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.

Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, has launched the second phase of its Wellness on Wheels mobile clinic initiative at Al Barsha Park, continuing its mission to provide accessible healthcare services.

Operating daily until March 30, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, these clinics offer free healthcare services, including primary medical consultations, diabetes screenings, vital signs monitoring, and essential medical referrals. This phase follows a successful rollout at Al Khawaneej Park during the first two weeks of Ramadan, and is delivered in partnership with the Islamic Affairs & Charitable Activities Department and the Dubai Sports Council.

Bringing Healthcare to Communities

Dr Dhoha Alawadhi, Director of Community Engagement Programs at Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Our mobile clinics are designed to reach diverse community groups throughout the year, from laborers and senior citizens to orphans and people of determination. We’re bringing healthcare directly to where people live and gather, eliminating barriers to access.”

The clinics provide various preventive and diagnostic services, including vital signs monitoring (temperature, blood pressure, pulse rate, blood oxygen), body mass index (BMI) calculation, chronic disease screenings, and specialized guidance for managing health conditions during Ramadan. Patients requiring additional care are referred to the nearest healthcare facility. For those unable to afford treatment, financial assistance is available through the Foundation’s A’awen program, which covers medical expenses for those in need.

Community Impact and Volunteer Support

The initiative has garnered positive feedback from the community. Mohammed Farhan Iftikhar, a recent visitor, praised the supportive medical team and efficient service. He said: “The entire check-up process was smooth and hassle-free.”

Another beneficiary, Wafa Ouda, highlighted the convenience of the mobile clinics. She said: “This is a quick and accessible alternative to hospital screenings, bringing essential services to our neighborhood.”

Volunteers play a significant role at the mobile clinics, with healthcare professionals from Dubai Health and students from Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences contributing their time and expertise to expand the reach of the program.

This initiative aligns with Dubai Health’s Patient First approach and supports the UAE Year of Community, reinforcing a spirit of giving and social solidarity.

Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, has unveiled its Ramadan campaign dedicated to supporting The Child Fund , which provides life-changing medical care for children in need while alleviating financial pressure on their families.

Established in November 2023, The Child Fund provides essential healthcare services at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital. Staffed by a specialized medical team and advanced technology, the fund aims to provide high-quality, comprehensive care to 3,000 children annually.

In the month of Ramadan, and in alignment with the Year of Community, Al Jalila Foundation has partnered with Emirates General Petroleum Corporation (Emarat) to install smart donation boxes across service stations, enabling customers to contribute to The Child Fund throughout the year.

Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, expressed profound appreciation to partners and donors. He said: “The collective effort to support children reflects the extraordinary solidarity within our community. Together, we are creating meaningful change for these young lives, offering them the promise of a healthier future. Every child deserves access to exceptional medical care regardless of financial circumstances. This commitment to putting patients first drives our mission to help children facing health challenges realize their full potential.”

Donation channels

The foundation offers multiple convenient donation methods, official website www.aljalilafoundation.ae, “Help a Patient” program via crowdfunding www.giving.aljalilafoundation.ae, and SMS donations by sending “hope” to 4202, 4206, 4209, or 4409 via Etisalat by e& and du.

The Endowments and Minors’ Trust Foundation in Dubai (AWQAF Dubai) has announced a collaboration with Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Dubai Health, in keeping with the spirit of charity and giving exemplified by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, through the launch of various humanitarian initiatives during Ramadan.

The partnership aims to deliver a sustainable endowment building dedicated to supporting the treatment of patients at the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, with the total cost projected to exceed AED38.5 million.

The collaboration was formalised through an agreement signed between the two parties. Under the terms of the contract, AWQAF Dubai will construct a seven-storey endowment building in the Dubai South area on a plot of land owned by Al Jalila Foundation that is valued at AED8.5 million, with the latter covering the construction costs, amounting to AED30 million, over a period of 16 months.

According to the agreement, both the building and the land it occupies will serve as a perpetual endowment under the supervision of AWQAF Dubai. The revenues generated from the project will entirely go towards supporting the treatment of patients at the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital.

Ali Al Mutawa, Secretary-General of AWQAF Dubai, emphasised that the collaboration with Al Jalila Foundation to develop an investment property endowment aimed at supporting humanitarian cases at Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital reflects AWQAF’s commitment to advancing healthcare in society. It also underscores efforts to support the treatment of cancer patients and alleviate the financial burden on their families.

Al Mutawa stated that AWQAF Dubai will immediately begin implementing the agreement, overseeing all construction operations and ensuring the project’s eventual completion within the agreed timeframe. AWQAF Dubai will also manage and promote investment in the property according to the highest standards to maximise benefits for underprivileged patients.

He added, “Through our endowment projects, we aim to contribute to building a healthy and sustainable society by focusing on developmental endowments. This reaffirms our ongoing commitment to actively serving the community and supporting national projects that enhance quality of life.”

Dr. Raja Eisa Al Gurg, Member of the Board of Directors of DH and Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation, said, “We extend our gratitude to AWQAF Dubai for their cooperation in establishing this sustainable endowment project. We believe in the importance of partnerships between institutions to create a lasting impact on patients’ lives, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in embedding charitable and humanitarian work as a core principle of society.

This endowment will provide long-term support to the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, enabling the provision of specialised treatment for cancer patients. As the first comprehensive and integrated cancer hospital in Dubai, it plays a vital role in advancing cancer care.”

She added, “Our collaboration with AWQAF Dubai highlights Al Jalila Foundation’s dedication to its humanitarian mission of supporting the healthcare sector. This sustainable endowment represents a significant step toward strengthening national efforts to support cancer patients.”

Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, and Emirates Petroleum Company P.J.S.C – Emarat have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance patient care through community-driven fundraising.

The agreement, signed by Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, and H.E. Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer of Emarat, reflects both organizations’ shared commitment to philanthropy and advancing healthcare in the UAE.

Under the MOU, Emirates Petroleum will highlight Al Jalila Foundation’s initiatives across select service stations throughout the year, including the Ramadan Campaign. Smart donation boxes from Al Jalila Foundation will be prominently featured, offering customers a seamless way to contribute and support life-transforming medical programs.

H.E. Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer of Emarat, said: “We are proud to partner with Al Jalila Foundation to support charitable initiatives across prime locations within our network, reflecting our deep commitment to corporate social responsibility and community well-being. At Emarat, we believe that businesses have a vital role to play in uplifting society, and this partnership allows us to channel our resources toward meaningful causes that truly impact lives. In the Year of Community, we will combine our efforts to drive positive change, support those in need, and foster a culture of giving across the UAE.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “In this Year of Community, our partnership with Emarat significantly expands our ability to connect with people across the UAE. Through Emarat’s extensive network, we are making it easier for members of the community to contribute to life-changing medical programs in line with our goal to be the community’s trusted healthcare charity of choice. This collaboration exemplifies how, together, we can create meaningful impact and ensure that quality healthcare reaches those who need it most.”

About Emarat:

Emirates Petroleum Company (Emarat) is one of the UAE’s leading energy providers, established in 1980 to meet the nation’s growing energy demands. Emarat operates an extensive network of service stations across the UAE, offering high-quality fuel, convenience retail, and automotive services, alongside a comprehensive range of commercial fuel, natural gas, and lubricant products.

Emarat is committed to corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and community well-being, aligning with the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future.

Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the giving mission of Dubai Health, has announced a combined donation of AED 10 million towards establishing the Center for Innovation and Technology. The contributions will support Dubai Health in its vision to advance health for humanity by fostering innovation, technology, and collaboration.

The Center for Innovation and Technology is dedicated to transforming research, ideas, and technologies into real-world healthcare solutions that improve patient care and outcomes. Inspired by leading global healthcare innovation centers, this space will integrate clinical expertise, design practice and technology, fostering collaboration amongst students, clinicians, researchers, engineers, designers, startups, and industry leaders to accelerate medical advancements. The center will focus on developing, testing, and scaling healthcare solutions in four key areas with dedicated labs in AI and Data, Robotics and Sensors, Digital Medicine, and Design4Health—a human-centered approach to reimagining patient care. The initiative will ensure that Dubai Health remains at the forefront of innovation in health sciences with the support of strategic partnerships across the private sector and leading academic and health organizations in the UAE, United States, Europe, and Asia Pacific.

Dr. Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg, Chairperson and Managing Director of Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation and a member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, stated: “Dubai Health is committed to advancing healthcare, ensuring that patient care is continuously enhanced through research and technology. Our contribution to the Center for Innovation and Technology reflects our belief in Dubai Health’s vision to lead in medical excellence and transform healthcare in the region and beyond.”

Dr Amina Al Rostamani, Board Member at AW Rostamani Group, and member of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors, said: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we believe in the transformative power of giving, recognising it as an essential catalyst for driving innovation in healthcare. This strategic investment is a direct commitment to accelerating the pace of discovery, ensuring that cutting-edge healthcare solutions reach our communities swiftly. Moreover, it forges a new era of patient-centered care, one that enhances well-being and improves lives for those under our care.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, added: “We are grateful to Dr. Raja Al Gurg and Dr. Amina Al Rostamani for this donation, which exemplifies how giving enhances patient care. With the generous support of our partners, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation and AWRostamani Holdings, the Dubai Health Center for Innovation and Technology can enable smarter, more efficient, and patient-centered solutions, ultimately upholding our Patient First promise.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni: Dubai has built a strong culture of sustainable giving, fostering strategic partnerships locally and internationally.

“This generous contribution reflects a deep commitment to philanthropy and healthcare advancement, reinforcing the values of compassion and solidarity that define our society”

Government of Dubai Media Office – 19 February 2025: Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, announced that it has received a AED50 million donation from the Eissa Abdullah Abdullaziz Al Othman Endowment in Kuwait to support the construction and development of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai’s first fully integrated, comprehensive cancer facility.

The contribution was formalised during a signing ceremony at Al Jalila Foundation, attended by Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, along with endowment trustees Yousef Eissa Al Othman, Nabil Eissa Al Othman, and Abdulla Eissa Al Othman. The trustees were given an overview of the hospital project and briefed on the significant impact of their donation.

During the visit, the delegation toured Dubai Health’s facilities, including its flagship research and healthcare initiatives such as the Biobank and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Medical Research Institute. They also gained insights on various other projects supporting medical research, education, and patient care.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Dubai has built a strong culture of sustainable giving, fostering strategic partnerships locally and internationally. This generous contribution reflects a deep commitment to philanthropy and healthcare advancement, reinforcing the values of compassion and solidarity that define our society. We are grateful for the donors’ trust, which plays a vital role in supporting humanitarian and medical initiatives that transform lives.”

He added: “This donation will play a vital role in changing the lives of many, as it offers hope and comfort to cancer patients and their families during challenging times.”

In recognition of the generous donation, the hospital’s intensive care unit (ICU) will be named the ‘Critical Care Unit-Supported By Waqf Eissa Abdullah Al Othman and Waqf Tiba Abdullwahab Al Othman – Kuwait.’

Faisal Eissa Al Othman, the representative of the endowment, said: “We are proud to collaborate with Al Jalila Foundation on this humanitarian initiative, which honours the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This hospital will provide essential, specialised care for cancer patients, ensuring they receive the best possible treatment and support.”

He added: “Our donation is an extension of the legacy of Eissa Abdullah Abdullaziz Al Othman and Tiba Abdullwahab Abdullaziz Al Othman, who dedicated their lives to philanthropy and serving the community. Today, we follow in their footsteps, embracing their spirit of giving and reaffirming our commitment to supporting healthcare initiatives that make a meaningful difference to people’s lives. We firmly believe in strengthening the healthcare sector and hope that this endowment will help to make a positive impact on people’s lives, serving as an ongoing source of support for cancer patients.”

Part of Dubai Health, the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital will span 56,000 square metres, offering comprehensive cancer care under one roof. The facility is designed to serve around 30,000 patients annually.

Dubai Healthcare City Authority (DHCA), the governing body of Dubai Healthcare City (DHCC) free zone, has announced a strategic partnership with Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the Giving mission of Dubai Health. This partnership aims to foster opportunities for collaborative research, knowledge exchange and new initiatives to advance regional healthcare services.

As part of the agreement, DHCA will promote Al Jalila Foundation as its ‘Charity of Choice,’ collaborate on fundraising efforts and support Dubai Health’s initiatives, including the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. The agreement also focuses on implementing charitable, volunteerism and humanitarian initiatives in the healthcare sector. Additionally, it aims to support aspiring healthcare professionals and enhance medical education, contributing to the development of a highly skilled healthcare workforce.

Issam Galadari, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Healthcare City Authority, said: “This partnership underscores our commitment to supporting Al Jalila’s vital role in advancing medical education, research and innovation in Dubai. By collaborating on impactful initiatives and programmes, we are contributing to the foundation’s mission of enhancing healthcare initiative and services.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, commented: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we believe that collaboration is key to advancing healthcare and shaping a healthier future. Through this partnership with Dubai Healthcare City Authority, we are strengthening our commitment to medical education and research in the healthcare sector. Together, we will drive impactful initiatives that develop our healthcare professionals, which contribute towards building a future-ready healthcare ecosystem that meets the evolving needs of our community.”

Within the agreement, Al Jalila Foundation will deliver ‘Wellness on Wheels’ mobile clinic services to DHCC’s community and provide volunteering opportunities.

The agreement aligns with Dubai’s strategic vision of advancing healthcare industry and addressing the evolving needs of the city and beyond.

Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the Giving mission of Dubai Health, and Mediclinic Middle East, one of the UAE’s leading private healthcare providers, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate for the mutual purpose of enhancing patient care, supporting charitable initiatives and promoting community health and well-being.

The agreement was formalized by (enter name and designation of representative for AJF), and Hein van Eck, Chief Executive Officer of Mediclinic Middle East, at a ceremony held at Arab Health in Dubai.

This collaboration aligns with the Year of Community 2025 as declared by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, underscoring a national commitment to social responsibility and collective progress. Through this partnership, Al Jalila Foundation and Mediclinic Middle East will drive initiatives to support patients and innovation in healthcare, implement volunteer and charitable programmes, and advance charitable and humanitarian work in healthcare.

Dr Amer Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we believe in the importance of partnership to broaden the reach of charitable healthcare initiatives. This partnership with Mediclinic Middle East Group reflects our shared commitment to enhancing the quality of healthcare in our communities. We are grateful for this partnership and look forward to achieving valuable initiatives that benefit patients and the community.”

Hein van Eck, Chief Executive Officer of Mediclinic Middle East, said: “We are delighted to enter this strategic partnership with Al Jalila Foundation, which will allow both parties to leverage their considerable capabilities for the greater good of patients in the UAE. In the spirit of the Year of Community, which aims to strengthen social bonds and foster shared responsibility, Mediclinic Middle East looks forward to supporting Al Jalila Foundation’s charitable initiatives and ensuring healthcare services are extended to more vulnerable communities.”

King’s College Hospital London Dubai has partnered with Al Jalila Foundation, which leads the Giving mission of Dubai Health, to enhance healthcare access and community well-being through charitable initiatives. The agreement was signed at Arab Health 2025 by Kimberly Pierce, CEO of King’s College Hospital London Dubai, and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation.

Key areas of collaboration include:

• Improving Access to Quality Healthcare: Initiatives will focus on providing quality healthcare, especially to underserved communities.
• Supporting Charitable Programs: The partnership will enhance volunteer-driven efforts, including the “Wellness on Wheels” mobile medical clinic.
• Promoting Community Health: The collaboration aims to support organ transplantation programs and assist female cancer patients at ‘Majlis Al Amal.’

Kimberly Pierce stated, “This agreement reflects our commitment to serving the community. Together with Dubai Health and Al Jalila Foundation, we aim to bring hope and care to those in need.” Dr. Amer Al Zarooni added, “This partnership enhances access to quality healthcare and aligns with Dubai Health’s ‘Patient First’ promise.”

About King’s College Hospital London Dubai
King’s College Hospital Dubai delivers world-class healthcare, leveraging expertise from its London counterpart to provide exceptional patient care across a wide range of specialties.