Al Jalila Foundation supported 13 strategic healthcare initiatives and reached 9,737 beneficiaries across the community in 2025 through its programmes in care, learning, discovery, and community engagement, with donor contributions reaching AED435 million.

Al Jalila Foundation plays a vital role in enabling Dubai Health’s vision to advance health for humanity through the integration of Care, Learning, Discovery, and Giving. It also transforms the generosity of donors into tangible outcomes that create meaningful and lasting impact across the community.

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors and Member of Dubai Health Board of Directors, said: “The achievements of Al Jalila Foundation in 2025 reflect the trust our donors and partners continue to place in our mission, as well as the impact of their contributions in advancing health for humanity. This generosity is the driving force for advancing patient care, accelerating research, and supporting education. As we look to the future, our commitment remains steadfast in fostering a culture of giving that places people at the heart of progress.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer of Al Jalila Foundation, said: “We are proud of the progress we achieved during 2025, which reflects our commitment to advancing health for humanity, and the impact of generosity across our community. The year 2025 also held special significance, as our efforts aligned with the UAE’s Year of Community, celebrating the spirit of solidarity, shared responsibility, and collective contribution that defines our society.”

He added: “We extend our sincere gratitude to our partners in giving, whose generosity continues to strengthen the sustainability of our programmes and deepen our impact. Their support enables us to expand access to essential care, accelerate medical innovation, and empower the next generation of healthcare professionals, helping us build a healthier and more sustainable future for our communities.”

Care, Learning, and Community Programmes
Al Jalila Foundation provided comprehensive healthcare support to 3,628 patients over the past year through its programmes, including The Child Fund, which offers essential medical support to children, and A’awen, which provides medical assistance to UAE-based patients.

In line with its commitment to supporting Dubai Health’s Learning and Discovery missions, Al Jalila Foundation awarded 44 scholarships to students in 2025, alongside 24 research grants focused on priority areas including cancer, allergies, and infectious diseases. Supported research led to 15 peer-reviewed publications, four PhD and master’s theses, 67 conference presentations, and 69 training opportunities.

In community engagement, Al Jalila Foundation reached 6,041 beneficiaries through its programmes. This included 2,209 individuals supported through the Ta’alouf Programme, which empowers people of determination and their caregivers. A further 3,532 individuals benefited from the community-driven Wellness on Wheels mobile clinics offering screening and diagnostic services. In addition, 300 new members joined Majlis Al Amal, a first of its kind community centre in the UAE dedicated to female cancer patients and their wellbeing.

Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital
A key reflection of donors’ generosity is Dubai Health’s Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, which spans 59,000 m² and is designed according to environmentally sustainable principles to provide a full spectrum of care services in one location, from early diagnosis to treatment and supportive care. The hospital is set to serve as a centre of excellence for cancer treatment and research in the region.

13 strategic initiatives through ‘The Hope Fund’
Al Jalila Foundation continues to advance healthcare innovation through a series of strategic projects that support the development of Dubai Health’s facilities and expand their capacity. These 13 strategic projects include speciality and diagnostic units, residential endowments, and innovation centres.

Sustained generosity
Throughout 2025, Al Jalila Foundation continued to bring its philanthropic mission to life through a series of impactful events that engaged donors and partners and contributed to lasting community impact. These included The Evening of Hope, Pioneers of Giving, and The Hope Run. The Foundation also continued to roll out its initiatives in line with the Year of the Family, reinforcing its role in advancing health for humanity and supporting quality of life.

Read the Al Jalila Foundation Impact Report 2025

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Cycle Against Cancer has announced an endurance cycling challenge spanning 3,333 kilometres and over 54,000 metres of elevation from Barcelona to Paris beginning 1 July 2026. The initiative will bring together 13 riders for a 25-days journey across Spain and France to raise awareness and vital funds for Al Jalila Foundation, which plays a vital role in enabling Dubai Health’s vision to advance health for humanity through the integration of Care, Learning, Discovery, and Giving.

Departing from Barcelona on 1 July 2026, the route is a physically demanding long-distance cycling journey designed to test endurance, resilience, and teamwork, the challenge reflects the scale of what the riders aim to achieve: proving that even the most difficult battles can be faced and overcome, while spreading hope to those impacted by cancer.

At its core, Cycle Against Cancer is about people: riders, survivors, families, caregivers, and supporters connected through lived experience. The team includes cancer survivors, business leaders, and members of the UAE cycling community, many riding in honour of loved ones affected by the disease.

At the heart of the initiative is founder Guido De Wilde, a stage 4 colon cancer survivor and long-standing supporter of Al Jalila Foundation. Now 68, Guido’s journey is one of resilience and purpose. Having previously raised significant funds for cancer patients, he returns with this challenge to inspire others and demonstrate that life after cancer can be lived with strength and meaning.

“I started Cycle Against Cancer to give people hope, especially those who are told there is none,” said Guido De Wilde. “Cancer affects families everywhere. This initiative exists to transform endurance into action and to remind people that support, strength, and hope remain within reach.”

The initiative aims to raise vital funds for Al Jalila Foundation to support cancer care programmes and amplify impact across the UAE. Dr Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, said:

“At Al Jalila Foundation, we support initiatives that translate awareness into tangible impact and advance health for humanity. Cycle Against Cancer demonstrates how community solidarity and shared purpose can drive meaningful support for patients, research, and access to care.”

While each rider brings a personal story to the challenge, the team moves forward together, supporting one another through training, preparation, and the mental and physical demands of the journey ahead.

To learn more, visit Cycle Against Cancer’s official website

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Dubai Health has inaugurated the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU) at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital. Established through Al Jalila Foundation’s The Hope Fund, the unit was developed with the generous support of Mr. Mohamed Saleh Abdulla, whose name is inscribed on the hospital’s Giving Wall.

The inauguration was attended by His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU); Dr. Abdulla Al Khayat, CEO Emeritus of Al Jalila Children’s Hospital; Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation; Dr. Tarek Fathey, Chief Clinical Officer, and Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, Executive Director of the Women and Children’s Campus.

The Pediatric Cardiology service at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital performs around 200 pediatric cardiac surgeries annually, in addition to more than 300 cardiac catheterizations procedures, reinforcing Dubai Health’s ability to deliver comprehensive, specialized care for various cardiac conditions.

The new unit reflects Dubai Health’s “Children First” commitment by advancing pediatric cardiac care. Aligned with a patient- and family-centered model, the unit also enables parents to remain close to their children, with comfortable beds provided beside each patient bed and a dedicated family area offering a welcoming space for relatives.

Mr. Mohamed Saleh Abdulla said: “Supporting children’s health is an investment in the wellbeing of future generations. We are honored to contribute to this unit, as community partnerships play an important role in expanding specialized services and ensuring patients receive the care they need. We hope this initiative will support Al Jalila Children’s Hospital in continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young patients and their families.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, said: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we continue to work closely with our partners to launch and implement programs and initiatives that make a meaningful difference.

These efforts contribute to supporting the healthcare ecosystem and expanding access to advanced care, ultimately improving health outcomes and quality of life for our patients and the wider community.”

Delivering advanced, multidisciplinary care

Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi said: “The addition of the ten-bed Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit further strengthens the continuum of cardiac care available to children at Al Jalila Children’s Hospital. By bringing together specialized expertise and advanced clinical capabilities, we are able to provide comprehensive care for children while supporting families throughout their journey.”

The Hope Fund

Launched by Al Jalila Foundation, The Hope Fund is a flagship initiative that supports the development of Dubai Health facilities and expands access to advanced services that meet the evolving needs of the community. Through the contributions of partners, the Fund enables sustainable impact that strengthens Dubai’s healthcare system and improves patient outcomes.

Dubai Health has announced a 46% increase in kidney transplant procedures in 2025, reflecting growing community awareness of organ donation. The procedures were carried out as part of The National Programme for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissue ‘Hayat’.

The announcement coincides with World Kidney Day, observed annually on 12 March. According to the latest figures, Dubai Health physicians performed 73 successful kidney transplants in 2025, compared with 50 procedures in 2024.

Through its integrated academic health system, Dubai Health supports organ transplantation efforts in collaboration with several federal, local, and private entities, including the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), Dubai Health Authority, Dubai Healthcare City Authority, Dubai Airports, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS), the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, Dubai Customs, Dubai Police General Headquarters, Dubai Public Prosecution, Mediclinic City Hospital, as well as several private sector hospitals. This collaboration reflects a coordinated national effort to strengthen organ donation and transplantation programmes across the UAE.

Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, Executive Director of the Dubai Health Women and Children’s Campus, and Chair of the Dubai Health Organ Donation and Transplantation Committee, said: “The increase in kidney transplant procedures during 2025 reflects the UAE’s continued progress in driving awareness of organ donation, supported by the national efforts led by The National Programme for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissue ‘Hayat’, and the effective collaboration among healthcare entities across the country.”

He added: “At Dubai Health, we operate through an integrated academic health system that brings together care, learning, discovery, and giving. This approach enables us to advance organ transplant programmes in line with the highest international medical standards, while also developing specialised medical professionals and strengthening coordination with healthcare entities and strategic partners to expand transplant services and improve patient access to essential treatments.”

Nujood AlKhloofi, Senior Director of the Organ Donation and Transplantation Program at Dubai Health, said: “The continued growth of Dubai’s kidney transplant programme reflects the success of national efforts to promote organ donation and transplantation in the UAE, helping save the lives of many patients and improving their quality of life.”

She added: “As part of Dubai Health’s commitment to supporting organ donation initiatives, qualified coordinators have been assigned to manage the donation process and ensure procedures are conducted efficiently. Their capabilities have also been strengthened through hands-on training programmes, in addition to participation in conferences and workshops.”

Supporting Patients
Maha Al Taher, Clinical Transplant Coordinator at Dubai Health, explained that the work of transplant coordinators combines both clinical expertise and compassionate patient support. Coordinators stay with patients and their families throughout the treatment journey, manage medical records, and coordinate with medical teams. This ensures that required evaluations, tests, and appointments are completed seamlessly, enabling patients to be placed on transplant waiting lists in accordance with the highest standards of safety.

Dhai Abdulla Binjarn, Clinical Transplant Coordinator at Dubai Health, said that the transplant coordinator’s role begins with identifying eligible cases and providing initial awareness and counselling to the patients and families. This is then followed by medical, social, and financial assessments, ensuring comprehensive support through every step of the journey.

Abdalazeez Alghraizat, Clinical Pediatric Transplant Coordinator at Dubai Health, emphasised that the coordinator plays a critical role in paediatric transplant care by closely monitoring children’s medical conditions, coordinating with the clinical teams, and supporting families.

Community Initiatives
Through its community initiatives, Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, supports the kidney transplant programme by providing financial assistance to patients who cannot afford treatment. The Foundation launched the ‘Your Donation Saves Lives’ programme, which drives funding for transplants, alongside several care programmes.

Educational Programmes
The Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), the learning and discovery arm of Dubai Health, contributes to advancing organ transplantation through specialised education and training programmes that equip medical professionals with the relevant expertise. These include the Adult Nephrology Fellowship Program and a training programme on ‘Core Skills in Organ Donation’. The University is also conducting scientific studies and research to further advance best practices in organ transplantation.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dubai Health, honoured partners and donors supporting The Hope Fund projects, an initiative by Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health. Held in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dubai Health, the ceremony celebrated donors whose contributions enhanced medical treatment programmes and services at Dubai Hospital.

Contributions received under The Hope Fund have supported medical facility readiness and improved patient experiences while highlighting the UAE’s enduring humanitarian values and commitment to social responsibility.

Sustainable impact

Launched by Al Jalila Foundation, The Hope Fund is a flagship initiative that supports the development of Dubai Health facilities and expands access to advanced medical services aligned with community needs. Partner contributions have played a central role in delivering sustainable impact and reinforcing Dubai’s commitment to healthcare excellence.

The event was attended by His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Director General of HH The Dubai Ruler’s Court and Chairman of DIB; Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation’s Board of Directors and Member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors; His Excellency Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority; His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU); and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation; alongside partners and donors whose names are inscribed on Dubai Hospital’s Giving Wall.

Strategic partnerships

His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani said that DIB’s support for the Heart Care Pavilion at Dubai Hospital, delivered through a strategic partnership with Al Jalila Foundation, reflects the bank’s institutional commitment to social responsibility and long-term community value. Such partnerships provide an effective model for aligning national efforts and directing support towards priorities that strengthen specialised healthcare capacity while enhancing quality of life and community wellbeing. The Pavilion includes 29 rooms with a total capacity of 42 beds, providing integrated services in cardiology and cardiac surgery.

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg said that the development of new departments and wards at Dubai Hospital reflects the power of giving and its capacity to foster a culture of social responsibility within the community. She noted that partnerships with individuals and institutional donors remain a key driver in enabling the healthcare system to evolve in line with international best practices and future demand.

Shared purpose

Her Excellency Dr. Amina Al Rostamani, Board Member of the AW Rostamani Group and Member of Al Jalila Foundation’s Board of Directors, said: “We believe that uniting efforts  around a shared purpose can drive lasting impact in healthcare, reflecting Al Jalila Foundation’s mission to embed a spirit of giving that supports better health outcomes.”

Farid Al Mulla, CEO of Emirates Islamic, said: “We are proud of our role as a strategic partner in supporting Al Jalila Foundation’s humanitarian initiatives. Our contribution to the renovation of Dubai Hospital facilities reflects our commitment to corporate social responsibility and humanitarian values that define our community. We remain committed to supporting healthcare services, helping provide an advanced care environment.”

Emirates Islamic contributed to the development of two inpatient care wards at the hospital. The first includes 16 rooms offering a capacity of 18 beds, while the second includes 30 rooms with a total of 38 beds, expanding capacity and supporting the quality of patient care.

Khalaf Ahmed Al Habtoor, CEO of Al Habtoor Motors, said: “Our support for Al Jalila Foundation reflects our commitment to supporting the healthcare sector in the UAE and to elevating healthcare standards and serving patients in need. We are also proud that our contribution was made through the Mohammed Khalifa Al Suwaidi Fund in honour of his legacy.”

The financial pledge included the renovation of the Kidney Care Pavilion, which features 15 single rooms and 13 shared rooms, with a total capacity of 41 beds, providing specialised services in nephrology and urology.

Dr. Omar Al Marzouqi, Executive Director of Dubai Hospital, stated that the support provided by partners and donors will directly contribute to advancing the hospital’s clinical care system by providing an integrated environment that supports patient safety and accelerates the treatment journey, improving health outcomes and elevating the patient experience across every stage of care.

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His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, launched ‘The Cancer Fund’ of Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors.

His Highness also unveiled ‘The Giving Wall’ at Dubai Hospital, which bears the names of donors who have supported its treatment programmes, in recognition of their generosity.

The Cancer Fund aims to provide vital support for cancer treatment, helping ease the financial burden on patients and ensuring they can continue their care throughout recovery.

The launch of The Cancer Fund took place during a ceremony hosted by Al Jalila Foundation at Dubai Hospital, where His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum honoured partners, donors, and supporters of the hospital’s treatment programmes.

The ceremony was attended by His Excellency Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shaibani, Director General of H.H. the Dubai Ruler’s Court; Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Member of Dubai Health Board of Directors and Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors; His Excellency Dr. Alawi AlSheikh-Ali, Director General of Dubai Health Authority; His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), and other senior officials.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed stated: “Giving is a deeply rooted value in the UAE instilled by our Founding Fathers and our leadership continues to build on this legacy through initiatives that place people’s health and wellbeing at the heart of national priorities.”

His Highness praised the individuals and institutions whose generosity strengthens community philanthropic efforts, noting that the strong engagement generated by such programmes reflects a shared national commitment to supporting people and enhancing quality of life.

Strategic step
Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg said: “The Cancer Fund marks a strategic step towards building a sustainable support system for patients.”

She added: “The Fund also reflects a forward-looking model of collaboration, with community and institutional giving play a central role in strengthening our healthcare system and expanding its impact on patients’ lives. We believe that sustainable philanthropy is essential to building a more cohesive society, where collective efforts come together to shape a better future for all.”

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni said: “Dedicating this year’s Ramadan campaign to Al Jalila Foundation’s The Cancer Fund will expand support pathways available to cancer patients. It reflects the role of community giving in helping patients access timely treatment, in line with Dubai Health’s ‘Patient First’ promise.”

He added: “The generosity of donors enabled us to provide care to 650 cancer patients over the past year, with contributions exceeding AED43 million through the ‘A’awen’ programme.

Al Jalila Foundation encourages individuals and organisations to support the Ramadan 2026 campaign through its donation channels, emphasising that every contribution makes a difference for patients and their families by helping them access treatment.

Reinforcing its long-standing commitment to community health and family wellbeing, Landmark Group successfully hosted the 16^th edition of its flagship Beat Diabetes Family Event at Za’abeel Park, bringing together more than 17,500 participants in one of the UAE’s largest family-focused wellness initiatives.

Held under the theme ‘Step into a Healthier Tomorrow’, the event formed part of the UAE’s ‘Year of Family’ agenda, aligning closely with national priorities around diabetes awareness, prevention, early detection, and the promotion of active and healthy lifestyles across generations.

The annual event continues to serve as a cornerstone of Landmark Group’s Beat Diabetes programme, offering an inclusive platform that combines education, physical activity, and community engagement. With the Middle East among the regions most affected by diabetes, this year’s edition placed particular emphasis on the pivotal role families play in shaping long-term health outcomes.

High-Level Participation Reflects Strong Public-Private Collaboration
The event was inaugurated by Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman, Landmark Group, alongside His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council (DSC), and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer, Al Jalila Foundation – the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, in the presence of members of Landmark Group leadership, alongside Lions Clubs International Middle East as CSR Volunteering Partner and GEMS Education as School Partner, and representatives from government entities, healthcare partners, schools, corporate organisations. Their participation underscored the collective community commitment to embedding healthier habits within everyday life.

His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council (DSC), said: “The Dubai Sports Council has proudly partnered with Landmark Group on the Beat Diabetes Family Event for several years, and we are pleased to see it grow into one of Dubai’s most impactful community wellness initiatives, bringing people together around a shared purpose. In the Year of Family, initiatives such as this play a vital role in promoting physical activity and healthy living as essential foundations for a stronger, healthier, and more resilient society.”

Engaging the Next Generation Through Education and Creativity
As part of Landmark Group’s continued focus on youth engagement, the Superkidz Programme – an integral component of the Beat Diabetes initiative – once again played a central role at the event, in collaboration with GEMS Education for the second-year running.

The Superkidz Writing Competition engaged students from 15 GEMS schools across Grades 4 and 5, encouraging them to explore themes of healthy living through storytelling and creative expression. Winners were announced during the event, celebrating young voices while reinforcing positive health messages and inspiring healthier lifestyles among future generations.

Rewarding Commitment
Commenting on the success of the event, Nisha Jagtiani, Group Director, Landmark Group, said: “The response to this year’s Beat Diabetes Family Event has been truly inspiring. Seeing families, children, and People of Determination come together in such numbers reflects how deeply this initiative resonates with the community.

As we mark our 16^th edition during the UAE’s Year of Family, our focus remains on empowering families, encouraging early awareness, and working closely with our partners to build healthier futures for generations to come.”

Comprehensive Health, Fitness, and Family Activities
The customary 2-kilometre community walk once again served as the centrepiece of the event, followed by a wide range of fitness, sports, and educational activities designed for all age groups.

Participants benefited from free blood glucose testing and health screenings, vaccinations and nutrition consultations, delivered in partnership with Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health and Emirates Health Services, reinforcing the event’s holistic approach to diabetes prevention and wellbeing, in addition family-friendly fitness sessions and sports challenges, an expanded Family Zone, and live entertainment.

Sustained Impact Through Long-Term Partnerships
Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Chief Executive Officer, Al Jalila Foundation, said: “Our long-standing partnership with the Landmark Group reflects a shared commitment to advancing health for humanity by building health awareness and encouraging meaningful community engagement. We believe that prevention and early detection are fundamental to improving long-term health outcomes, particularly when awareness is translated into practical actions that make a real difference for families across the UAE.”

Since its launch in 2009, Beat Diabetes has evolved into a national movement, engaging more than 165,000 participants across the region and championing a simple yet powerful message: Take the Test. Eat Healthy. Get Active.

All proceeds from the 2026 event, including registration fees and in-store donations collected across Landmark Group’s participating brands, will be directed to Al Jalila Foundation to support diabetes research, treatment, and patient care.

As the initiative continues to grow, Landmark Group remains firmly positioned as a leading advocate for prevention of diabetes, awareness, and community wellbeing—reinforcing its role as a catalyst for positive social impact in the Year of the Family and beyond.

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A delegation from the Dubai Sports Council visited Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, to learn about its sports philanthropy initiatives and discuss areas of collaboration.

The delegation was led by His Excellency Khalfan Juma Belhoul, accompanied by His Excellency Saeed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council, and other officials. They were welcomed by His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences; Dr. Hanan Al Suwaidi, Deputy CEO and Chief Academic Officer of Dubai Health and Provost of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences; Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, Executive Director of the Dubai Health Women and Children’s Campus; Khalifa Baqer, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Health, and Shamma Alrafi, Acting CEO of Al Jalila Foundation.

During the visit, His Excellency Khalfan Juma Belhoul learned about Al Jalila Foundation’s sports philanthropy initiatives and met with the Foundation’s “Champions of Hope” team, a group of athletes who leverage sports for humanitarian giving.

To date, the philanthropic sports initiatives have raised AED 15 million through more than 450 community and partner-led activities, with 100% of proceeds directly supporting Al Jalila Foundation’s programs.

His Excellency Khalfan Juma Belhoul, said: “The Dubai Sports Council is committed to supporting all national efforts and charitable initiatives that aim to enhance the wellbeing, health, and active lifestyles of our community. We see this commitment embodied in the ‘Champions of Hope’ initiative, an inspiring model that harnesses the power of sport and the positive influence of athletes to spread values of generosity and compassion across the community.

His Excellency Dr. Amer Sharif said: “We are honored to welcome His Excellency Khalfan Juma Belhoul and the accompanying delegation, whose visit reflects our commitment to Advancing Health for Humanity.”

He added: “We deeply appreciate the Dubai Sports Council and the athletes, whose dedication and spirit inspire a culture of giving and create a meaningful impact on the community.”

His Excellency Khalfan Juma Belhoul met the “Champions of Hope” team, which included several inspiring athletes: Yahya Al Ghassani, UAE National Football Team player and founder of YA10 Academy; Ghani Souleymane, endurance athlete and Guinness World Record holder for the T100x100 challenge; Mustafa Kaan Yildiz, swimmer and junior coach at Heroes of Hope; Coach Dan Cordero, endurance cyclist and founder of LifeSpark Cycling; Keisha Pais, open-water swimmer who completed the 15-kilometre Bonifacio Strait swim from Italy to France; Ahmed El-Shennawy, member of the inaugural Team Al Jalila Kilimanjaro charity climb and leader of the Himalayan Charity Challenge; Essam Adams, the founder of “Run 4 A Purpose” running club; and Aarti Shah, an Athlete of Determination and member of Heroes of Hope.

The visit also featured the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with YA10 Academy, a sports academy founded by professional Emirati footballer Yahya Al Ghassani that supports emerging football talent.

Yahya Al Ghassani said: “Through this partnership, YA10 Academy and Al Jalila Foundation will unite sports with philanthropy through athlete engagement and community challenges designed to raise awareness and funds for patient care. It embeds a culture of giving into the academy’s calendar, transforming every training session, match, and milestone into an opportunity for fans to support life-changing healthcare programs”.

Shamma Alrafi said: “For over a decade, we have seen how sports can go beyond the game to drive real change. By combining athletic spirit with charitable initiatives, we can support patients in need and inspire the community, showing how Dubai leads in using sports as a force for good.”

ENOC Group, a leading integrated global energy player, has signed a donation agreement with Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, to contribute AED 50 million toward the construction and development of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai’s first fully integrated and comprehensive cancer care facility.

This contribution reiterates the Group’s commitment to supporting the communities it operates in to enhance social, health and economic development programmes in line with the UAE’s ‘Year of Community’, which encourages impactful contributions to society.

The agreement was signed by Hussain Sultan Lootah, Acting CEO of ENOC Group, and Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, Chairperson of the Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors, and Chair of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital Steering Committee.

The signing ceremony was attended by Dr. Tarek Fathy, Chief Clinical Officer at Dubai Health; and Dr. Mohamed Al Awadhi, Executive Director of the Dubai Health Women and Children’s Campus, and Shamma Al Rafi, Director of Fundraising at Al Jalila Foundation along with senior executives from both entities.

Commenting on this contribution, Hussain Sultan Lootah, Acting CEO of ENOC Group, said: “At ENOC, we are deeply committed to forging long-standing partnerships that focus on achieving social, environmental and economic wellbeing that add value to the communities we operate in. Our timely investment, during the Year of Community, towards Dubai Health’s Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital will contribute significantly to creating a healthy environment while reinforcing the power of collective giving to build a healthier, more compassionate society.”

Her Excellency Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Member of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, Chairperson of the Al Jalila Foundation Board of Directors, and Chair of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital Steering Committee, said: “We are grateful to ENOC for this generous contribution in supporting the construction of the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital. This partnership reflects the vital role national companies play in fostering a culture of social responsibility, and stands as a leading example of institutional collaboration that supports our vision to advance health for humanity.”

This initiative reaffirms ENOC’s leadership in corporate social responsibility and its dedication to creating lasting, sustainable impact. By supporting programmes that directly enhance community wellbeing, the Group continues to play a vital role in building a more inclusive and healthier future for all.

In the lead-up to World Diabetes Day, Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, in partnership with Landmark Group through its CSR flagship Beat Diabetes programme, and in collaboration with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFA), has launched a long-term, comprehensive health and wellness initiative dedicated to blue-collar workers, which kicked off its activities at a labour camp in Dubai’s Al Quoz area.

This groundbreaking initiative began with a two-day screening campaign in Al Quoz, held on November 4 and 5, 2025, aimed to raise awareness about diabetes, and provide free medical screening for over 200 workers, covering blood sugar, blood pressure, and BMI as part of a wider effort to promote early detection and preventive care within UAE’s labour communities.

The charitable community-driven mobile clinic, “Wellness on Wheels”, provided free on-site medical screening, preventive advice and consultations, while volunteers from Lions Clubs International – Middle East supported the initiative with on-ground logistics. Each participant also received a healthy snack box from VIVA, Landmark Group’s discount grocer, reinforcing messages around balanced nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices on a budget.

Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation said: “At Al Jalila Foundation, we believe that access to healthcare is a fundamental right for everyone. Through initiatives like Wellness on Wheels, we are taking healthcare directly to those who need it most, providing them with knowledge, early diagnosis, and ongoing support. Our partnership with Landmark Group reflects the power of collective action in advancing health and wellbeing, and we are proud to extend compassionate care to diverse community groups.”

Nisha Jagtiani, Group Director – Landmark Group, said: “At Landmark, we’ve been deeply committed to community health through our Beat Diabetes initiative for over 15 years, reaching millions across the region. Through this partnership with Al Jalila Foundation, we are extending our reach to the workers who form the backbone of our nation’s progress extending to the long-term treatment for those identified as being diabetic.”

She added: “Early screening and education are critical to preventing, treating and managing diabetes, and this programme reflects our long-term commitment to fostering a healthier, more informed community to battle the prevalence of this disease.”

The programme’s on-site setup featured a waiting area with educational sessions on diabetes prevention, supported by awareness flyers and installations to ensure an engaging environment.

This partnership marks the launch of a long-term health & wellness outreach programme dedicated to blue collar workers. It reflects a shared vision to improve public health outcomes through preventive education, early detection, and accessible care.

Since its inception in 2009, Landmark Group’s Beat Diabetes programme has empowered communities across the GCC and India through awareness campaigns, free health screenings, and treatment in partnerships with leading healthcare institutions. Each year, the programme reaffirms its commitment to the UAE’s National Diabetes and Wellbeing strategies, reaching new communities with compassion, care, and action.