The UAE has launched a Dh100 million fund aimed at strengthening the non-profit sector and enhancing its contribution to national development. Announced by Shamma Al Mazrui, Minister of Community Empowerment, the initiative is designed to support organisations working in areas such as education, health, environment, community development, and family welfare, while also helping them generate greater social and economic impact.
Under the scheme, eligible non-profit organisations can receive funding of up to Dh5 million, depending on their size and stage of development. Newly registered organisations (less than two years old) may apply for up to Dh500,000, while more established entities can access larger grants. The fund is intended to help build a more structured, sustainable, and impact-driven third sector across the country.
Officials highlighted that the initiative aims to address a key challenge in the sector, which is the lack of a clear system to measure and connect social outcomes with funding. Organisations will be required to demonstrate strong impact potential, financial feasibility, and alignment with national priorities, with all funded projects implemented within the UAE.
The country already has more than 800 non-profit organisations, and the government views them as important partners in development and job creation. The new fund is expected to strengthen their capacity, expand services, and contribute to creating thousands of employment opportunities in the sector.
The initiative has been welcomed by sector representatives, including organisations working in social care and special needs support, who see it as an opportunity to scale services and improve outreach. It also aligns with broader national efforts to expand volunteering, increase the number of non-profits, and strengthen community engagement under long-term development plans aimed at boosting civic participation and social impact.
