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Gulf Today
18-03-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
UAE's Dhs2.2b charity projects benefitted 149m people in 118 countries, says Sheikh Mohammed
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the results of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) Year In Review report for 2024. During the past year, MBRGI, the largest humanitarian and aid organisation of its kind in the region, spent a total of Dhs2.2 billion on projects that positively impacted the lives of 149 million people in 118 countries around the world. The announcement of MBRGI's Year in Review took place during a special ceremony held on Tuesday at the Dubai World Trade Centre, attended by Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives; Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council; Sheikha Latifa Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, along with a number of ministers and officials. The ceremony showcased MBRGI's accomplishments in 2024 and previous years, presented updates on the progress of this year's Fathers' Endowment campaign and honoured its partners and major contributors. The ceremony was preceded by a meeting of MBRGI's Board of Trustees at the DWTC, chaired by Sheikh Mohammed. Deep commitment Sheikh Mohammed said: 'Today, I chaired a meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, where we reviewed last year's results. MBRGI spent a total of Dhs2.2 billion on various relief, health, education, and community development programmes, benefiting 149 million people in 118 countries. I met with the humanitarian team of 975 employees, supported by over 170,000 volunteers. Our humanitarian work continues, and the UAE remains committed to extending support globally. We are grateful for this opportunity and pray for continued blessings as we assist nations worldwide.' Sheikh Mohammed added: 'We conclude a year of hope-making and anticipate another, even more impactful year, creating a lasting legacy of positive change. Whether it is saving lives, providing education, empowering women, fostering innovation, or alleviating poverty, these actions embody our values and principles. This is our enduring legacy.' Sheikh Mohammed concluded: 'We will persevere tirelessly in our service to humanity. Our flame of hope will remain lit.' More than a charity organisation Sheikh Hamdan affirmed that since its establishment in 2015, the MBRGI has evolved into more than just a charitable organisation. It had moved beyond immediate humanitarian action, relief, and charity work to encompass the comprehensive and fundamental rebuilding, rehabilitation, and empowerment of individuals and communities. This is driven by a vision focused on improving overall quality of life, supporting sustainable development, finding innovative and long-term solutions to humanity's challenges, and eradicating the root causes of issues hindering development, such as poverty and disease. Sheikh Hamdan said: 'The year 2024 marked significant milestones in MBRGI's journey, with over Dhs2.2 billion spent on various high-quality projects and initiatives, both new and ongoing. This investment has enhanced tangible results on the ground and broadened its reach. Among the most prominent milestones was Sheikh Mohammed's launch of the 'Mother's Endowment Campaign' to honour mothers in the UAE. This campaign established a one-billion-dirham endowment fund to support the education of millions worldwide, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to navigate life successfully.' '2024 also witnessed the launch of the tallest endowment tower in the UAE, valued at Dhs800 million, as part of the 1 Billion Meals Endowment' campaign, the largest of its kind to combat global hunger. The tower aims to contribute to a sustainable food security system for millions. Furthermore, the foundation stone was laid for the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, the largest and first of its kind in Dubai, providing free cancer treatment. This hospital will be a valuable addition to the medical landscape in Dubai and the UAE,' he further said. 'These projects, among others, represent just a fraction of the initiatives under MBRGI. Through more than 30 institutions and initiatives, hundreds of programmes, projects, and campaigns are implemented. Our work continues, and our goal is clear. As Sheikh Mohammed said, 'We will continue to extend a helping hand to less fortunate people, combat poverty, hunger, and ignorance everywhere in our region and the world, and instill hope for a better tomorrow in our Arab societies,' Sheikh Hamdan added. Sustainable approach Mohammad Al Gergawi, Minister of CaBinet Affairs and Secretary-General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, said: 'Guided by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision, MBRGI has established an inspiring model and a sustainable approach to philanthropy. It focuses on making a long-term and lasting difference in the lives of tens of millions of less fortunate individuals by empowering and developing them through impactful programmes in education, health, community empowerment, and youth support, while building international partnerships to enhance humanitarian and development efforts. Al Gergawi added: 'In 2024, MBRGI reached approximately 149 million people in 118 countries through projects and programmes valued at over AED2.2 billion, representing an AED400 million increase from 2023. This demonstrates the scale of the foundation's work and the growth of its impact. More importantly, these resources were channelled into innovative, high-quality programmes and projects that contribute to creating a better future for communities in need and enhancing human potential and quality of life.' Al Gergawi stated: 'MBRGI will continue its mission of instilling hope through sustainable and growing projects and programmes. This contributes to strengthening the UAE's leading global position as a humanitarian capital and establishes an important benchmark for innovative humanitarian and charitable work. It serves as an inspiring beacon, demonstrating the power of solidarity, cooperation and giving to make a real difference in people's lives and their future.' During the ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed bestowed the 'Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Order for Philanthropy' to Mirwais Azizi, Founder and Chairman of Azizi Developments, whose contribution of Dhs3 billion marked the first contribution in support of the Fathers' Endowment campaign, and the largest individual private sector donation in UAE history. Sheikh Mohammed also honoured a number of major contributors to the Fathers' Endowment campaign and awarded them the 'Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Medal for Philanthropy.' Honourees included Saeed Mohammed Ahmad Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA); Abdullah Al Basti, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Humanitarian and Charity Establishment (MBRHC); Mohammed Juma Al Naboodah; Masih Imtiaz, CEO of Imtiaz Developments; Imran Farooq, CEO of SAMANA Developers; Ahsan Rasheed, CEO of Peace Homes; Yussuffali MA, Chairman of Lulu Group; Siddharth Balachandran, Executive Chairman and CEO of Buimerc Corporation Ltd.; Abdullah Matar Al Mannai, Chairman and Managing Director of Emirates Auction; Omar Al Mannai, Executive Director of Emirates Auction; Dr. Abdulla AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the Integrated Transport Centre; Brigadier Mohammed Al Braik Al Ameri, Executive Director of the Drivers and Vehicles Licensing Sector; Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of Licensing Agency at Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Naresh Bhawnani, Chairman of the West Zone Group. Sheikh Hamdan also honoured the campaign's partners and major contributors, who supported its aims to honour fathers by allowing individuals to donate in their names to provide sustainable healthcare in underserved communities. Honorees included Yahya Saeed Lootah, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Saeed Ahmed Lootah Charity Foundation; Khaled Abdul Rahim Al Zarooni; Mohammad Saeed Al Shamsi from the family of the late Obaid Al Heloo; Huda Al Rostamani, Board Member of AW Rostamani Group; Mohammed Abdullatif Ibrahim Galadari, Co-Chairman and Group CEO of Galadari Brothers; Ibrahim Abdullah Alhabib, Chairman of DURAR Group; Dr Mahdi Al Fardan, Vice Chairman of Alfardan Group; Abdullah Ali Bin Zayed Al Falasi, CEO and Managing Director of Dar Al Ber Society; Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman of Landmark Group; Nisha Jagtiani, Group Director at Landmark Group; Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings; Mohammed Sharaf Al Dine Sharaf, Board Member of Sharaf Group; Jawaan Awaidha Suhail Awaidha Al Khaili, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB); Muhammad BinGhatti, Chairman of Binghatti Holding; Egor Molchanov, CEO of QUBE Developments; Ubaid Memoni, Vice Chairman of Al Waseef Group; Abdulla Al Ahmed, Chief Government and VVIP Relations Officer at e& UAE; and His Excellency Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du. MBRGI's 2024 Year in Review showcases the humanitarian, developmental, and social achievements of its various initiatives, programmes, and institutions. These efforts alleviated suffering among vulnerable populations and fostered sustainable, comprehensive change, aligned with MBRGI's mission to create hope and build a safer, more stable future. Volunteers In 2024, MBRGI's initiatives engaged 171,892 volunteers, a significant increase from 160,547 in 2023. These volunteers, alongside 975 staff members, provided crucial support for numerous humanitarian, relief, health, educational, cultural, and community-focused projects and programmes. MBRGI also awarded over Dhs38.5 million (compared to AED25.1 million in 2023) to incentivise and recognise achievements in humanitarian and developmental work. The foundation encompasses over 30 institutions and initiatives, implementing hundreds of projects across five key areas: Humanitarian Aid & Relief, Healthcare & Disease Control, Spreading Education & Knowledge, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and Empowering Communities. Humanitarian aid and relief Humanitarian Aid and Relief is a core pillar of MBRGI, reflecting its commitment to alleviating suffering worldwide. In 2024, MBRGI spent over Dhs944 million on humanitarian aid and relief, impacting over 37 million people globally. Key projects included the launch of the '1B Tower', an AED800 million endowment tower supporting the 1 Billion Meals Endowment, and Dubai Humanitarian's (formerly International Humanitarian City) 20th anniversary and rebranding, facilitating the distribution of 1,255 metric tonnes of aid to 3.7 million beneficiaries. At the 2024 World Economic Forum in Davos, MBRGI announced partnerships with UN agencies to enhance food security. This included AED30 million for UNICEF to support children and women and AED43 million for the World Food Programme (WFP) to provide direct food aid to Gaza, impacting one million people. Following His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid's directive, MBRGI, in partnership with WFP, also provided urgent food aid to 250,000 people in Lebanon as part of the 'UAE Stands with Lebanon' campaign. Healthcare and disease control Healthcare & Disease Control is another core pillar of MBRGI, focusing on treatment, prevention, and health awareness programmes. In 2024, MBRGI invested over Dhs210 million in healthcare, impacting 6.5 million people globally. Key initiatives included an Dhs37 million commitment to support Gaza's health sector, providing essential medical supplies, particularly for children, through a partnership with the World Health Organization. MBRGI also contributed an additional Dhs220 million (bringing the total to Dhs320 million) to the Magdi Yacoub Heart Foundation for the construction and equipping of the Magdi Yacoub Global Heart Centre in Cairo. In recognition of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum's support for humanitarian and medical initiatives, the new medical complex at the centre will bear his name. In 2024, the foundation stone was laid for the Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai's first comprehensive cancer hospital. The Dubai Health Authority announced the hospital's planned opening in 2026, supported by donations received by the Al Jalila Foundation. Spreading education and knowledge MBRGI prioritises the spreading of education and knowledge as fundamental to thriving societies. In 2024, MBRGI invested over Dhs599 million in education, impacting over 100 million people globally. A key 2024 initiative was the launch of the 'Mothers' Endowment' campaign by Sheikh Mohammed, establishing a Dhs1 billion fund to support education for millions worldwide. The 8th Arab Reading Challenge concluded in 2024 with over 28 million student participants from 229,000 schools across 50 countries, supervised by more than 154,000 individuals. Dubai Cares, operating under the MBRGI umbrella, saw significant expansion in 2024, impacting over 116 million beneficiaries in 60 developing countries since its inception in 2007. Dubai Cares also implemented 260 programmes, 48 support initiatives, and 40 research projects in collaboration with 143 partners, and fulfilling financial commitments totalling Dhs1 billion. Innovation and entrepreneurship MBRGI focuses on establishing Dubai and the UAE as a global hub for innovation and technology. In 2024, MBRGI spent approximately Dhs278 million on future innovation and entrepreneurship, impacting over 1.3 million people. Under this pillar, the Museum of the Future surpassed 3 million visitors from 177 countries since its opening. Further, the Global Food Innovation Summit was organised in partnership with the World Economic Forum, focusing on innovative food systems and attracting global investment in agriculture and food technologies. Over 6,229 UAE startups benefited from over AED280 million in incentives and support from the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for SME Development. Empowering communities MBRGI's community empowerment efforts saw an investment of Dhs202 million in 2024, impacting over 3.5 million people. A key highlight was the 4th edition of the Arab Hope Makers initiative, with its closing ceremony attended by 12,000 people. During the ceremony, four individuals were awarded AED1 million each for their positive contributions to society. In other achievements under this pillar, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Center for Leadership Development (MBRCLD) celebrated its 20th anniversary, with over 850 Emirati leaders across various sectors graduating from its programmes.
Gulf Today
10-03-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
UAE Cabinet approves national investment strategy for the next 6 years
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on Monday said via the X platform: "Today, I presided over a Cabinet meeting at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi. At the meeting's commencement, the national investment strategy for the subsequent six years was approved. The objective of this strategy is to enhance the annual influx of foreign direct investment from Dhs112 billion in 2023 to Dhs240 billion by 2031." His Highness went on to say, "We seek to increase the foreign investment stock in the country from Dhs800 billion to Dhs2.2 trillion over the next six years." His Highness further said, "The strategy will focus on the sectors of industry, logistics, financial services, renewable energy and information technology." Furthermore, His Highness stated that the UAE is committed to the continuous development of its economy, the expansion of global markets, the attraction of investments, and the establishment of a premier business environment. His Highness continued, "Today in the Cabinet meeting, we have approved the remote work system from outside the country in the federal government. This will allow us to benefit from global competencies and expertise located outside the country when implementing projects, studies or specialised tasks in federal entities."
Gulf Today
26-01-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Federal Tax Authority applies VAT refund of Dhs2.9 billion for 35,000 UAE nationals
The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has confirmed that its digital VAT refund systems, including the VAT-refund system for UAE nationals for the construction of new residences and the VAT-refund system for tourists, achieved outstanding results in 2024 due to a continuous development of digitalisation plans, implemented by the FTA over the calendar year. The FTA also announced on Sunday that the cumulative total of approved applications by UAE nationals who received VAT-refunds for the expenses they have incurred for the construction of their newly built residences reached 35, 000 applications with a total value of Dhs2.9 billion, since the start of the service, more than six years ago until the end of last year. That figure can be compared to the cumulative total number of applications by the end of 2023, which was a little over 27,000 applications and a total value of over Dhs2.2 billion, reflecting an annual increase of 27.52 per cent in the number of approved applications, and 32 per cent in the monetary value of refunds. According to statistics, the number of applications approved during 2024 for UAE nationals VAT- refunds, related the construction of new residences, reached 7,520 applications with a total value of Dhs704.38 million. The number of approved applications for tax refunds for the construction of new UAE national-owned residences also increased from 270 applications, worth Dhs9.11 million in 2018, to 1,900 applications during 2019, with a total value of Dhs121.46 million. In 2020, 3,750 thousand applications worth Dhs301.35 million were received, and 5,990 thousand applications, worth Dhs 467.52 million in 2021. In 2022, 7,170 applications worth Dhs583.38 million were received, with 8,250 applications worth a total of Dhs 720.12 million were processed, in 2023. The Federal Tax Authority explained that regarding the digital VAT- refund scheme for tourists, the number of retail outlets linked electronically to the system has witnessed a remarkable expansion across the UAE over the past years. The number of outlets registered for VAT-refund increasing to 17,847 outlets by the end of 2024, compared to 16,357 outlets by the end of 2023 - an increase of 9 per cent over the previous year. A total of 1,490 new retailers joined the scheme, in 2024, following the 1,518 outlets that were linked to the scheme in 2023. This brings the total number of outlets that have joined the digital VAT- refund system for tourists to 3,008, over the past two years. The FTA confirmed its ambition to increase the number of self-service kiosks across the UAE, through which tourists can finalise tax refund procedures as they leave the country. With all transactions processed in less than two minutes, self-service kiosks are currently situated in major shopping malls and hotels, in addition to airport terminals. The number of self-service kiosks for tax refunds for tourists saw an increase to 97 kiosks by the end of 2024, compared to 82 kiosks by the end of 2023 - an increase of 18. 3 per cent, over the past year. The 15 new kiosks installed during 2024, represents a more than doubling of units over 2023, which saw 6 kiosks added. Khalid Ali Al Bustani, Director-General of FTA, said, 'The FTA pays great attention to the continuous development and update of its digital systems in accordance with global best practices, in line with the UAE's digital transformation strategy. Indicators show that FTA's efforts in this field have positively reflected on the quality and performance of its mandate in general, including the digital systems for VAT refunds for eligible categories. 'Two key examples are the tax refund service for new housing construction for UAE nationals and the tax refund service for tourists, both of which have witnessed successive development processes over the past years. This has been achieved by introducing more facilities to streamline and accelerate the procedures related to self-service tax refund systems.' He added, 'Building on the positive results of the FTA's development of digital services, during 2024, in 2025 we will continue to launch various projects and initiatives in the field of digital transformation in the tax sector to keep pace with the smart transformation strategy laid out by our wise leadership, which entails transformation of all services based on seamless and proactive digital procedures, supporting efforts to reduce bureaucracy and maintain high levels of customer happiness.' Meanwhile, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security emphasised the important role of 'UAE Customs' in enhancing community security, maintaining stability, supporting the economic growth of the UAE, and achieving prosperity. This is accomplished through facilitating trade, strengthening commercial exchanges with countries around the world, managing customs risks, combating the smuggling of prohibited goods and hazardous materials, protecting borders, countering money laundering and terrorist financing attempts, as well as combating illicit trade and enhancing international cooperation. Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of the Authority, stated, coinciding with International Customs Day, which is celebrated on 26th January each year, that 'UAE Customs' has managed to build and innovate modern and advanced customs systems, achieving unprecedented accomplishments and results in the areas of digital transformation, operations, and customs seizures.
