The initiative reflects the UAE leadership’s commitment to supporting all segments of society and strengthening endowment as a sustainable development tool
Abu Dhabi, 10 March 2026: The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat has contributed AED 4 million in support of the “Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans” initiative, launched by the Endowments and Minors’ Funds Authority – Awqaf Abu Dhabi as part of the Year of Family, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, with the aim of establishing a sustainable endowment model that ensures continued support for orphans in the areas of education, healthcare, and dignified living.
This contribution reflects the UAE’s wise leadership’s ongoing commitment to supporting all segments of society and strengthening the country’s humanitarian and social development ecosystem, reinforcing the values of solidarity and social cohesion that underpin the nation’s development journey.
H.E. Dr. Omar Habtour Al Derei, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat (AWQAF), said: “This contribution reflects our commitment to advancing a sustainable endowment model that ensures continued care and support for orphans by providing stable resources that empower them and enhance their quality of life, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and dignified living. This aligns with the UAE’s vision of building a cohesive society grounded in the values of compassion and solidarity.”
“The Authority remains committed to supporting national endowment and charitable initiatives and engaging with them through various forms of support, including financial, awareness, and advisory contributions, helping advance their noble humanitarian goals.” His Excellency added.
He noted that waqf (endowment) represents a fundamental pillar of sustainable charitable work, distinguished by the preservation of capital and the continuity of giving across generations, thereby enhancing its long-term social and humanitarian impact while strengthening community cohesion.
Al Darei also praised the continued support of the UAE’s wise leadership for endowment and charitable initiatives. He commended the efforts of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and Mother of the Nation, highlighting her longstanding commitment to strengthening family stability and supporting orphan care. He emphasised that caring for orphans is among the most noble and rewarding acts of charity, given its profound role in nurturing empowered generations capable of contributing meaningfully to the UAE’s sustainable development.
The “Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans” initiative forms part of a national vision aimed at transforming community contributions into long-term endowment returns invested through sustainable mechanisms. This approach ensures continued support for orphans across education, healthcare, and living expenses, while enhancing their quality of life and reinforcing the foundations of a balanced and cohesive society.
To learn more about the initiative, or to contribute, visit Awqaf Abu Dhabi’s website: https://contribute.adawqaf.gov.ae/.
About Awqaf Abu Dhabi:
Established in May 2023, Awqaf Abu Dhabi promotes and advances the practice of endowment (waqf), maximising social and financial impact across the community through sustainable investments and partnerships.
In addition to overseeing endowment-related processes, Awqaf Abu Dhabi manages the financial guardianship and development of the funds of minors, interdicted persons and others, supporting greater financial and social inclusion.
Awqaf Abu Dhabi aims to strengthen the culture of endowments, and organises events, conferences, and seminars focused on the governance, management and investment of endowments and minors’ funds, while contributing to the evolution of endowment practices across the Emirate.