Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, raised AED50 million in donations for The Child Fund during a charity Suhoor event themed ‘An Evening of Hope’. The gathering, attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors and Founding Chairman of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Trustees, brought together business leaders and philanthropists in support of humanitarian initiatives.

The event, held at One&Only One Zabeel, and personally hosted by UAE businessman Majid Jafar, CEO of Crescent Petroleum and Vice Chairman of Crescent Group, along with his wife Lynn Barghout Jafar, marked the largest donor-led fundraiser since the Foundation’s inception in 2013, further strengthening The Child Fund’s impact in transforming children’s lives.

The Suhoor was attended by Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors and Chair of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors, Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, Dr. Abdulla Al Khayat, CEO of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, and leading philanthropists and business leaders.

Inspired by the UAE’s ‘Year of Community’, the evening reinforced the power of collective giving to ensure every child receives the medical care they need. The generous support from donors will enable The Child Fund to expand its impact, providing life-saving treatments, medical research, and specialised patient care programmes for children in need.

The highlight of the evening was the Hope Paddle Raise, led by renowned presenter Tom Urquhart. Guests had the opportunity to fund patient care programmes and transformational projects aimed at advancing children’s health. To commence the Hope Paddle Raise, the hosts, together with Innovo Group and Apparel Group, pledged to match the first AED20 million raised, setting the tone for an extraordinary evening of hope and generosity.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum praised the generosity of the UAE community and the commitment of Majid and Lynn Jafar in championing healthcare for children, stating: “The UAE has always led with compassion, and tonight’s remarkable generosity exemplifies our nation’s unwavering commitment to ensuring every child receives the care they need. We are proud to witness this extraordinary act of philanthropy, especially in a year dedicated to fostering community spirit for the greater good.”

Majid and Lynn Jafar expressed their gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum for attending and supporting the event and to the guests who came together to support a cause very close to their hearts, saying: “It has been deeply moving to see our friends and community come together to make a lasting difference in the lives of children. The success of this evening is a testament to the power of collective giving in the Year of Community, and we are honored to support The Child Fund’s mission to bring hope to even more children and their families, and creating a future filled with possibilities.”

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg emphasised the life-transforming impact of Al Jalila Foundation’s patient care programmes and the significance of philanthropic support in advancing healthcare for young patients, noting: “We are grateful for Majid and Lynn’s incredible generosity. This record-breaking achievement reflects the generosity of our community and the shared belief that every child deserves access to life-saving medical care. The Child Fund has already helped thousands of children, and with the funds raised tonight, it will impact thousands more, offering them hope for a brighter future – perfectly embodying the spirit of Ramadan in this Year of Community.”

Among the notable donors were Innovo Group, Apparel Group, Omniyat, UPL, and Downtown Ventures, apart from several anonymous contributors.

With the record-breaking success of the fund-raiser, The Child Fund by Al Jalila Foundation continues to pave the way for a future where every child, regardless of their circumstances, has access to world-class medical care at Al Jalila Children’s, the only children’s hospital in the UAE.

In a strategic partnership with Emirates Motorsports Organization (EMSO), Al Jalila Foundation, the giving arm of Dubai Health, has been designated as its official charity partner for the 2025 racing season. This collaboration underscores EMSO’s commitment to community development and supporting patient care by leveraging the transformative power of sports philanthropy.

The partnership aligns with the UAE National Sports Strategy 2031 launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which aims to enhance community well-being through sports.

Throughout the upcoming season, EMSO will dedicate fundraising efforts and awareness campaigns to champion Al Jalila Foundation’s mission to transform lives through medical innovation. Fans, athletes, and sponsors will have the opportunity to contribute to healthcare initiatives aligned with Dubai Health’s ‘Patient First’ promise.

The Dubai International Baja is a premier off-road motorsport event held annually in the UAE. The hallmark of EMSO’s racing calendar celebrates 45 years since its inception as the Dubai International Rally in 1979. Now, in its eighth edition under the Baja format, it draws top competitors from around the world.

For the first time, Al Jalila Foundation joined as the official charity partner. The newly forged partnership will fuel a series of awareness and fundraising initiatives throughout the 2025 racing season.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed his gratitude: “We are honored to be EMSO’s charity partner of choice. EMSO is a leader in motorsports that shares our commitment to community impact. This partnership will showcase our patient care programs to the global motorsports community and bring vital support to life-transforming programs. Together, we aim to drive positive change and advance healthcare innovation.”’

Mahir Badri, CEO of Emirates Motorsports Organization, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “Motorsports unite people through connection and inspiration. By joining forces with Al Jalila Foundation, we can channel this energy to support transformative healthcare programs. This partnership embodies our shared belief in the power of sport to drive meaningful change and social impact.”

Following the signing ceremony at Al Jalila Foundation, EMSO CEO Mahir Badri, joined by international participants from the 2024 edition of the Dubai International Baja, visited Al Jalila Children’s Hospital to meet young patients, spread joy and inspiration while learning about the hospital’s pioneering approach to pediatric care. Emirati rider and world champion Mohammed Al Balooshi was among the racers who visited children and their families.

Dubai Health’s vision is to advance health for humanity through the integration of care, learning, discovery and giving. Al Jalila Foundation advances the Giving mission to impact lives and shape the future of health through philanthropy.

Al Jalila Foundation, the global healthcare philanthropic organization leading Dubai Health’s giving mission, recently celebrated a decade of supporting breast cancer patients through the 10th edition of #PINKtober,  its community fundraising campaign held every October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The campaign aims to increase awareness of the disease and raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure. In 2024, the campaign raised over AED 2 million.

According to research, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, affecting 1 in 8 women over their lifetime. Studies also indicate that, in the UAE, the average age of diagnoses is 10 years younger than in other parts of the world. These figures highlight the importance for ongoing research and awareness efforts to stay abreast of medical advancements in order to save lives.

By joining hands with hundreds of organizations and members of the community within the UAE, the #PINKtober campaign has helped raised over AED 15 million to support patient treatment and advance breast cancer research over the last decade. Consequently, this has assisted Al Jalila Foundation’s A’awen patient treatment program to ease patient lives by delivering medical assistance to those in need and focus on their recovery and well-being. Since 2013, 423 breast cancer patients have been supported by the A’awen patient treatment program.

Commenting on the 10-year edition, Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation said “We are immensely grateful to the people, the organizations and the community who in their great generosity have supported our #PINKtober campaign over the last decade through their donations, in-kind contributions, fundraising activities, and acts of kindness. The impact of this campaign in transforming the lives of those in need is a testament to the power of togetherness and our community collaborations.”

Over the last 10 years, Al Jalila Foundation has partnered with a wide array of schools, fitness centers, hotels, restaurants, financial institutions, and malls, who they have termed ‘Champions of Hope’ to help raise funds and spread hope to breast cancer patients and their families.

“Together, with our community partners, we are paving the way for a brighter future for those affected by breast cancer in our mission to transform the lives of our mothers, sisters, wives and friends,” added Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation.

In 2021 Al Jalila Foundation established ‘Majlis Al Amal’ – a unique ‘cancer drop-in centre’ and the first of its kind community centre in the UAE dedicated to improving the well-being of women affected by cancer. Literally translating to ‘Hope Lounge’ in English, Majlis Al Amal offers cancer patients and survivors emotional, physical and social support in a safe, nurturing and supportive environment. Members can visit at any time for information, a chat over tea or coffee, use the in-house library, take part in classes, or attend educational sessions presented by specialist volunteers – all offered free of charge.

On the occasion of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Al Jalila Foundation hosted a heartwarming panel discussion featuring an inspiring line-up of speakers who shared stories of resilience and transformation. Lead by Hanadi El Imam, the panel included Dr. Amna AlMehairi, Consultant Hematologist at Dubai Health, Majlis Al Amal  members Faiza Saeed, Leda Fagundes and Dina Shoukry. Together, they highlighted the ‘healing power of community support’ and how it became a beacon of hope throughout their cancer journey.

In celebration of World Heart Day, observed annually on September 29, Dubai Health has announced the launch of the 2024 edition of the ‘Nabadat’ campaign. This long-standing campaign is dedicated to providing life-saving heart treatments for patients with congenital heart defects, reflecting Dubai Health’s commitment to putting patients first in all its endeavors.  

Now under Dubai Health, the campaign has expanded to include adults, reaffirming its commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare for all. Driven by the Al Jalila Foundation, which leads Dubai Health’s giving mission, and in partnership with The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, the 2024This year, the campaign aims to provide life-saving treatment for 50 patients in need of cardiac care. Specialized medical teams in Dubai Health Hospitals will perform critical cardiac surgeries and catheterizations for children and adults who cannot afford treatment for congenital heart defects.  By delivering comprehensive care, including surgeries and post-surgical support, Nabadat continues to transform lives and bring hope to families in need.  

Since the campaign’s inception, Nabadat has delivered over 2,500 free surgeries, 6,000 medical screenings, and compassionate care across 45 treatment campaigns in nine countries with the support of over 300 healthcare professionals.  

Salih Zahir Al Mazrouei, Director General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment, said, “This campaign is a practical embodiment of our wise leadership’s directives in providing essential treatment for children suffering from congenital heart defects worldwide. Nabadat was launched in Dubai as a charitable and compassionate campaign to treat children’s hearts, both domestically and internationally. We aspire to treat the maximum number of children and adults across various regions globally to fulfil this ambitious humanitarian vision.” 

Al Mazrouei emphasized that the foundation covers all costs associated with the operations conducted during campaigns held within and outside the country, providing the necessary logistical support to cover treatments for as many children as possible. He explained that since its inception, the Nabadat campaign has expanded and carried out 45 campaigns in nine countries. The campaign has performed free surgeries for children both within the UAE and abroad, focussing on the areas with the greatest need. 

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of the Al Jalila Foundation, said, “We deeply appreciate the ongoing support of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment for their continuous support of this campaign, whose long-standing partnership over the years reinforces the values of patient care and community service. At Al Jalila Foundation, we take great pride in leading Dubai Health’s giving mission which is centered around transforming lives. This year’s Nabadat campaign, launched under Dubai Health for the first time, stands out as it has expanded to include both adults and children in need, ensuring that no one is left behind in receiving essential cardiac care. It reflects our broader commitment to making healthcare accessible to all, reinforcing our ‘Patient First’ promise.” 

Speaking on World Heart Day, Salem bin Lahij, Director of Patient Care Programs at Dubai Health, said, “The Nabadat campaign represents hope and opportunity for families in need. Under Dubai Health, critical cardiac surgeries and catheterizations have been performed at Dubai Hospital and Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, delivering comprehensive, compassionate care that transforms lives and creates brighter futures. Each year, we strive to expand our reach, and by extending the campaign this year, we have underwent surgeries to 25 more children and adults, aiming to treat a total of 50 patients by the end of the year. We are proud of what this campaign has achieved so far, and we will continue our commitment to utilizing all resources within our healthcare system to provide the highest levels of care.” 

Al Jalila Foundation, Emarat Al Youm newspaper, and the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities (IACAD) Department in Dubai, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to launch Your Donation Saves Lives, the second edition of an initiative to support patients in need of kidney transplantation in Dubai. The fundraising campaign urges businesses, entrepreneurs, and community members to embrace the initiative and offer essential support to those in need. 

The MoU was signed by Executive Director of the Charitable Sector, Mohamed Musabih of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai; Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of  Al Jalila Foundation; and Saud Al Darbi, Head of the News and Publishing Centre at Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI). The signing took place in the presence of Dr. Amer Sharif, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Health.  

Al Jalila Foundation, which leads Dubai Health’s giving mission, will be responsible for identifying patients within Dubai Health’s healthcare facilities, including Dubai Hospital, Al Jalila Children’s Hospital, and Mediclinic City Hospital. Al Jalila Foundation will provide the healthcare facilities with comprehensive details about the patients, their medical conditions, and the funds required for transplants and post-operative care. Furthermore, they will take measures to ensure that these cases receive timely support from the initiative. 

As a strategic partner, Emarat Al Youm newspaper will be responsible for transferring donations and contributions received through a hotline service. IACAD has pledged to collaborate with all parties and distribute donations to Dubai Health patients, identified by Al Jalila Foundation. 

His Excellency Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, Director General of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai,  confirmed that signing the MoU with Al Jalila Foundation and Emarat Al Youm newspaper supports the national agenda for achieving a better life for citizens and residents of the UAE, helping to empower and further humanitarian work in line with the vision of the wise leadership for supporting the spirit of giving in humanitarian work locally, regionally, and internationally. He explained that it also encourages community members to save lives and improve the quality of life of patients with organ failure, helping them return to being productive members of society. 

Dr. Amer Sharif, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Health, said, “We are grateful to our partners in this campaign, as it marks another significant step towards providing support to patients in need. Through this collaboration, we combine expertise and resources to positively impact individuals and society, advancing health for humanity. At Dubai Health, we’re guided by our primary value of ‘Patient First,’ and are dedicated to providing our communities the highest quality healthcare and treatment.” 

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, said, “We at the Al Jalila Foundation are pleased to launch the second edition of the ‘Your Donation Saves Lives’ campaign, aimed at raising funds for kidney transplant operations. By providing critical support for life-saving surgeries and therapeutic services, we are building on the success of the campaign’s first edition, which treated over 38 kidney failure patients and significantly reduced the financial burden on their families. This ongoing collaboration is a testament to our commitment to advancing humanitarian efforts, underscored by Dubai Health’s spirit of giving.”  

Saud Al Darbi, Head of the News and Publishing Centre at Dubai Media Incorporated, said that Emarat Al Youm has a history of participating in important initiatives such as Your Donations Save Lives, so deciding to participate was natural. These include a strong legacy of partnerships with governmental and semi-governmental entities to deliver community initiatives.“Based on prior experiences, the newspaper has confidence that philanthropic businessmen and community members will react to the initiative so that these patients can be treated.” 

Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) has made a substantial contribution to healthcare in Dubai with an AED 15 million contribution to Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the Giving mission of Dubai Health. The contribution will support the development of Dubai Health’s Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, the first comprehensive cancer care hospital in Dubai, underscoring their commitment to the community’s well-being and advancing healthcare infrastructure.

DIB’s contribution helps enable Dubai Health to launch an integrated model of cancer care at Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. Scheduled to open in 2026, the hospital will provide primary care services alongside advanced cancer treatment. This innovative approach will enable earlier detection and intervention, which is proven to optimise outcomes for patients.

Full spectrum of services

The hospital will house multidisciplinary teams, including specialised cancer nurses, offering a full spectrum of services in one location – from diagnosis to treatment to supportive care. Select treatments and services will be made available to patients in the comfort of their homes.

DIB’s support for the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital aligns with Dubai Health’s mission to enhance patient outcomes through an integrated model of care. By conducting on-site research and clinical trials, the hospital aims to continuously improve patient outcomes by discovering new treatments and therapies founded in evidence-based medicine. Dubai Health’s mission to connect patient care, research, medical education, and the spirit of giving at Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital will set a new standard for excellence in cancer care.

New benchmark

Nawaf Al Rayssi, Head of Community Support Services at Dubai Islamic Bank, said: “We are proud to partner with Al Jalila Foundation to empower Dubai Health on this transformative project. DIB’s responsible investment in the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of our community.

“This world-class facility will undoubtedly set a new benchmark for cancer care in the region and beyond, providing hope and advanced treatment options for countless individuals. As a responsible financial institution, Dubai Islamic Bank remains committed to the transformational journey of this nation, shaping the future of healthcare not only in the UAE, but the entire region.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed his gratitude for DIB’s significant contribution. “Dubai Islamic Bank’s generous contribution to the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital is a true testament to the power of community partnerships. This contribution to Al Jalila Foundation empowers Dubai Health to transform cancer care, putting patient care at the forefront of everything we do. Together, we are one step closer to realising this transformative, integrated healthcare facility, ultimately improving the health and well-being of our entire community.”

Dubai Chambers announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Al Jalila Foundation, donating AED 15 million to support the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, the first fully integrated and comprehensive cancer hospital in Dubai.

Dubai Chambers’ donation to the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital exemplifies their unwavering commitment to enhancing community welfare and supporting critical initiatives that improve quality of life.

The MoU was signed by Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, and Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Dubai Health Board Member, at the Dubai Chambers’ headquarters.

Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair said, “In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to strengthen social responsibility, Dubai Chambers is keen to support national projects that contribute to improving the quality of life and enhancing community services, thereby fostering social and economic development.”

Al Ghurair added, “Our cooperation with Al Jalila Foundation to support the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital reflects our commitment to the principles of social responsibility and the importance of charitable and humanitarian work, as part of our ongoing efforts to effectively contribute to serving the community.”

Dr. Raja Al Gurg said, “We are grateful to Dubai Chambers for their generous contribution toward establishing Dubai’s first comprehensive cancer hospital. Through this collaboration and the power of giving, Al Jalila Foundation is paving the way for enhanced care for cancer patients and their families in Dubai. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to foster a healthy and sustainable society, enhancing health and well-being through humanitarian, developmental, and community-focused efforts.”

Al Jalila Foundation is currently developing the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, spanning 56,000 square metres. The hospital will feature 50 clinics, 30 clinical research areas, 60 infusion rooms, 10 urgent care rooms, five radiotherapy rooms, and 116 beds, complemented by 19 gardens spread across the campus. These gardens will offer patients space for recovery and opportunities to spend time outdoors with their families, promoting enhanced mental well-being.

The new facility will house a multidisciplinary team, including specialised nursing staff, and will provide integrated healthcare services from initial diagnosis through treatment, ensuring comprehensive care under one roof. Selected treatments and services will also be accessible to patients in their homes, ensuring continuity of affordable care and reflecting Dubai Health’s commitment to prioritising patient needs.

DP World Foundation has donated AED 15 million to Al Jalila Foundation to support the development of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, highlighting its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community welfare.

The contribution is part of DP World Foundation’s broader efforts to support vital healthcare services and improve access to quality healthcare for cancer patients.

The allocated funds will support the development of Dubai’s first integrated cancer hospital, scheduled to open in 2026. The advanced healthcare facility, which is being established in collaboration with the Al Jalila Foundation, will feature 50 clinics, 30 research areas, 60 infusion rooms, and 116 inpatient beds spread across a sprawling 56,000-square-metre campus.

His Excellency Nasser Abdulla Al Neyadi, Chief Officer Group Security, Government Relations & Public Affairs (GRPA), and DP World Foundation, presented the contribution during a visit to Al Jalila Foundation, including the Mohammed Bin Rashid Biomedical Research Centre, where he met with key healthcare officials and stakeholders.

HE Al Neyadi said: “We are deeply committed to making a real difference in society, and this donation reflects our dedication to supporting healthcare institutions and ensuring that quality care is accessible to everyone. We are proud to contribute to such a respected institution leading the way in cancer care and research. Together, we aspire to foster a healthier future for all.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of the Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We extend heartfelt gratitude to the DP World Foundation for their generous donation towards the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. The collaboration exemplifies the transformative impact of partnerships in accelerating the delivery of critical healthcare services and further emphasises Dubai Health’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of our community.

Together, with the support of our partners, we are steadfast in our dedication to transforming lives and ensuring better health for everyone.”

The philanthropic arm of DP World, DP World Foundation is committed to promoting social responsibility and supporting those in need, regardless of nationality, race, or religion. Earlier this year, DP World Foundation contributed AED 10 million to the Mothers’ Endowment Campaign launched to support the education of millions around the world.