Abu Dhabi: Under the chairmanship of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs and Chairman of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, the Board convened to assess the Foundation's 2024 impact and approve its future strategic direction.
According to Emirates News Agency, Erth Zayed Philanthropies and its affiliates expanded their humanitarian and development initiatives in 2024, impacting millions globally. H.H. Sheikh Theyab emphasized a responsibility-driven approach to philanthropy, inspired by Sheikh Zayed's legacy, with intentions to enhance collaboration with communities and global partners. This aligns with the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, focusing on supporting global priorities such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The Board reviewed significant achievements, including AED1.4 billion allocated to 222 programs across healthcare, education, environmental conservation, food systems, and economic opportunities. An additional AED2.4 billion is committed to future programs, potentially benefiting over 450 million people worldwide. Erth Zayed Philanthropies also secured over AED2.5 billion in international partner commitments for joint initiatives, emphasizing its global mission.
Erth Zayed Philanthropies holds over AED6.4 billion in endowments across its network, ensuring long-term impact. In 2024, AED254 million was raised locally for humanitarian efforts, with AED134 million disbursed for community programs reaching 5 million people across more than 20 countries.
Notable health-related initiatives received AED321 million, including vaccination campaigns in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Gaza, and the expansion of the Reaching the Last Mile Fund. These efforts aim to eliminate neglected tropical diseases in Africa and Yemen, impacting over 400 million people. Six hospital projects were also part of strengthening local health systems.
Nassar Al Mubarak from the Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity highlighted the importance of global health initiatives in sustainable development. AED116 million was invested in agriculture and food security, aiding over 2 million people in Africa and South America, including displaced populations.
Dr. Mohammed Al Falahi from the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation stressed the role of food security in stability and opportunity. Education programs received AED232 million, supporting inclusive learning and scholarships for 11,000 low-income students in the UAE.
Economic empowerment initiatives benefited nearly 900,000 people, focusing on women, youth, and micro-entrepreneurs. Mohamed Haji AlKhoori of the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation emphasized the importance of equipping young people with skills for future challenges.
In environmental efforts, AED410 million was directed toward biodiversity and ecosystem revitalization, with programs led by Clean Rivers and the Mohamed Bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund. Rezan Khalifa Al Mubarak noted the significance of community-led conservation efforts.
The Active Abu Dhabi initiative mobilized over 75,000 volunteers, impacting 320,000 people through community service and public wellbeing campaigns. Ahmed Al Shamsi of Emirates Foundation highlighted the UAE's spirit of solidarity through voluntary work.
Board attendees included prominent figures such as Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Dr. Ahmed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, and others, who contributed to the strategic direction of Erth Zayed Philanthropies.
