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.

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 healthcare philanthropic organization leading Dubai Health’s giving mission is transforming support for people of determination through its Ta’alouf program. Established over 11 years ago, the Ta’alouf program is the foundation’s flagship education program that works with parents, educators, other caregivers, and the wider community to empower people of determination (POD) and support their inclusion in education and society through training workshops and activities. The program is generally delivered in Arabic and English and offered free of charge.

Launched in 2013, the Ta’alouf Parents Training Program has equipped parents and caretakers with the knowledge and skills to effectively respond to the POD’s needs. To date, the program has had 22 cohorts, with 1098 parents and caregivers graduating from the program, representing 36 nationalities residing in all seven Emirates. These parents care for children facing diverse challenges, including Down syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), mental delay, and others.

Ta’alouf’s second program is the Teachers Training Program, in which primary teachers and principals from public and private schools in the UAE are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to better understand each student’s individual learning needs and further broaden their understanding of inclusive education best practices. Launched in 2014, the program runs for one academic year, is fully sponsored by Al Jalila Foundation, and is delivered by Zayed University, one of the leading universities in the region. The course is also endorsed by the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA).

The curriculum has developed further over time, creating a significant impact on the lives of educators, parents, and above all – children of determination. To date, 680 teachers representing 46 nationalities from 70 public schools and 60 private schools have successfully graduated from the Teachers Training program.

Commenting on the program’s success, Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation said “The Ta’alouf program is rooted in the principles of inclusion, acceptance and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of people of determination. By empowering educators, parents and caregivers, we aim to inspire positive action, cultivate a culture of hope and improve their quality of life. We are also glad to see the program’s results providing a stable foundation for an inclusive society in the UAE.”

Fr. Suresh Kumar, Principal of St. Mary’s Catholic High School, Fujairah, has noticed a marked improvement in the school after sending teachers to the one-year program. He commented, “Through the Al Jalila Foundation’s Ta’alouf Teachers Training program, the teachers at St. Mary’s Catholic High School, Fujairah, have been able to adapt their approach to special education within their classrooms. The teachers have been able to assist in early identification and subsequently suggest and implement strategies to support these children to reach their highest potential. As a result, the school continually progresses towards the goal of being an inclusive learning environment. We are excited to continue our partnership with Al Jalila Foundation and increase our capacity for inclusion.”

‘Ta’alouf’ meaning ‘harmony’ in Arabic, encapsulates the spirit of togetherness with strategic partners, parents, educators, and the wider community to empower people of determination. The program’s success throughout the years has inspired the Al Jalila Foundation to examine further ways of enhancing and developing the potential of people of determination. Consequently, the Ta’alouf Talent Scout program was established in 2022 to empower people of determination with intellectual disabilities (such as Down syndrome, Autism and others) by nurturing their talents and strengths, and inspiring them to pursue meaningful life opportunities in education and society.

To date, 124 People of Determination have participated in different Ta’alouf events and initiatives. Additionally, to date, 512 initiatives have been implemented in private and government schools across the UAE to promote and support the inclusion of students of determination.