Abu Dhabi launches ‘Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans’ initiative

The Endowments and Minors’ Funds Authority – Awqaf Abu Dhabi has launched the Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans, a new initiative designed to create a long-term, sustainable funding stream to support orphan care across the United Arab Emirates, WAM reported.

Announced under the patronage of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the initiative aims to improve the quality of life of orphaned children by ensuring consistent support for their education, healthcare, living expenses and seasonal needs. It also promotes the use of endowments as a mechanism for community development and social solidarity.

The program introduces an endowment-based model that transforms one-time donations into a lasting source of funding, ensuring continuity of care and long-term impact. Awqaf Abu Dhabi said the initiative reflects a broader effort to embed sustainable giving within society and strengthen collective responsibility for vulnerable groups.

Launched on February 18, 2026, the campaign draws inspiration from the humanitarian legacy of the UAE’s founding leader, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose policies established philanthropy and social welfare as national priorities.

The initiative also reflects the values long associated with Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, widely known as the “Mother of the Nation,” whose work has focused on family welfare, social cohesion and the protection of children.

Awqaf Abu Dhabi said the endowment aligns with the UAE’s wider humanitarian strategy and national development goals, reinforcing the country’s role as an internationally recognized center for charitable and social initiatives.

The authority noted that proceeds from the endowment will be distributed across multiple areas of need to ensure comprehensive and continuous support for beneficiaries.

Awqaf Abu Dhabi has previously led large-scale social campaigns, including the Life Endowment initiative, which raised nearly AED 1 billion within four weeks and attracted contributions from more than 200,000 donors, underscoring strong public engagement in sustainable giving across the United Arab Emirates.