🌍 Introduction to Charity Organizations in the UAE
The UAE has long been recognized for its commitment to charitable giving and humanitarian efforts both locally and internationally. The leadership and people of the UAE prioritize generosity, solidarity, and support for the underprivileged. Charity organizations in the UAE play a crucial role in bridging social gaps and supporting those in need through food distribution, healthcare, education, housing, and international aid.
These charity organizations in the UAE serve as a bridge between donors and beneficiaries, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most. From emergency relief in disaster zones to providing ongoing support to local communities, these foundations are committed to building a better world. The involvement of the UAE government and private donors in these efforts reflects the deep-rooted culture of philanthropy in Emirati society.
This guide provides an in-depth look at the top 10 charity organizations in the UAE, detailing their missions, programs, and how you can contribute to their noble causes.
1️⃣ Emirates Red Crescent
Founded: 1983
One of the most well-known charity organizations in the UAE, the Emirates Red Crescent, focuses on providing emergency relief, health services, education, and development projects globally. The organization has played a key role in crisis response and rebuilding war-torn or disaster-struck areas.
The Emirates Red Crescent continues to lead various campaigns during Ramadan and Eid, ensuring people in crisis zones have access to essential supplies. As a pillar among charity organizations in the UAE, their global footprint is unmatched.
Focus Areas: Disaster relief, healthcare, education, orphans sponsorship
2️⃣ Dubai Cares
Founded: 2007
A major initiative under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, Dubai Cares is one of the most active charity organizations in the UAE, focusing on children’s education in developing countries. It implements educational programs in over 60 countries.
Dubai Cares has impacted the lives of millions by supporting school infrastructure, providing school meals, and advocating for policy change. It exemplifies what charity organizations in the UAE can achieve through long-term vision and strategic partnerships.
Focus Areas: Global education, learning access, youth empowerment
3️⃣ Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation
Founded: 1992
This organization was established in honor of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It supports sustainable development and charity projects across education, healthcare, and relief efforts. It is one of the most respected charity organizations in the UAE.
With a commitment to the well-being of humanity, this foundation contributes to building hospitals and schools, reflecting the UAE’s philosophy of giving.
Focus Areas: Education, healthcare, international aid
4️⃣ Sharjah Charity International
Founded: 1989
This foundation primarily serves residents in the UAE and abroad by offering aid in the form of medical, financial, and educational support. It’s one of the key charity organizations in the UAE, known for transparency and social responsibility.
Sharjah Charity International helps build mosques, sponsors orphaned children, and supports medical cases in need of urgent assistance.
Focus Areas: Zakat, education, health, social welfare
5️⃣ Al Maktoum Foundation
Founded: 1997
The Al Maktoum Foundation has implemented numerous projects worldwide, focusing on education and healthcare. As one of the charity organizations in the UAE, it has developed strong roots in Africa and Asia, helping communities overcome poverty.
It also supports academic scholarships and women’s empowerment programs.
Focus Areas: Global education, building schools, and healthcare centers
6️⃣ Beit Al Khair Society
Founded: 1989
Known for supporting families in financial distress, Beit Al Khair Society operates numerous aid programs that provide direct financial, food, and educational support. It’s one of the most impactful charity organizations in the UAE.
Beit Al Khair Society runs continuous campaigns across all emirates and is deeply embedded in UAE charities that help the less fortunate.
Focus Areas: Ramadan campaigns, food distribution, family support, orphans
7️⃣ Noor Dubai Foundation
Founded: 2008
This nonprofit tackles visual impairment and blindness, both in the UAE and internationally. Noor Dubai is a unique entry among charity organizations in the UAE, focused on eye care and preventive health solutions.
They provide mobile eye camps, perform surgeries, and train healthcare workers in developing nations.
Focus Areas: Eye treatment, surgeries, prevention programs
8️⃣ Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation
Founded: 2007
This foundation implements health and education projects in more than 87 countries, with a strong focus on humanitarian aid. It is one of the prominent charity organizations in the UAE, recognized globally.
They are involved in food security, building schools and hospitals, and poverty eradication.
Focus Areas: Healthcare, emergency aid, global education, infrastructure
9️⃣ PCT Humanity
PCT Humanity (Pehal Charitable Trust) is a non-profit humanitarian organization that operates both in the UAE and internationally. It provides vital support to underprivileged communities through food distribution, education assistance, healthcare, and clean water projects. The organization is recognized for its large-scale relief operations, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, and holds a Guinness World Record for its humanitarian efforts.
Focus Areas: Crisis relief, food aid, clean water, education, healthcare, social welfare
🔟 Dar Al Ber Society
Founded: 1979
One of the oldest and most trusted charity organizations in the UAE, Dar Al Ber Society specializes in cultural, educational, and religious charity work. They also contribute significantly to water well projects, housing, and emergency relief.
This organization plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability and social equity.
Focus Areas: Housing, water wells, religious centers, scholarships
🙌 How to Support Charity Organizations in the UAE
You can support charity organizations in the UAE by donating directly via their websites, volunteering your time, or participating in their ongoing campaigns. Many organizations also offer corporate partnerships and CSR opportunities for businesses looking to give back.
Whether through financial aid, advocacy, or time, every contribution helps strengthen the impact of UAE charities. Always ensure you’re donating through registered and verified platforms.
🌐 External Resources:
- Emirates Red Crescent
- Dubai Cares
- Zayed Charitable Foundation
- Al Maktoum Foundation
- Beit Al Khair Society
- Noor Dubai Foundation
- Khalifa Bin Zayed Foundation
- Mohammed Bin Rashid Charity
- Dar Al Ber Society
Also Read: Comprehensive Guide to Health Insurance Companies in the UAE (2025)— Compare & Choose Wisely