Dh140m boost for Dubai’s Edge of Life as UAE philanthropists back global fight against child hunger
Campaign seeks Dh1 billion for sustainable nutrition programmes
DUBAI – In a major boost to the UAE’s flagship Ramadan humanitarian drive, two prominent philanthropists have pledged a combined Dh140 million to the Edge of Life campaign.
The Edge of Life campaign was launched by His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, with the goal of mobilising massive funds to combat childhood hunger globally.
The initiative aims to rescue five million children from hunger and acute malnutrition worldwide. Launched during the holy month, the campaign seeks to raise a minimum of Dh1 billion to fund long-term, sustainable nutrition programmes.
Dh100m pledge
In the presence of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, Hussain Sajwani announced a Dh100 million contribution through the Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Foundation. The pledge was formalised following the signing of an agreement between Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, and Sajwani, Founder and Chairman of DAMAC Properties.
Mohammad Al Gergawi described the partnership as a reflection of the UAE’s deeply rooted culture of giving, stressing the urgency of supporting children facing life-threatening hunger. Sajwani said the contribution aligns with the Foundation’s commitment to social responsibility and to supporting humanitarian initiatives launched by the UAE, particularly those focused on providing vital nutrition to underprivileged communities.
Dh40m support
A day earlier, Mohammed Juma Al Naboodah announced a Dh40 million contribution to the same campaign. His pledge forms part of what organisers described as a strong nationwide response from institutions and individuals.
Al Naboodah said supporting the campaign was an honour and underlined the importance of collective action to address one of the gravest global threats to children’s lives. He noted that the initiative, launched during Ramadan, reflects the UAE’s humanitarian vision and commitment to extending support to underserved populations worldwide.
Edge of Life
The campaign is being organised by MBRGI in partnership with UNICEF, Save the Children, Children's Investment Fund Foundation and Action Against Hunger.
Child hunger remains one of the most pressing global challenges. In 2025, 118 million children worldwide went hungry. Statistics show that one in four children under the age of five suffers from acute malnutrition, meaning 181 million children lack access to the minimum nutrition required for healthy growth.
The Edge of Life campaign continues to welcome donations through seven channels, including its website, a toll-free call centre on 800 4999, bank transfers via Emirates Islamic Bank, SMS contributions by texting “LIFE” to designated du and e& numbers, as well as the DubaiNow app, YallaGive.com and the Jood platform.