Edge of Life Campaign Strengthens Support, Raising Over AED 2.822 Billion to Combat Childhood Hunger
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, announced that the “Edge of Life” campaign has successfully surpassed its goal of raising AED 1 billion to combat childhood hunger. Launched on February 13, 2026, the campaign has garnered over AED 2.822 billion from 44,208 contributors, including individuals, businesses, and notable humanitarian organizations.
Campaign Overview and Objectives
The “Edge of Life” campaign aims to rescue five million children from hunger and prevent 30 million others from facing life-threatening malnutrition. As the holy month of Ramadan approaches its conclusion, Sheikh Mohammed expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received. He emphasized that the UAE’s philanthropic efforts are integral to the nation’s identity and will continue regardless of circumstances.
Contribution Channels and Partnerships
Contributions to the campaign were facilitated through multiple channels, including the campaign’s website, call center, and SMS donations via du and e& numbers. Additional support came through the DubaiNow app, YallaGive.com, and the community contributions platform Jood (Jood.ae). The campaign was organized in partnership with UNICEF, Save the Children, the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), and Action Against Hunger, focusing on vulnerable communities affected by natural disasters and conflicts.
Impact and Future Initiatives
Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), highlighted that the campaign embodies Sheikh Mohammed’s vision of establishing giving as a core value. He noted that the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian efforts is reflected in the community’s response, which included significant contributions from various organizations and individuals.
The campaign has received substantial backing, totaling AED 2.115 billion from partners and humanitarian organizations. A notable partnership was announced between MBRGI, UNICEF, and CIFF, which includes a joint investment of US$300 million (AED 1.0175 billion) to enhance global nutrition programs.
Major Contributions and Events
MBRGI hosted a Suhoor event at the Armani Dubai Hotel, Burj Khalifa, which brought together philanthropic and business leaders. Pledges made during this event included $100 million (AED 367 million) from the Aga Khan Foundation and $50 million (AED 184 million) from both the Gates Foundation and the EdelGive Foundation. Individual contributions to the campaign exceeded AED 707 million.
The “Most Noble Number” charity auction, organized by MBRGI in collaboration with Emirates Auction, raised AED 91.405 million. An online auction for special plate numbers also contributed AED 59.6 million to the campaign.
Historical Context of Philanthropic Campaigns
The “Edge of Life” campaign builds on the success of previous Ramadan initiatives led by Sheikh Mohammed. Notable campaigns include the “10 Million Meals” initiative in 2020, which provided over 15.3 million meals, and the “100 Million Meals” campaign in 2021, which distributed 220 million meals across 30 countries. In 2022, the “1 Billion Meals” campaign reached its target within a month, while the “1 Billion Meals Endowment” campaign in 2023 raised AED 1.075 billion. The “Mothers’ Endowment” campaign in 2024 aimed to honor mothers in the UAE and raised over AED 1.4 billion.
The “Fathers’ Endowment” campaign last year focused on establishing a sustainable fund for healthcare treatment, raising over AED 3.7 billion.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-03-16 17:16:00 • By Editorial Desk
