Awqaf Dubai Expands Educational Endowments Portfolio To AED 472 Million By 2025 For Underprivileged Students

The Endowment and Minors’ Trust Foundation in Dubai, known as Awqaf Dubai, has reported that its assets dedicated to educational support will reach AED472 million by 2025. This portfolio includes 51 endowments aimed at enhancing education within the UAE and offering learning opportunities to students from low-income backgrounds.

Awqaf Dubai's educational support portfolio is diverse, comprising 23 real estate endowments valued at AED428 million. These include buildings, villas, and commercial units. Additionally, there are 28 financial endowments consisting of bonds and equities worth AED44 million. The income generated from these assets funds educational resources for underprivileged students across 16 institutions in the UAE.

In 2024, Awqaf Dubai allocated AED5.3 million in scholarships to assist 2,079 students attending private schools and various universities both nationally and internationally. These scholarships spanned a wide array of academic fields, ensuring broad access to education for those in need.

Ali Al Mutawa, Secretary-General of the Endowment and Minors’ Trust Foundation, highlighted Awqaf Dubai’s dedication to supporting education as part of its humanitarian mission. He stated that this aligns with the leadership’s vision for equitable access to quality education. This initiative supports the UAE National Agenda and the Year of Community campaign objectives.

Al Mutawa emphasised the strategic importance of endowment funds in empowering students to gain knowledge and pursue their careers. He believes investing in education is crucial for building a sustainable community and securing the nation's future prosperity.

Donor Contributions

Al Mutawa expressed gratitude towards donors who have significantly contributed to educational causes. He noted Awqaf Dubai's commitment to growing these assets using best practices to maximise returns and extend benefits to more individuals.

The foundation registered its first educational endowment in 2017 with a donation from an Emirati woman valued at AED25 million. The latest addition was made in 2024 by an Emirati philanthropist who donated shares worth AED20 million.

With inputs from WAM