The Emirates Foundation is an independent, philanthropic organisation set up by the Government of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi to facilitate new public-private funded initiatives to improve the welfare of all people across the UAE. The Foundation assists people, institutions and community organisations that contribute to the nation’s long-term progress and sustainability. It is supported by donations from the private sector, the government and private individuals interested in philanthropy. Its programmes and projects relate to three key themes: Youth Leadership, Knowledge Creation and Society & Culture. Specific initiatives related to these themes are developed within five core programmes: Social Development, Education, Arts & Culture, Science & Technology, and Environment. As a national effort, the Foundation uses a variety of mechanisms to identify and fund qualified individuals, organisations, and community projects in every region of the United Arab Emirates. The Foundation offers grants to – and administers – strategic projects, helping empower the UAE people to achieve their full personal and intellectual potential. It actively encourages the practice of social service, particularly among young men and women and private companies, and seeks to fill gaps in key areas of concern while improving the occupational qualifications of young Emirati professionals. The UAE has a great legacy of social and cultural values and the Emirates Foundation strives to uphold these to promote a highly motivated, informed and goal-orientated nation. Through institutional grants, fellowships, research awards, and philanthropy-led initiatives in various key areas, the Foundation aspires to raise the profile of UAE peoples and their institutions, as well as the reputation of its corporate citizens. Its mission is consistent with the ideals of the nation’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
