In a significant legal update, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has issued a decree renaming the well-established charity foundation previously known as the “Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charity and Humanitarian Establishment” to the “Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable Establishment.” This change not only updates the foundation’s name but also reaffirms its broad mandate in charitable and humanitarian work, both within the UAE and internationally.
Renaming and legal framework
The new title, formalized under Decree No. (36) of 2025, officially replaces the former name established by Decree No. (13) of 1997 and its subsequent amendments. The foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the public interest. The decree specifically abolishes the previous designation “Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charity and Humanitarian Establishment” and substitutes it with the streamlined “Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable Establishment.”Despite this change, the foundation continues to operate under a clear legal framework. It remains subject to Dubai’s regulations for non-profits and public interest entities, including compliance with laws and policies enforced by:
- The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai
- The Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai
This includes adherence to several important legislations and regulations:
- Law No. (12) of 2017 regulating non-profit organisations
- Decree No. (9) of 2015 governing fundraising activities
- Decree No. (9) of 2022 overseeing public interest entities established by Dubai’s Ruler
- Executive Council Resolution No. (26) of 2013 related to charitable associations, Quran memorisation centres, and Islamic institutions
The new decree supersedes the original 1997 decree and its amendments but retains the validity of existing decisions from the earlier decree as long as they don’t conflict with the new provisions. Additionally, Decree No. (49) of 2023 concerning the Supreme Chairman’s position and Resolution No. (29) of 2023 on the Board of Trustees’ reformation remain fully effective.
Scope and activities of the charitable establishment
Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the oversight of its Supreme Chairman, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable Establishment operates in close coordination with relevant government bodies and international organizations. Its mission covers a wide range of charitable and humanitarian initiatives across various sectors, both within the UAE and abroad.The foundation’s core activities include:
- Developing, managing, and supporting projects and centers in areas such as development, culture, social welfare, education, health, and religion.
- Implementing health programs focusing on disease prevention, facilitating access to medications, and providing financial aid to patients in need.
- Offering support to students, teachers, and educational institutions domestically and internationally.
- Assisting families with limited income or facing urgent financial difficulties to promote social stability.
- Organizing and participating in relief efforts, delivering aid to individuals affected by disasters and crises both within the UAE and overseas.
This diverse portfolio highlights the foundation’s commitment to a comprehensive approach in improving social welfare and development outcomes.
Enforcement and effectivity
The decree took effect immediately upon its publication in the Official Gazette. It establishes a clear legal and operational framework that aligns the foundation’s activities with Dubai’s regulatory environment for charitable and humanitarian organizations, ensuring transparency, accountability, and governance in line with state policies.The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable Establishment now moves forward under this renewed identity, reinforcing its commitment to impactful charitable work and continuing the legacy established over the past decades.
