Post by : Raman

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a major step to strengthen its leadership in philanthropy, humanitarian work, and social development. On 15th September 2025, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, issued Federal Decree No. (116) of 2025, restructuring the Board of Trustees of Erth Zayed Philanthropies. This move reflects the country’s commitment to advancing social development initiatives nationally and internationally.

The newly formed Board of Trustees is chaired by H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Sheikh Theyab also holds several key positions, including Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Martyrs’ Families Affairs, Chairman of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Erth Zayed Philanthropies.

Composition of the New Board

The Federal Decree named prominent leaders and experts from various fields as members of the new Board of Trustees. Their combined experience in governance, humanitarian work, and strategic planning is expected to guide the Foundation’s initiatives efficiently. Key members include:

• Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of State

• Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Chairman of The Founder’s Office

• Dr. Ahmed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the President's Office for Strategic Affairs and the Abu Dhabi Executive Office

• Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Community Empowerment

• Saeed Mohammed Al Raqbani, Special Advisor to H.H. the Ruler of Fujairah

• Rashid Saeed Al Ameri, Advisor at the President’s Office for Strategic Affairs

• Dr. Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri, Director of Development Affairs at the Presidential Court

• Saeed Rashid Al Zaabi, Advisor to the Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court

This group of leaders ensures that the Foundation benefits from strategic planning, governance expertise, and humanitarian knowledge.

About Erth Zayed Philanthropies

Erth Zayed Philanthropies was established under Federal Decree No. (126) of 2024 and operates under the Presidential Court. It has an independent legal status, allowing it to implement its projects effectively. The Foundation’s main mission is to manage and support humanitarian, philanthropic, and development programs both in the UAE and internationally.

The Foundation plays a central role in consolidating the UAE’s efforts in areas such as education, healthcare, social welfare, environmental protection, and community development. Its work reflects the UAE’s vision of compassion, social responsibility, and global humanitarian leadership.

Key Entities under the Foundation

Erth Zayed Philanthropies supervises a wide range of organizations and initiatives to achieve its objectives. Some of the key entities include:

• Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation – Provides humanitarian support and community welfare programs.

• Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation – Promotes healthcare, education, and sustainable development.

• Mohamed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity – Offers humanitarian assistance locally and internationally.

• Emirates Foundation – Supports youth empowerment, education, and social innovation.

• Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund – Protects endangered species and biodiversity globally.

• Sandooq Al Watan – Advances social and economic initiatives for communities.

• Clean Rivers Foundation – Works to preserve rivers and water resources.

• Global Institute for Disease Elimination – Focuses on disease research and prevention worldwide.

• Zayed Sustainability Prize – Recognizes innovative solutions in sustainability and environmental protection.

• Khalifa Award for Education – Promotes educational excellence.

• Mohamed bin Zayed Award for Best Teacher – Honors outstanding teachers in the UAE.

• Ekthar – Promotes cultural, social, and philanthropic initiatives.

These entities cover a wide spectrum of humanitarian, educational, environmental, and social initiatives, highlighting the Foundation’s comprehensive approach to philanthropy.

Objectives and Vision

The restructuring of the Board of Trustees aims to improve governance, strategic planning, and the effectiveness of the Foundation’s initiatives. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s vision is to make Erth Zayed Philanthropies a global leader in humanitarian work. The board is responsible for guiding the strategic direction of all affiliated entities and ensuring that projects align with national priorities and international humanitarian standards.

Roles and Responsibilities of the Board

The Board of Trustees has several key roles:

• Strategic Oversight: Guiding long-term plans and strategies for the Foundation.

• Monitoring and Evaluation: Ensuring that projects achieve their objectives effectively.

• Resource Allocation: Distributing financial and human resources efficiently across initiatives.

• Partnership Development: Building collaborations with governments, international organizations, and private institutions.

• Innovation and Sustainability: Encouraging innovative approaches in social, humanitarian, and environmental projects.

• Reporting and Accountability: Maintaining transparency and compliance with national and international standards.

Through these responsibilities, the Board ensures that the Foundation operates effectively and maximizes its social impact.

National and Global Impact

Erth Zayed Philanthropies contributes significantly to national development and international humanitarian work. Its programs provide essential services, educational support, environmental initiatives, and disaster relief. The Foundation also plays a role in disease elimination efforts globally, demonstrating the UAE’s commitment to being a responsible international partner.

Empowering Communities

The Foundation’s programs aim to empower communities in education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and social innovation. Initiatives such as the Zayed Sustainability Prize and the Mohamed bin Zayed Award for Best Teacher encourage innovation and excellence while promoting a culture of giving and social responsibility.

Strengthening Governance and Leadership

The restructuring of the Board also highlights the UAE’s commitment to strong governance in philanthropy. Experienced leaders from government and humanitarian organizations ensure that decisions are strategic, transparent, and impactful. The board regularly reviews projects, approves new initiatives, and monitors progress to ensure alignment with the UAE’s vision for sustainable development.

Commitment to Humanitarian Values

Erth Zayed Philanthropies embodies the UAE’s dedication to humanitarian and philanthropic values. Its initiatives support vulnerable populations, provide disaster relief, and promote social welfare, education, and environmental protection. The Foundation reinforces the UAE’s global reputation as a compassionate and responsible nation.

With the newly restructured Board of Trustees, Erth Zayed Philanthropies is set to expand its impact nationally and internationally. The Foundation will continue to:

• Support education programs and scholarships

• Advance healthcare and disease prevention initiatives

• Promote environmental conservation and sustainability

• Recognize innovation in social, agricultural, and educational fields

• Strengthen international humanitarian partnerships

These efforts demonstrate the UAE’s long-term commitment to social development, philanthropy, and global cooperation.

The issuance of Federal Decree No. (116) of 2025 and the restructuring of Erth Zayed Philanthropies’ Board of Trustees marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s philanthropic journey. Under the leadership of H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Foundation is well-positioned to lead in humanitarian work, social development, and global philanthropy.

With strategic leadership, strong governance, and a vision for innovation and compassion, Erth Zayed Philanthropies continues to make a lasting impact on communities in the UAE and around the world, serving as a model for excellence in philanthropy and humanitarian efforts.

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