His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan announced the launch of a new initiative focused on supporting those in need in various countries worldwide. The charity will be allocated approximately AED 20B (USD 5.45B) in funds.
Named the Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative, this new project is dedicated to the memory of the Emirates' founder and the father of the current ruler, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The launch of the initiative coincides with the 20th anniversary of the first UAE president's passing and Zayed Humanitarian Day, which is celebrated annually on the 19th day of Ramadan.
This humanitarian aid continues the traditions of expressing compassion and providing help to the needy, a favourite pastime of the UAE's founding father. During his 33-year reign, the first president of the UAE gave assistance to more than 100 countries, totalling an impressive AED 90.5B (USD 24.6B). Under his leadership, the Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation was established in 1992.
The UAE continues to develop these traditions of philanthropy, offering aid to Palestinians affected by conflict in the Gaza Strip. At the beginning of Ramadan, the Mothers' Endowment campaign was launched. Within two weeks, the educational foundation to aid needy families worldwide, founded by Vice President and Ruler of Dubai Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, raised AED 770M (USD 209.6M).