His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has launched a new edition of the Arab Hope Makers initiative, inviting nominations for individuals and organisations making a real difference in their communities, with a Dh1 million prize awaiting the winner.
“Creating hope is the highest and most noble achievement for those seeking to serve their communities,” said Sheikh Mohammed.
“Hope makers open the door to dreams and a sense of security. Our Arab world is home to heroes who make us proud, offering daily examples of generosity and dedication in serving others.”
The Arab Hope Makers initiative, launched under the umbrella of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), aims to celebrate volunteers, community champions, and philanthropists across the region who are improving lives, uplifting others, and spreading optimism.
A platform for kindness and change
Individuals, volunteer groups, and non-profit organisations can nominate themselves or others at arabhopemakers.com. The initiative seeks to highlight stories of hope that tackle real challenges — from education and healthcare to humanitarian aid and social development.
Since its inception in 2017, the programme has drawn over 320,000 nominations, showcasing the boundless compassion and creativity found across the Arab world.
Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of MBRGI, said the initiative reflects Sheikh Mohammed’s vision to promote a culture of giving and spotlight those who spread positivity. “It has raised awareness of the power of volunteering and its ability to improve lives, empower others, and inspire communities,” he said.
Recognising true heroes
Last year’s Dh1 million Hope Maker was Ahmed Zainoun from Morocco, honoured for his initiative supporting children with Xeroderma Pigmentosum, a rare disorder known as Children of the Moon. His project helps 144 children by providing medical support and protective gear, offering them safety and dignity.
In a remarkable gesture, Sheikh Mohammed also awarded the two other finalists with matching prizes, bringing the total award value to Dh3 million, reaffirming that every act of hope is worthy of celebration.
A call to inspire hope
Now entering its sixth edition, the Arab Hope Makers initiative aims to gather tens of thousands of stories of compassion and resilience, honouring unsung heroes who dedicate their time and effort to serve others.
As Sheikh Mohammed said: “Hope Makers deserve to be recognised and celebrated. We invite everyone to nominate a Hope Maker they know at arabhopemakers.com.”
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