The humanitarian campaign “Edge of Life”, launched by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has surpassed its original fundraising target, collecting more than AED 2.822 billion from 44,208 contributors ahead of the end of Ramadan.
Introduced on 13 February 2026, the initiative set out to raise at least AED 1 billion to support global efforts to combat childhood hunger. The campaign ultimately exceeded expectations, attracting generous contributions from individuals, businesses, and humanitarian organizations committed to addressing one of the world’s most urgent challenges.
Announcing the results, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that the campaign aims to rescue five million children from hunger while helping prevent 30 million others from falling into severe malnutrition. He expressed gratitude to donors and supporters, emphasizing that humanitarian action and philanthropy remain deeply embedded in the UAE’s national identity.
The campaign operates under the umbrella of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) and was implemented in collaboration with leading international organizations, including UNICEF, Save the Children, Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), and Action Against Hunger. Together, these partners will expand nutrition programmes targeting vulnerable communities, particularly in regions affected by conflict, poverty, and natural disasters.
A key element of the initiative includes a $300 million partnership between MBRGI, UNICEF, and CIFF to support life-saving nutrition programmes globally. As part of this collaboration, UNICEF will mobilize additional funding to expand the reach of these efforts.
Major philanthropic institutions and global foundations also pledged significant contributions during the campaign. Among them, the Aga Khan Foundation committed $100 million, while the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Piramal Foundation each pledged $50 million. Additional support came from the EdelGive Foundation, Tata Trusts, Aliko Dangote Foundation, and Dalio Philanthropies.
Individual donations also played a major role, contributing more than AED 707 million through multiple giving channels, including the campaign’s website, SMS donations, mobile applications, and digital platforms. Fundraising events further boosted the total, including the high-profile Most Noble Number charity auction organized in partnership with Emirates Auction and government entities, which generated over AED 91 million. An additional online auction for premium vehicle plate numbers raised nearly AED 60 million.
According to Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary General of MBRGI, the campaign reflects the UAE’s long-standing commitment to promoting a culture of giving and addressing pressing global humanitarian issues. He noted that strong public participation and the support of international partners demonstrate confidence in the campaign’s potential to deliver meaningful and lasting impact.
The “Edge of Life” initiative builds on a series of successful Ramadan campaigns launched in recent years, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global leader in humanitarian aid and philanthropy.
