Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Launches Thank You Sheikha Hind Campaign Celebrating Her Contributions

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has introduced the ‘Thank You Sheikha Hind’ campaign. This initiative acknowledges Her Highness Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum for her remarkable achievements and contributions. It celebrates her role in promoting Emirati family values, social unity, and supporting His Highness in raising their children.

Sheikha Hind has been instrumental in launching initiatives that have positively impacted millions. Her efforts have strengthened family bonds and advanced women's empowerment. Her Highness has been a steadfast partner to Sheikh Mohammed, exemplifying loyalty and compassion. Her dedication to humanitarian causes has made her a symbol of kindness and generosity.

Sheikha Hind has championed initiatives supporting families, motherhood, and children. In January 2024, she launched the Dubai Weddings programme to assist citizens with wedding planning. This programme reduced financial burdens and promoted family stability. By the end of 2024, it facilitated 344 weddings, representing 28.3% of all citizen weddings in Dubai.

The programme also led to a 10.1% increase in citizen weddings compared to 2023. Additionally, the ‘Start it Right’ programme provided guidance to 1,013 individuals, while 208 beneficiaries received financial aid. Sheikha Hind also supports mass weddings that promote authentic values and reduce marriage costs.

Sheikha Hind's humanitarian work extends beyond family support. She played a crucial role in the ‘10 Million Meals’ campaign during Ramadan in 2020, which exceeded its target by distributing over 15.3 million meals across the UAE during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her involvement was pivotal in ensuring food assistance reached those affected.

In 2021, she contributed significantly to the success of the ‘1 Billion Meals’ campaign aimed at providing meals across 50 countries worldwide. This initiative became the largest food donation drive in the region under Sheikh Mohammed's leadership.

Awards and Recognition

Her Highness has received numerous accolades for her efforts. These include the Arab First Lady Award for women's causes in 2006 and the Golden Humanitarian Personality award in 2013. In 2014, she was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Arab Women Awards programme in the UAE.

In addition to these awards, she was named Islamic Personality of the Year at the Dubai International Holy Quran Award ceremony in 2024. These recognitions highlight her dedication to humanitarian work and women's empowerment.

Commitment to Religious Initiatives

Sheikha Hind actively supports religious initiatives such as sponsoring Quran competitions like the Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Holy Quran Competition. She also supports school students through competitions like the Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed Al Maktoum Holy Quran Competition.

Her contributions include facilitating Quran printing and distribution as well as mosque construction sponsorships. Each year, she covers Hajj expenses for those unable to afford them within and outside the UAE.

Promoting Sports Among Women

Her commitment extends into sports through initiatives like sponsoring the Sheikha Hind Women's Sports Tournament. This event encourages women’s participation in sports by offering both individual and team events aimed at fostering an active lifestyle among women.

The ‘Thank You Sheikha Hind’ campaign reflects deep appreciation from Emiratis towards Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum for her generosity towards society’s welfare through various charitable endeavours while promoting tolerance culture alongside peaceful coexistence principles within communities globally recognised today more than ever before!

With inputs from WAM