logo
MBRGI Reports AED2.2 Billion in Humanitarian Aid, Impacting 149 Million People Worldwide

MBRGI Reports AED2.2 Billion in Humanitarian Aid, Impacting 149 Million People Worldwide

Hi Dubai19-03-2025
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
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Dhs650m development project for Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Dhs650m development project for Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Gulf Today

time11 hours ago

  • Gulf Today

Dhs650m development project for Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

In line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to develop Dubai's natural reserves in alignment with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, Dubai Municipality has announced the awarding of the contract for the first phase of the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project at a cost of approximately Dhs100 million, with the overall cost across two phases of the project estimated at Dhs650 million. The project aims to enhance biodiversity, preserve the sustainability of natural habitats and reinforce the sanctuary's position as a premier sustainable eco-tourism destination offering a unique and integrated experience that further enriches quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The development aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, especially its objective of placing Dubai among the world's top three destinations for tourism, with the city's exceptional quality of life and new investment opportunities that promise to boost the sanctuary's direct economic returns offering added impetus for the initiative. The sanctuary has been planned and designed based on the needs of both residents and tourists, aiming to deliver the best recreational and tourism experience that promotes a sense of connect with the environment while preserving the sanctuary's natural elements. The project, which is to be executed in two main phases, will bring about a qualitative shift in environmental sustainability in the emirate. Phase one will cover approximately 6.4 square kilometres of the sanctuary and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Dubai Municipality seeks to rehabilitate and improve mangrove habitats by planting new mangroves and increasing mangrove coverage by 60%, from 40 to 65 hectares. This will include the provision of new irrigation channels, rehabilitation of mangrove forests and creating new habitats such as the mangrove lake, North Edge Lake and reed ponds. A Green Spine will also be developed, and post-rehabilitation monitoring will be conducted regularly. Phase one also envisions a 144% increase in water bodies within the reserve, expanding their total area to 74 hectares, helping achieve major environmental benefits such as a 60% increase in carbon dioxide absorption. Additionally, 10 hectares of mudflats (salt flats) will be added, contributing to the sanctuary's ecosystem and biodiversity. Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said: 'The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Development Project is one of the most prominent environmental infrastructure initiatives being undertaken by Dubai Municipality. It enhances the appeal of Dubai's nature reserves as unique and diverse destinations, supporting the goals of the eco-tourism sector and reinforcing Dubai's position as the best city in the world to live, work and visit, and a global model for sustainable future cities.' He added: 'With its unique design, the project marks a major milestone in the development and preservation of natural reserves. It reflects Dubai Municipality's commitment to protecting biodiversity and natural habitats through innovative practices that support sustainable growth and ecological balance. This project is part of our broader effort to make Dubai a leading global, attractive, sustainable and high-quality city through the initiatives and services we offer to the community.' Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, said: 'The project, which Dubai Municipality is implementing in two main phases, will lead to significant environmental advancements that enhance sustainability and preserve natural habitats across the emirate. It also aims to achieve a range of social goals, most notably raising environmental awareness among the community about biodiversity issues, supporting the strategic objectives of Dubai and the UAE for eco-tourism, and creating investment opportunities and environmentally themed tourist destinations. Upon completion, the project is expected to multiply the number of visitors to the sanctuary six-fold, reaching between 250,000 and 300,000 annually.' This will support the hosting of various events and activities within a total area of 20,000 square metres, taking into account the specific requirements of the ecosystem.

Joby Air Taxi completes test flight in Dubai ahead of 2026 launch
Joby Air Taxi completes test flight in Dubai ahead of 2026 launch

Filipino Times

time21 hours ago

  • Filipino Times

Joby Air Taxi completes test flight in Dubai ahead of 2026 launch

A prototype electric air taxi developed by U.S. company Joby Aviation successfully completed a test flight in Dubai on Monday, as the city moves closer to launching commercial flying taxi services by 2026. The test flight was conducted in collaboration with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, praised the achievement, calling it a reflection of the UAE's forward-thinking approach to innovation. 'This pioneering initiative is part of the UAE's broader vision to lead the world in innovation and the development of advanced technologies,' Sheikh Hamdan wrote on the social media platform X. Dubai has successfully completed the region's first test flight of the Joby Aerial Taxi. Conducted through a collaboration between the Roads and Transport Authority and Joby Aviation, the test flight marks a major step toward launching full operations next year. The all-electric… — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) June 30, 2025 The five-seat aircraft, which accommodates a pilot and four passengers, is capable of reaching speeds of up to 320 kilometers per hour. It is expected to significantly reduce travel times within the city, for instance, cutting the journey from Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah from 45 minutes to just 12 minutes. Under a six-year exclusive agreement, Dubai has granted Joby the right to operate air taxi services in the emirate. Four initial vertiport locations have been identified: Dubai International Airport, Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Marina.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary to undergo Dhs650 million development
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary to undergo Dhs650 million development

What's On

timea day ago

  • What's On

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary to undergo Dhs650 million development

Dubai Municipality has awarded a Dhs650 million contract for the development of the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary in line with the Dubai Economic Agenda and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. This upgrade is intended to position Dubai as a top global destination for the eco-tourism and among the world's top 3 tourism destinations, it announced earlier this week. Set to be completed in two phases, the first phase is expected to see completion by 2026, and will amount to costs of Dhs100 million. The primary aim of the project is to enhance the local biodiversity, preserve the sustainability of this vital natural habitat and bolster the sanctuary's position as a premier sustainable eco-tourism destination offering a unique and integrated experience. These features are to benefit both residents and tourists alike, designed to make use of the projected spurts in resident and tourist population. The upgrade is expected to multiply the number of visitors to the sanctuary six-fold, reaching between 250,000 and 300,000 annually. Phase One In Phase One, approximately 6.4 square kilometres of the sanctuary will be covered for development, with a focus on a more qualitative shift. The project will rehabilitate and improve mangrove habitats by planting new mangroves and increasing mangrove coverage by 60%, from 40 to 65 hectares. 3 of 12 This will also include the introduction of new irrigation channels, rehabilitation of mangrove forests and creating new habitats such as the mangrove lake, North Edge Lake and reed ponds. A Green Spine will also be developed. There will also be 144% increase in water bodies within the reserve, expanding their total area to 74 hectares, helping achieve major environmental benefits such as a 60% increase in carbon dioxide absorption. Additionally, 10 hectares of mudflats (salt flats) will be added. Phase Two The second phase will be dedicated to establishing and enhancing the main infrastructure and recreational services to eventually support the hosting of various events and activities within a total area of 20,000 square metres. Of course, this will be built around the eco-system. This plan also includes a uniquely designed visitor centre showcasing the sanctuary's diverse flora and fauna, birdwatching towers, and retail facilities like restaurants and kiosks, as well as environmental awareness and education centres. To complete the plan, 5.6 kilometres of cycling tracks and three kilometres of walking trails through natural landscapes will be added, along with 23 hectares of landscaping. Why Ras Al Khor? Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a vital part of Dubai's natural reserves, one of the largest and most significant, and it's development and preservation is a priority on the agenda of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The sanctuary covers approximately 6.4 square kilometres and was the first site in the UAE to be listed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance in 2007. It is also classified under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines. The sanctuary is counted among the most biodiversity-rich natural reserves in the region, hosting nearly 450 species of flora and fauna, including 47 hectares of mangroves, an important element of the coastline in this part of the world where greenery is not much of a common sight. It also welcomes around 20,000 migratory birds annually, including the iconic flamingo. @dubaimediaoffice Images: Online > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store