A major philanthropic initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable children across the United Arab Emirates has received a significant financial boost, with Dh250 million pledged to the Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans. The initiative reflects the UAE’s broader commitment to social responsibility and sustainable humanitarian support.
The campaign, launched earlier this week, is designed to create a long-term funding system that ensures orphaned children in the UAE receive continuous access to education, healthcare, and social empowerment opportunities. According to the announcement shared by Erth Zayed Philanthropies, the organization has pledged Dh100 million to the initiative, making it one of the largest early contributions to the program.
The Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans initiative operates under the supervision of the Endowments and Minors’ Funds Authority (Awqaf Abu Dhabi), which manages charitable endowment projects designed to generate sustainable funding for social welfare programs across the country.
Government and Philanthropic Leaders Support the Initiative
The philanthropic campaign has attracted support from several prominent institutions and business leaders. The Emirates Red Crescent, the UAE government’s humanitarian organization, announced an additional Dh50 million donation to support the project.
The initiative also received Dh100 million from entrepreneur Sunny Varkey, chairman and founder of the Varkey Foundation and the GEMS Education group, one of the world’s largest private education providers.
Together, these contributions have brought the total pledged amount to Dh250 million, reinforcing the UAE’s long-standing commitment to philanthropy and community welfare.
The major donation from Erth Zayed Philanthropies was approved by Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and chairman of the organization’s board of trustees.
The initiative was also launched under the directives of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
A Long-Term Model for Sustainable Giving
Officials behind the campaign emphasized that the Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans represents more than a traditional charitable initiative. Instead, it introduces a sustainable endowment model designed to generate long-term financial resources that continuously support orphan care programs.
In a statement, Sheikh Theyab explained that the initiative embodies the humanitarian values promoted by Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, widely known as the “Mother of the Nation.”
He noted that the campaign reflects the UAE’s ongoing effort to strengthen a culture of giving while ensuring that vulnerable children receive the support needed to thrive.
Through the endowment structure, funds will be invested and managed by Awqaf Abu Dhabi, allowing returns on investment to finance programs focused on education, healthcare, and social development for orphaned children.
Humanitarian Values at the Core of UAE Society
Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and chairman of the Emirates Red Crescent, emphasized that generosity and humanitarian work remain deeply rooted in Emirati culture.
He said the decision to support the Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans reflects the country’s belief that caring for orphaned children is both a national responsibility and a humanitarian mission.
According to Sheikh Hamdan, the UAE’s culture of giving draws inspiration from the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the nation, whose humanitarian philosophy continues to guide charitable initiatives across the country.
Strengthening Support for Children in the UAE
The new endowment initiative is part of a broader national effort to improve support systems for orphaned children and those of unknown parentage.
In late 2024, the UAE government introduced new regulations governing foster care through a federal decree law. The legislation clarified custody conditions for families seeking to care for children without parental guardianship.
Under the updated framework, families living in the UAE may apply for custody if both spouses jointly submit the request and meet age and financial stability requirements. The law also allows single women over the age of 30 to apply for custody if they are capable of financially supporting the child.
Authorities say the updated legal framework ensures that children are placed in safe and supportive environments while maintaining strict standards for healthcare, education, and overall well-being.
Building Opportunities for Future Generations
The Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans reflects the UAE’s long-term strategy to build inclusive social systems that support vulnerable members of society.
By combining government leadership, philanthropic funding, and sustainable financial models, the initiative aims to ensure that orphaned children receive the resources necessary to succeed in education, maintain good health, and build meaningful futures.
As contributions continue to grow, officials hope the endowment will become one of the region’s most impactful social welfare initiatives, helping thousands of children across the UAE gain access to life-changing opportunities.
Aisha Al Mansoori is a UAE-based business and technology analyst covering startups, venture capital, AI, fintech, and innovation trends shaping the Emirates’ economy.
