ABU DHABI: In a powerful move to advance the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and redefine UAE’s global impact on philanthropy, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has launched Erth Zayed Philanthropies.
This new philanthropic organisation is positioned to consolidate and expand the UAE’s humanitarian reach, with an initial investment of $60 million (AED220 million) dedicated to supporting inclusive educational initiatives and fostering long-term, sustainable development globally.
The launch of Erth Zayed Philanthropies signals a new chapter in UAE’s philanthropic journey. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, the foundation aims to carry forward Sheikh Zayed’s commitment to humanity by overseeing a diverse array of global initiatives. These include constructing schools, supporting educational programs tailored to specific needs, and providing comprehensive resources for educators and students alike.
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, spoke on the foundation’s potential: “The launch of Erth Zayed Philanthropies is a testament to the UAE's ongoing commitment to amplifying its global philanthropic impact. It represents a strategic effort to bring together our humanitarian initiatives and philanthropic entities under one cohesive vision, enhancing their reach and effectiveness to deliver positive impact on a truly global scale."
Why Sheikh Zayed’s legacy matters
The spirit of philanthropy has always been central to the UAE’s identity, rooted deeply in the vision of the nation’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed. Through Erth Zayed Philanthropies, the UAE is dedicated to carrying on this legacy. This foundation seeks to make Sheikh Zayed's humanitarian values a global standard, aiming for community development that impacts education, health, food, water security, and climate sustainability.
Speaking about the UAE’s enduring commitment to humanitarian values, Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, said: “Philanthropy and the spirit of giving have long been central to the UAE’s identity and are deeply rooted in the enduring legacy of our Founding Father and the unwavering commitment of the UAE’s President. This dedication is focused on improving lives around the world, ensuring wellbeing, empowering individuals, and continuously striving to foster the prosperity, security, and stability of communities."
Which programmes will be overseen by Erth Zayed Philanthropies
Under its portfolio, Erth Zayed Philanthropies will manage and coordinate numerous significant projects, collaborating with both public and private sector entities. It will bring together various UAE philanthropic initiatives, including the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation, the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation, the Mohamed Bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund, and others.
These institutions will work under Erth Zayed’s guidance to maintain Sheikh Zayed's inclusive vision, serving communities worldwide through a shared and comprehensive approach to philanthropy.
Key initiatives include:
Education and Social Innovation: Through the establishment of new schools and educational programmes, Erth Zayed Philanthropies will work to make education accessible for students from all backgrounds, with specialised training and resources for educators to meet diverse learning needs.
Health and Wellbeing: Erth Zayed will support international health initiatives, emphasising global disease elimination, mental health support, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare services.
Sustainability and Climate Resilience: In an era of climate challenges, the foundation will prioritise sustainability, focusing on renewable energy projects and innovative approaches to water and food security.
How it reinforces UAE’s leadership in philanthropy
The foundation exemplifies UAE’s longstanding tradition of humanitarian assistance. As Sheikh Mansour explained, this initiative is a coordinated strategy aimed at multiplying the impact of UAE’s various philanthropic arms. It will operate under a unified vision to ensure that humanitarian projects reach communities worldwide in a meaningful and sustainable way, guided by values that Sheikh Zayed championed throughout his life.
Under the President’s leadership, Erth Zayed Philanthropies will advance the nation’s impact by creating opportunities for education, bolstering healthcare infrastructure, and fostering economic stability across nations. The foundation's overarching goal is to build self-reliant communities equipped with tools for sustainable growth.
When and where the work will begin
Erth Zayed Philanthropies has already initiated its work on various fronts. The foundation will focus its efforts on creating projects with immediate and long-lasting impacts, particularly in regions where access to education, healthcare, and essential services is most limited.
Following in the success of the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak School for the Blind in Addis Ababa, Erth Zayed Philanthropies is expected to launch similar institutions across diverse regions, creating inclusive educational opportunities that cater to unique student needs.
Through this endeavour, the UAE is set to leave a lasting mark, honouring its Founding Father’s legacy by creating a brighter future for generations to come.