Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai
Dubai, Nov 11: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, inaugurated the sixth edition of the Arab Hope Makers initiative, the Arab world’s largest platform dedicated to honouring individuals, volunteer groups, and organisations that bring positive change, uplift communities, and spread hope.
Launched under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), the programme has become a regional beacon for humanitarian work, recognising those whose selfless contributions often go unnoticed. Since its inception in 2017, Arab Hope Makers has received over 320,000 nominations, showcasing the breadth of compassion and civic engagement across the Arab world.
Speaking at the launch, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the profound moral value of hope, saying, “Creating hope is the highest and most noble achievement for those who seek to serve their communities. Hope makers open the door to dreams and a sense of security. Our Arab world is home to heroes who make us proud every day through their generosity and service.”
The initiative seeks to promote a culture of volunteerism, empathy, and collective progress by recognising impactful social projects. According to Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of MBRGI, its goals include fostering philanthropy, empowering changemakers, and spreading optimism through real-life examples of service.
Past editions have celebrated inspiring stories, such as Moroccan humanitarian Ahmed Zainoun, who was named Arab Hope Maker for his work with children suffering from Xeroderma Pigmentosum, a rare condition known as “Children of the Moon.” Sheikh Mohammed personally awarded him, along with two other finalists, AED 1 million each, allowing them to expand their initiatives.
For the 2025 edition, nominations are now open through www.arabhopemakers.com, inviting submissions from across the Arab world. Sheikh Mohammed underscored the transformative power of hope, writing, “People live on hope and societies thrive on it. Hope is a source of strength and renewal—a boundless force for good.”
Through this initiative, the UAE aims not only to recognise those who serve humanity but also to inspire a new generation of volunteers, philanthropists, and community leaders, building a future rooted in generosity, compassion, and collective resilience.