Dubai: AED91.405 million was raised today by the Most Noble Number charity auction held in Dubai, supporting the Edge of Life campaign aimed at rescuing five million children from hunger. Launched during Ramadan by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the campaign seeks to raise a minimum of AED 1 billion to combat childhood hunger globally.
According to Emirates News Agency, the funds were amassed through the auction of 29 special plate and mobile numbers, contributing AED 91.405 million. Additionally, international humanitarian and philanthropic organisations pledged contributions worth $276.36 million (AED 1.014 billion), while individual commitments totaled AED 35.816 million. This was announced at a Suhoor event organised by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) at the Armani Dubai Hotel, Burj Khalifa.
The event united philanthropic and business leaders in collaboration with Badr Jafar, the Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Business and Philanthropy. Proceeds from the auction, organised by MBRGI alongside Emirates Auction and supported by RTA, e and , and du, will benefit the Edge of Life campaign.
The campaign partners with UNICEF, Save the Children, the Children's Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), and Action Against Hunger, focusing on providing nutrition and protecting children from hunger. Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary General of MBRGI, highlighted the global humanitarian importance of the campaign and the generous contributions received from various sectors.
Al Gergawi stated, "The Most Noble Number charity auction showcased the UAE community's values of compassion and solidarity, reflecting its commitment to aiding vulnerable populations worldwide." He emphasized the community's strong support for the UAE's humanitarian initiatives.
During the Suhoor event, significant pledges were announced, including $100 million (AED 367 million) from the Aga Khan Foundation and $50 million (AED 184 million) each from the Gates Foundation, EdelGive Foundation, and Piramal Foundation. Individual contributions included AED 10 million from Badr Jafar and multiple AED 5 million donations from other prominent figures.
The auction featured 29 special numbers, including 9 RTA plate numbers, 10 premium e and numbers, and 10 premium du numbers, raising significant amounts. RTA plate numbers alone garnered AED 81.5 million, while e and and du numbers together raised AED 9.905 million.
The Edge of Life campaign continues to welcome donations through various channels, including its website, a dedicated call center, bank transfers, and SMS donations. Contributions are also facilitated via the DubaiNow app, YallaGive.com, and the Jood platform.
