Zayed for Good Foundation marks 34 years of humanitarian, development work

Abu Dhabi: The Zayed for Good Foundation has marked its 34th anniversary, celebrating more than three decades of humanitarian and development achievements inspired by the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the UAE, whose enduring legacy established humanitarian action as a defining pillar of the UAE and a message of compassion that continues to reach communities around the world. Since its establishment on 5 August 1992, the foundation has evolved into one of the UAE's leading humanitarian and development organisations, delivering impactful programmes both locally and internationally. Its initiatives have spanned humanitarian relief, food security, community development, infrastructure, healthcare and education, while progressively adopting a development model that integrates humanitarian assistance with sustainable community development. Over the past 34 years, the foundation's programmes have reached more than 180 countries, with the cumulative value of its humanitarian assistance exceeding AED2 billion. These achievements reflect the UAE's enduring commitment to humanitarian solidarity and the values of generosity established by the Founding Father and continuously supported by the country's wise leadership. This year's anniversary comes at a defining moment in the foundation's journey, following the adoption of its new strategic direction, which strengthens the integration of humanitarian response and sustainable development. The strategy places particular emphasis on food security, resilient agricultural systems, sustainable natural resource management and economic empowerment, while continuing the humanitarian and relief programmes that have remained at the heart of the foundation's mission since its inception. On this occasion, H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Zayed for Good Foundation and Abu Dhabi Sports Council, reaffirmed that the foundation remains firmly committed to advancing the enduring humanitarian vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the UAE, who believed that giving is a responsibility and that genuine development begins with people. H.H. said that the foundation's achievements over the past 34 years are the result of the unwavering support provided by the UAE's leadership to humanitarian work, reinforcing the country's position as a global model for philanthropy and sustainable development. Further, H.H. added that the anniversary serves as an opportunity to reaffirm the values upon which the foundation was established - placing people first, safeguarding human dignity, and contributing to more stable and prosperous communities. He also noted that, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the country continues to strengthen its global standing as a leading hub for humanitarian action and a key partner in advancing international development efforts and addressing global challenges. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed further stressed that the foundation continues to embody the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s, Founding Father of the UAE, vision that humanitarian work extends far beyond providing assistance. It is about empowering people, strengthening their capabilities and creating opportunities for dignified and sustainable livelihoods. This philosophy has guided thousands of projects implemented both within the UAE and internationally, improving the lives of millions of beneficiaries across the globe. H.H. also highlighted that the foundation has entered a new phase of strategic transformation this year, reflecting the evolving nature of development work. Its programmes are now designed to create sustainable impact by linking humanitarian response with food security, agricultural development, community empowerment and resilient local economies, in line with the UAE's long-term vision for sustainable development and humanitarian action. He noted that this transformation is underpinned by stronger governance, greater innovation, the adoption of advanced technologies and the expansion of strategic international partnerships, all of which enhance programme effectiveness, maximise long-term impact and strengthen the foundation's ability to respond to emerging global challenges. Sheikh Nahyan also affirmed that the foundation will remain true to the mission for which it was established, drawing inspiration from the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founding Father of the UAE, enduring legacy and guided by the vision of the UAE's leadership as it continues to advance humanitarian and development initiatives that reinforce the UAE's global leadership in humanitarian action. Dr. Mohamed Ateeq Al Falahi, Director General of the Zayed for Good Foundation, said that the foundation continues to strengthen its position as a leading humanitarian organisation by building on a distinguished legacy while embracing a forward-looking vision that responds to global c