Awqaf Abu Dhabi Highlights Endowment-Based Philanthropy At IUCN Philanthropy Summit 2025

The Endowments and Minors’ Funds Authority, known as Awqaf Abu Dhabi, recently participated as a Strategic Institutional Partner at the IUCN Philanthropy Summit 2025. This event took place at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy in Abu Dhabi. The partnership highlights Awqaf Abu Dhabi’s dedication to establishing the UAE as a leader in sustainable philanthropy through endowments.

Awqaf Abu Dhabi's involvement in the summit highlights its increasing influence in sustainable finance and impact-driven philanthropy. By collaborating with global partners, the Authority is advancing innovative endowment frameworks that align with the UAE's sustainability goals, contributing to economic diversification and social well-being.

The summit, organised by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), was part of the IUCN World Conservation Congress. It brought together leaders from philanthropic, financial, and environmental sectors to discuss innovative giving models. These models aim to address the $1.3 trillion global biodiversity financing gap and promote sustainable economies.

During the event, Awqaf Abu Dhabi hosted a Breakout Session titled "Closing the Loop: Philanthropy Powering Our Circular Future." This session explored how philanthropy can drive a shift towards a circular and sustainable future. Discussions focused on using endowment-based financing to fund innovation and support early-stage projects.

Fahad Abdulqader Al Qassim, Director-General of Awqaf Abu Dhabi, led discussions on how Awqaf channels capital into sectors like healthcare and education. This approach creates a cycle of regeneration and measurable impact. Al Qassim also delivered a keynote address during an Interactive Panel Session titled "The Multiplier Effect: Amplifying the Power of Philanthropic Investment."

In his keynote speech, Al Qassim emphasised transforming structured philanthropy into a regenerative system that multiplies social and economic value. He explained how Awqaf Abu Dhabi’s approach turns contributions into lasting financial bases that build confidence and attract collaboration.

A Vision for Sustainable Growth

Al Qassim stated, "Our engagement at the Summit reaffirms Awqaf Abu Dhabi’s role in advancing the UAE’s vision for sustainable and inclusive growth." He highlighted linking philanthropy with innovation and long-term financial stewardship to create systems that respond to current challenges while generating future value.

Awqaf Abu Dhabi is committed to transforming giving into a lasting financial ecosystem under President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's vision. By integrating transparency, accountability, and innovation into endowment management, they aim to ensure contributions continue empowering communities for generations.

Al Qassim expressed his honour in participating in the summit alongside global leaders sharing a vision for meaningful impact. He noted that collaboration is essential for building a more sustainable world. The summit provided a platform to rethink how giving can shape data-driven, regenerative philanthropy models.

With inputs from WAM