Emirati businessman and former diplomat Hamad bin Ahmed bin Salem Al Hajri has made one of Dubai’s most significant real estate donations of the year by endowing seven buildings in prominent areas across the city.

The donation, valued at Dh110 million, was announced by the Endowments and Minors’ Affairs Foundation (Awqaf Dubai), marking a major contribution to the emirate’s growing culture of sustainable philanthropy.

According to Awqaf Dubai, the endowed properties are located in Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Gardens, Al Hebiah Fourth, and Al Murraqad, with each officially registered under unique property numbers.

The foundation emphasized that the diversity of these assets will help ensure sustainable charitable returns over the long term, generating continuous revenue to fund social and community projects.

Al Hajri described the initiative as a “Sadaqah Jariyah” — a continuous charity — dedicated on behalf of himself and his late parents. The proceeds from the endowed buildings will be directed to support multiple charitable causes under the management of Awqaf Dubai.

These include humanitarian aid, educational initiatives, healthcare projects, and community service programs, ensuring that the impact of the donation will extend to future generations.

“This endowment is a tribute to the values of giving and compassion instilled by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and carried forward by our wise leadership,” Al Hajri said. “It reflects our deep-rooted Emirati traditions of solidarity and social responsibility.”

Ali Al Mutawa, Secretary-General of Awqaf Dubai, commended the initiative, describing it as a reflection of the “spirit of generosity that defines the UAE community.” He highlighted that the endowment reinforces Dubai’s growing reputation as a global hub for sustainable charitable work and social innovation.

“We deeply appreciate this noble act,” Al Mutawa said. “Such contributions help fund humanitarian, educational, and healthcare projects that benefit the wider community. It’s a true embodiment of the UAE’s collective commitment to social development.”

Al Mutawa added that Awqaf Dubai is continuously working to develop and diversify its portfolio of endowments in alignment with the UAE leadership’s vision of transforming Waqf (endowment) into an effective instrument for sustainable development.

Currently, Awqaf Dubai manages 1,043 active Waqfs established by 578 donors, with an estimated total asset value of Dh11.1 billion. The foundation has witnessed a steady increase in participation from both citizens and residents, reflecting a growing awareness of the importance of structured, sustainable giving in supporting long-term social progress.

This latest donation, Al Mutawa noted, not only enhances the foundation’s capacity to serve the community but also serves as an inspiration for individuals and institutions across the UAE to embrace endowment-based philanthropy.

Through this landmark contribution, Al Hajri has reaffirmed the Emirati ethos of compassion and sustainability — demonstrating how private wealth can be transformed into a lasting source of community benefit and national pride.