Abu Dhabi Launches Dh1 Billion Fund for Free Chronic Disease Treatment

Abu Dhabi has launched a major healthcare initiative that could change the lives of thousands. The new Dh 1 billion fund will be used to provide free treatment for people living with chronic illnesses — especially those who can’t afford the cost of ongoing care.

The campaign, called ‘Life Endowment’, is all about helping the most vulnerable in society, giving them access to proper medical support and a better quality of life. But what does this really mean for patients, families, and the community? We answer your questions below.

What is the ‘Life Endowment Campaign’?

The Life Endowment Campaign is a large-scale healthcare initiative launched by the Endowments and Minors’ Funds Authority (Awqaf Abu Dhabi) in partnership with the Department of Health — Abu Dhabi, under the theme ‘With You for Life’.

It aims to provide free, sustainable treatment for patients battling chronic illnesses, especially those who cannot afford it. This effort is part of the broader Healthcare Endowment initiative, announced in May 2024, and reflects the Emirate’s long-term commitment to public health and social responsibility.

Who will benefit from this initiative?

The campaign primarily supports vulnerable individuals living with chronic illnesses, including low-income patients and those facing long-term health challenges that require ongoing treatment.

The goal is to ease the financial burden, provide access to quality healthcare and improve quality of life across Abu Dhabi and beyond.

What is the total value of the initiative and how is it funded?

The initiative has been seeded with a Dh1 billion endowment, which makes it one of the largest of its kind in the region. The capital will be invested strategically, with the returns used to —

• Fund medical treatments and medications
• Expand psychological and specialist support services
• Reinforce healthcare infrastructure
• Promote innovative care models

This model ensures that the support is not only immediate but sustainable for years to come.

Who are the key partners behind this initiative?

This endowment initiative is a collective effort involving —

• Awqaf Abu Dhabi – the lead endowment authority
• Department of Health – Abu Dhabi – overseeing medical services and distribution
• Emirates Red Crescent – facilitating donations and outreach
• Ma’an (Authority of Social Contribution) – promoting community participation and contribution

Together, these institutions are creating a framework that blends compassion, investment, and governance to deliver lasting social impact.

What does this mean for the future of healthcare in the UAE?

This initiative signifies a paradigm shift in healthcare funding in the UAE.

By leveraging endowments as a tool for sustainable development, Abu Dhabi is confirming that vulnerable patients receive consistent care without being dependent on annual budgets or charity drives. It strengthens the resilience of the healthcare system and makes healthcare a shared social responsibility.

Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, emphasised that the campaign is not just about treatment — it’s about building an inclusive and compassionate healthcare model that prioritises patient dignity and long-term well-being.

How can individuals and companies contribute?

There are two official channels for donations —

• Emirates Red Crescent – A leading humanitarian organisation with decades of trusted experience
• Ma’an (Social Contribution Authority) – A government platform that links donors with high-impact causes

Contributors — whether individuals or corporations — can give directly through these platforms so that their support is secure, transparent, and directed to real impact.

What makes this initiative different or innovative?

The ‘Life Endowment’ campaign introduces a regenerative funding model where capital is not depleted but invested. This creates ongoing returns that fund patient care indefinitely.

It also —

• Encourages public-private partnerships
• Promotes social solidarity through structured giving
• Embeds healthcare in the UAE’s humanitarian identity

As Fahad Abdulqader Al Qassim, Director General of Awqaf Abu Dhabi, put it:

“We believe that endowments are essential partners in community development and supporters of vital sectors, including healthcare. The Authority is committed to achieving the campaign’s goals through the creation of endowments from contributions and donations, overseeing the management of these contributions by investing and preserving them to ensure sustainable resources, and enhancing their impact to encourage further giving in this critical sector.”

Why is this initiative launched now?

This campaign is part of the UAE’s ‘Year of the Community’, announced by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to enhance civic responsibility and collective welfare. It reaffirms the UAE's long-standing tradition of generosity, rooted in values of care, solidarity, and humanity.

How will the impact be measured or sustained?

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi will manage the medical aspects for oversight and quality control. Investment returns will be monitored and impact assessments will be conducted regularly to provide transparency and effectiveness.

Moreover, partners like Ma’an and Red Crescent will continue to rally community support and document success stories, which will create a feedback loop that encourages further participation.

How can you stay updated or get involved?

To follow developments, contribute, or find out if you're eligible for support, visit —

• Department of Health – Abu Dhabi
• Emirates Red Crescent
• Ma’an – Authority of Social Contribution

The Bottom Line: Abu Dhabi’s Dh1 Billion Pledge Puts People First

Abu Dhabi’s Dh1 billion healthcare endowment is a promise. A promise that those battling chronic illnesses will not have to choose between their health and their livelihood. With the launch of the Life Endowment Campaign, the emirate is laying the foundation for a future where treatment is a right, not a privilege.

This initiative brings together government authorities, humanitarian organisations, and the community — showing what’s possible when compassion meets action. Whether through a small donation, corporate contribution, or simply spreading the word, every member of society has a chance to take part.

In the ‘Year of the Community’, Abu Dhabi has set an example for the region — that true strength lies in how we care for our most vulnerable. And with this bold step, the UAE is proving once again that humanity and healing go hand in hand.

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