DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — A Dubai-based foundation has pledged AED100 million ($27 million) to a Ramadan campaign aimed at rescuing five million children from hunger, in one of the UAE’s largest private contributions to a global nutrition drive this year.
The donation by the Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Foundation was announced in the presence of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and follows the launch of the “Edge of Life” campaign by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the start of Ramadan.
The initiative, overseen by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), aims to raise at least AED1 billion to fund long-term, sustainable programmes tackling child hunger worldwide.
An agreement formalising the contribution was signed by MBRGI Secretary-General Mohammad Al Gergawi and Hussain Sajwani, founder of DAMAC Properties. Organisers say the campaign will work with international partners including UNICEF, Save the Children, Children’s Investment Fund Foundation and Action Against Hunger.
Al Gergawi described the campaign as part of Dubai’s broader humanitarian vision, urging businesses and individuals across the UAE to contribute. Sajwani said the foundation’s pledge reflects a commitment to social responsibility and to supporting initiatives that provide life-saving nutrition to vulnerable children.
The campaign comes against a stark global backdrop. An estimated 118 million children faced hunger in 2025, while around one in four children under five suffer from acute malnutrition, according to campaign figures.
Donations are being accepted through multiple channels, including the campaign website, a toll-free hotline, bank transfers and digital platforms, in an effort to mobilise support across the UAE during the holy month.
The initiative reinforces the Gulf state’s longstanding emphasis on humanitarian aid, positioning Ramadan not only as a time of reflection but also as a platform for large-scale charitable mobilisation.