Dubai — His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced the launch of a major humanitarian initiative ahead of Ramadan 2026, unveiling a Dh1 billion global campaign aimed at combating child hunger and saving up to five million vulnerable children around the world.
The initiative, titled “Edge of Life,” focuses on addressing severe malnutrition and food insecurity affecting children under the age of five. The campaign reflects the UAE’s long-standing commitment to humanitarian action and reinforces the country’s leadership in international relief efforts during the holy month of Ramadan.
According to official statements, the campaign will mobilize donations, partnerships, and humanitarian programs to deliver emergency food assistance, improve nutrition access, and support sustainable solutions in regions facing acute food crises. The initiative will work alongside international aid organizations and global partners to reach children living in areas impacted by poverty, conflict, and climate-related challenges.
Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that Ramadan is a time of compassion, generosity, and solidarity, calling on individuals, institutions, and philanthropic entities to contribute to the life-saving effort. He highlighted that protecting children from hunger is a collective humanitarian responsibility and urged global cooperation to support vulnerable communities.
Recent global data indicates that millions of children continue to suffer from malnutrition, with hunger remaining a leading cause of preventable deaths among young children. Reports estimate that more than 118 million children worldwide are affected by acute food insecurity, while hunger-related conditions contribute to approximately 2.6 million child deaths annually, underscoring the urgency behind large-scale humanitarian initiatives such as the newly launched campaign.
The Dh1 billion target positions the initiative among the largest Ramadan-focused charitable campaigns launched by the UAE. Officials stated that funds raised will support emergency food aid, nutrition programs, healthcare support for malnourished children, and long-term interventions aimed at improving food security and resilience in vulnerable regions.
The announcement has generated significant attention across the Middle East and internationally, as Ramadan charity drives in the UAE traditionally inspire widespread participation from residents, businesses, and global donors. Analysts say the campaign demonstrates the UAE’s continued commitment to humanitarian leadership and reflects a broader strategy to address global crises through coordinated charitable action.
Also Read: Ramadan 2026 in the UAE: Start Date, Working Hours, Iftar & Suhoor Timings Explained
