Al Jalila Foundation, the giving arm of Dubai Health, announced that it has received a donation of AED11.3 million from renowned businessman and philanthropist His Excellency Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor. The pledge will help cover the annual cost of 4,000 dialysis sessions for needy patients residing in the UAE. Additionally, the donation will fund the renovation of the nephrology unit at Dubai Hospital.

The renovated nephrology unit will be named after the late Mohammed Khalifa Al Suwaidi in honour of his legacy of philanthropy and community service. The contribution for the unit comes from Al Suwaidi’s estate, which is managed by His Excellency Al Habtoor as per Al Suwaidi’s will. The funds are dedicated to support charitable and humanitarian projects and HE Al Habtoor has taken care to ensure that the resources are used to support initiatives that enhance lives, elevate healthcare services, and benefit society at large.

Speaking about the initiative, HE Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, Founder and Chairman of Al Habtoor Group, said: “We are proud to continue the legacy of our founding fathers, who instilled in us the values of solidarity and generosity that define the UAE. Supporting Al Jalila Foundation reflects our steadfast commitment to advancing healthcare and easing the burdens of kidney patients.

“It is an honour that the renovated nephrology unit will bear the name of the late Mohammed Khalifa Al Suwaidi, paying tribute to his legacy of compassion and philanthropy. Business leaders have a critical role in supporting healthcare systems and driving sustainable development in our society. Investing in healthcare is an investment in a healthier, more prosperous future. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Al Jalila Foundation for their tireless efforts in serving those in need, and I look forward to continuing this impactful partnership.”

Dr. Amer Sharif, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Health, commented: “We deeply appreciate this generous contribution from HE Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, one of the nation’s most prominent philanthropic leaders. His initiative underscores the importance of community engagement in bolstering the healthcare system and reflects the spirit of giving that is a cornerstone of our society and healthcare vision. This donation will significantly enhance the quality of care for patients while ensuring its sustainability.”

The collective efforts of donors, whether individuals or organisations, play an essential role in saving lives, improving patients’ quality of life, and advancing the healthcare infrastructure to deliver world-class medical services, he added.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “This generous support from HE Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor will provide free dialysis treatment to a significant number of kidney failure patients through our A’awen patient a treatment programme, designed to offer financial support to those in need. This initiative aligns with Dubai Health’s commitment to the ‘Patient First’ promise.”

Al Jalila Foundation, established in 2013 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, today celebrated its 10th anniversary as a non-profit organisation dedicated to transforming lives, delivering hope and advancing healthcare and medical innovation for the greater benefit of humanity.

The anniversary event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, was attended by Dr. Raja Easa Saleh Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Dubai Health Board Member; Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU); and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, alongside esteemed giving partners who have supported the healthcare charity since 2013 and continue their commitment to date.

During the event, the Foundation outlined its achievements over the past decade and extended gratitude to major donors for their ongoing support throughout the Foundation’s journey. Notable partners include Abdul Wahid Al Rostamani Group, Amity University, Dr Wael Al Mahmeed, Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation, Abdul Rahim Mohammed Belghozooz Al Zarooni, AbdulGhaffar Hussain, Hussain Khansaheb and Mirwais Azizi.

Commenting on the occasion, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said: “The sustained charitable efforts in the UAE embody the values and principles deeply ingrained in the culture and character of the UAE people. Over the past decade, Al Jalila Foundation has been a testament to the generosity and support of our donors, contributing significantly to the advancement of healthcare and the well-being of our community. We are immensely grateful for their continued commitment, which allows us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need, aligning with the enduring spirit of compassion that defines the very essence of the UAE. As we celebrate 10 years of giving, we are committed to furthering our mission to advance philanthropy within the health sector.”

Dedicated to promoting global health through its charitable initiatives, Al Jalila Foundation has achieved considerable success in its commitment to philanthropic projects in medical education, research and patient care, positively impacting numerous lives. The Foundation’s impact is apparent in its assistance to 8,768 patients, with 30% being children, confronting life-threatening conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and other chronic illnesses. This underscores its continual dedication to easing the challenges faced by those in need.

In efforts to advance research, Al Jalila Foundation has championed progress by awarding 125 research grants and investing almost AED50 million in research infrastructure and knowledge-creation. Additionally, the Foundation’s contribution extends to nurturing future healthcare leaders through the provision of 146 scholarships to the brightest medical students and residents. Through pioneering projects and continued philanthropic efforts, Al Jalila Foundation stands as a beacon of hope, catalysing positive change in the landscape of healthcare and education.

Dr. Raja Al Gurg said: “For over a decade, Al Jalila Foundation has made significant strides through its healthcare programmes, transforming the lives of thousands of students, scientists and patients. Today, as we reflect on our journey, we proudly recognise the unwavering dedication and extraordinary generosity of our donors and supporters. Together, united by a shared commitment to advance the health and well-being of our people, we are not only shaping the present but also laying the foundation for a sustainable and brighter future in healthcare. Through sustainable practices and innovative approaches, Al Jalila Foundation is contributing to the evolution of healthcare, ensuring a lasting impact for generations to come.”

She added: “As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his unwavering commitment to healthcare. The inspiration and driving force fuelling our endeavours stem from Sheikh Mohammed’s visionary leadership and compassion. We remain steadfast in realising his vision and ambitious goals as we work to address some of the world’s most pressing health challenges through our healthcare programmes and projects, giving hope to patients and their families.”

Dr. Amer Sharif said: “Al Jalila Foundation’s dedication to advancing healthcare and fostering innovation has been truly commendable. The Foundation has contributed to impacting lives and shaping the future of health, aligning with our ‘Patient First’ promise. As we mark a decade of transformative impact, I extend my sincere gratitude to the entire Al Jalila Foundation team, whose commitment to excellence and compassionate care not only upholds our shared commitment to patients but also continues to elevate the standards of healthcare in our community.”

Recognising the commitment and support from the donor community and team members, Dr. Amer Al Zarooni said: “Our donors make it possible to deliver life-transforming programmes across our mission areas of care, learning and discovery. It is a privilege to be in a position to do the work we do, and our people serve with heart and compassion. We draw strength from the support we receive. Together, we create hope.”

“At Al Jalila Foundation, we are very proud to be playing our part in building a legacy where the health and wellbeing of future generations is a priority. We thank HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, our Founder, for entrusting us with his vison and empowering us to transform lives of patients, students, and scientists. We would also like to thank HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum and Dr. Raja Al Gurg whose leadership, wisdom and guidance have been instrumental in shaping Al Jalila Foundation into what it is today,” Dr. Al Zarooni added.

Al Jalila Foundation, a global healthcare philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical innovation, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Dubai Sports Council (DSC) aimed at enhancing the contributions of the sports sector towards humanitarian programmes and charitable initiatives.

The signing of the agreement aligns with the UAE National Sports Strategy 2031 that was recently launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to promote community well-being through sports. The Strategy seeks to foster a culture of physical activity, improve the capabilities of sports professionals, identify promising athletes in educational institutions, and modernise sports education methods and regulations.

During the ceremony, the ‘Champions of Hope’ tribute wall, dedicated to recognising extraordinary sports personalities who have made significant contributions to Al Jalila Foundation, was inaugurated.

The inauguration of the tribute wall and the MoU signing ceremony was attended by His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of DSC; Nasser Aman Al Rahma, Assistant Secretary General of DSC; Dr Amer Sharif, Chief Executive Officer of DAHC; Dr Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, and representatives of DSC and DAHC.

Al Jalila Foundation has been officially designated as the charity partner of the Dubai Sports Council, marking a significant collaboration between the two entities. Together, they will embark on a series of initiatives aimed at promoting sports philanthropy and fostering a culture of sports, physical activity and inclusive participation across all segments of society.

Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of the Al Jalila Foundation, said “Philanthropy possesses an extraordinary capacity to create lasting change. United by the common language of sport, the collaboration between Al Jalila Foundation and the DSC symbolises DAHC’s unwavering dedication to elevate the overall health and well-being of people in the UAE.”

He added: “Sports provide an incredible platform to reach hundreds of thousands of individuals, promoting healthy lifestyles and generating funds for charitable endeavours. We take immense pride in the support we receive from numerous sporting legends, and it is truly inspiring to witness globally recognised athletes utilising their influence to bring about positive change in people’s lives. The Champions of Hope tribute wall will stand as a lasting testament to compassion, generosity and empowerment, leaving a legacy for future generations.”

His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of DSC, expressed his delight in singing the agreement with Al Jalila Foundation and conveyed his deep admiration for the remarkable societal and humanitarian accomplishments made thus far. “The role of sports has proven to be instrumental in supporting philanthropic initiatives and advancing medical research, ultimately making significant contributions to patient recovery. Sports stars play crucial roles, not only in terms of achieving outstanding results and bringing happiness to their fans, but also in actively supporting community, sports and humanitarian initiatives. Their involvement highlights the tireless efforts of national institutions, with Al Jalila Foundation being at the forefront, in making a positive impact on society.”

His Excellency added: “We have witnessed successful collaborations between DSC and Al Jalila Foundation in the past, always uniting our shared objectives of national sports, humanitarian endeavours and community service to benefit humanity.”

Champions of Hope Tribute Wall

Symbolic of the remarkable strength of community within the realm of sports, the Champions of Hope tribute wall serves as a showcase for sports memorabilia, including two Guinness World Records that were achieved through items sold at the Al Jalila Foundation charity auction in 2015. Notably, among these record-breaking items is a race helmet worn by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum during his triumphant victory at the FEI World Endurance Championship in 2012, which fetched an astounding AED24 million. Additionally, the display features the exceptional AED2.4 million Al Yamamah saddle generously donated by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, which he rode to victory at the 2014 Altech FEI World Equestrian Games held in Normandy, France.

Since its establishment, Al Jalila Foundation has been harnessing the power of sports to support its healthcare philanthropic programmes. Over the years, the Foundation has been part of iconic sporting events to help raise awareness around a number of causes. Through its engagement in these iconic sporting occasions, the Foundation has generated substantial funds to support its various programmes including 7 Emirates Run, Beat Diabetes Walk, Pink is Punk.

Overall, Al Jalila Foundation has held a total of 300 sporting events and raised almost AED10 million. The latest partnership with DSC will further contribute to realising the Foundation’s objective to transform lives through sports.

As the official Sports Ambassador for Al Jalila Foundation, the esteemed former Real Madrid footballer Michel Salgado has made significant contributions by donating his customised boots to the Foundation and fostering fruitful collaborations with renowned footballer and former Real Madrid goalkeeper, Iker Casillas, as well as esteemed corporate fundraising partners. In close partnership with Clarence Seedorf, a four-time UEFA Champions League winner, the Foundation strives to amplify awareness regarding the importance of cultivating a healthy lifestyle, especially among the younger generation. Notably, MMA coach Javier Mendez, alongside an impressive line-up of top-tier fighters including the current UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev, UAE Warriors fighter Emirati Hadi Al Husseini, and the UAE’s pioneering Emirati female boxer Fahima Falaknaz, have generously contributed signed items and are actively engaged in multiple initiatives in collaboration with the Foundation.

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

Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), Member of the Dubai Council and Member of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, visited Majlis Al Amal, the UAE’s first cancer drop-in centre, established by Al Jalila Foundation. Majlis Al Amal is the first community centre of its kind that provides a ‘home away from home’ for female cancer patients and survivors.

Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed was welcomed at the offices of Al Jalila Foundation by Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Foundation, and Dr. Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of the Foundation. Her Highness was briefed about the organisation’s healthcare programmes transforming patients’ lives. She was also briefed on the progress of the project to build ‘Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital’, the UAE’s first cancer charity hospital, being developed by Al Jalila Foundation with the mission of redefining cancer care in the region.

Her Highness toured Majlis Al Amal where cancer patients can drop in anytime for information, take part in art workshops, and attend educational sessions conducted by medical experts. The centre features several other activities designed to enhance the wellbeing of its members. The services of the centre are offered free of charge by volunteers passionate about making a difference to the lives of women affected by cancer. Less than a year since opening its doors, Majlis Al Amal has developed into a 400-strong community of women with cancer. The centre’s members come from all backgrounds united in their mission – to beat cancer.

During her visit, which supports international breast cancer awareness month being marked in October, HH Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed commended the Foundation’s various teams that work behind its programmes. Her Highness met with women who know first-hand the realities of cancer and its impact on their lives and that of their families, friends and their community.

Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed said: “Al Jalila Foundation’s philanthropic medical initiatives have brought significant benefits to the community. Majlis Al Amal is one of the Foundation’s exceptional programmes that supports the physical and mental well-being of female cancer patients and survivors. It was very inspiring to meet and hear the incredible stories of some of the strong women who have found a sense of community and belonging in Majlis Al Amal. I look forward to the continued positive impact of the Foundation’s medical, education, support, and research programmes on people’s lives.”

Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg said: “Majlis Al Amal supports cancer patients and survivors as they navigate the disease and its challenges. A cancer diagnosis has significant impact psychologically and emotionally and knowing that ‘you are not alone’ and that there is a community to lean on has a huge impact on the wellbeing of patients and their loved ones. Al Jalila Foundation aims to provide a support network in a safe, nurturing environment to women coping with the disease. The centre aims to keep the message of hope alive and improve the wellbeing of women during a very difficult time in their life.”

Dr. Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Studies show that emotional support is integral in the healing journey and Majlis Al Amal provides a platform where women can speak openly about their fears, share experiences and lean on each other for comfort and support that they may otherwise not find outside of the ‘cancer community’.  When we established Majlis Al Amal we knew it would be a very special place for women but we never imagined how much our members would come to depend on their new ‘circle of hope’. We are inspired by their stories and it is a privilege for my team and I to be a small part of their journey.”

“All the services and activities are designed to inspire, nurture and support women as they navigate their cancer journey. We are proud to have created this unique, life-changing community service in the UAE for the first time,” concluded Dr. Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama.

Since inception in 2013, Al Jalila Foundation has extended AED10 million worth of support to 168 women with cancer unable to afford quality medical care, through its A’awen programme.  One in six patients supported by Al Jalila Foundation have cancer. With the rising incidence of cancer and the consequent need for charity support for patients, Al Jalila Foundation is establishing ‘Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital’, the first comprehensive cancer charity hospital in the UAE, which brings together leading experts to manage prevention, diagnosis and treatment under one roof. The hospital is set to open in 2026 with a vision to redefine cancer care in the region.

As a member of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), which aims to improve the Arab world through humanitarian, developmental and community work, Al Jalila Foundation has, since inception, provided life-saving aid, locally and internationally, contributing to MBRGI’s mission to improve human life.