A key 2024 initiative was the launch of the 'Mothers' Endowment' campaign by Sheikh Mohammed, establishing a Dhs1 billion fund to support education for millions worldwide. The 8th Arab Reading Challenge concluded in 2024 with over 28 million student participants from 229,000 schools across 50 countries, supervised by more than 154,000 individuals. Dubai Cares, operating under the MBRGI umbrella, saw significant expansion in 2024, impacting over 116 million beneficiaries in 60 developing countries since its inception in 2007. Dubai Cares also implemented 260 programmes, 48 support initiatives, and 40 research projects in collaboration with 143 partners, and fulfilling financial commitments totalling Dhs1 billion. Innovation and entrepreneurship MBRGI focuses on establishing Dubai and the UAE as a global hub for innovation and technology. In 2024, MBRGI spent approximately Dhs278 million on future innovation and entrepreneurship, impacting over 1.3 million people. Under this pillar, the Museum of the Future surpassed 3 million visitors from 177 countries since its opening. Further, the Global Food Innovation Summit was organised in partnership with the World Economic Forum, focusing on innovative food systems and attracting global investment in agriculture and food technologies. Over 6,229 UAE startups benefited from over AED280 million in incentives and support from the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for SME Development. Empowering communities MBRGI's community empowerment efforts saw an investment of Dhs202 million in 2024, impacting over 3.5 million people. A key highlight was the 4th edition of the Arab Hope Makers initiative, with its closing ceremony attended by 12,000 people. During the ceremony, four individuals were awarded AED1 million each for their positive contributions to society. In other achievements under this pillar, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development (MBRCLD) celebrated its 20th anniversary, with over 850 Emirati leaders across various sectors graduating from its programmes.
Hi Dubai
17-03-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Developers Pledge AED 110 Million for Endowment Buildings at MBRGI's Education Complex
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, attended the signing of agreements between the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) and leading developers to support the Fathers' Endowment campaign. Imtiaz Developments, SAMANA Developers, and Buimerc Corporation Ltd. have committed to constructing endowment buildings within MBRGI's education complex at Dubai Academic City. The agreements, signed by Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Secretary General of MBRGI, mark a collective investment of AED 110 million, with Imtiaz contributing AED 50 million, SAMANA AED 40 million, and Buimerc AED 20 million. Launched during Ramadan, the Fathers' Endowment campaign honours fathers in the UAE and aims to create a sustainable healthcare endowment fund for underprivileged individuals. Revenue generated from the endowment buildings will fund the development of hospitals, procurement of medical equipment, and expansion of healthcare facilities. Al Gergawi emphasized the UAE's deep-rooted culture of philanthropy, noting that Ramadan campaigns consistently exceed their targets, reflecting the nation's commitment to humanitarian efforts. He highlighted the initiative's alignment with Sheikh Mohammed's vision of sustainable giving and social solidarity. The campaign welcomes donations through various channels, including the website call centre 800 4999, bank transfers to Emirates Islamic Bank, SMS donations via Etisalat and du, the DubaiNow app, and This initiative reinforces the UAE's leadership in philanthropy, strengthening its commitment to global humanitarian solidarity through sustainable and impactful giving. News Source: Emirates News Agency
