Dubai is taking a bold step in the global fight against hunger, with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announcing the launch of the world’s largest dates factory aimed at feeding millions of malnourished children each year.

The landmark initiative will produce up to 150 million date-fortified food units annually, targeting children suffering from malnutrition in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.

Announced on Friday, the project is being developed in collaboration with key partners, aligned with a broader humanitarian vision led by Sheikh Mohammed. The factory will transform dates, a staple deeply rooted in the UAE’s heritage, into high-value nutritional products designed to combat hunger at scale.

“The goal is to produce 150 million date-fortified food units annually, dedicated to children suffering from malnutrition,” Sheikh Mohammed said, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to global food security.

He emphasized the cultural and historical significance of dates in the region, noting that palm trees have sustained communities for generations. The new initiative seeks to build on that legacy by repurposing the fruit into a modern solution for one of the world’s most urgent challenges.

The project forms part of a wider humanitarian push by the UAE. Earlier this year, Sheikh Mohammed launched the Edge of Life Ramadan campaign, which aims to help save five million children under the age of five from hunger and malnutrition.

Officials say the initiative also reflects a broader call for collective action, encouraging participation from individuals, institutions, and organisations across the UAE to support vulnerable populations worldwide.

By combining tradition with innovation, the UAE’s latest project signals a growing role in tackling global humanitarian challenges, one that extends far beyond its borders.

A new limited-edition collection of gold and silver commemorative coins has been launched in the UAE, celebrating national unity while supporting community development efforts across Dubai.

The initiative, led by Emirates Minting Factory in collaboration with Dubai Gold District, is inspired by the ‘Proud of UAE’ campaign and is available exclusively within the district. The collection offers collectors and investors a chance to collect a symbolic piece tied to a defining moment in the nation’s recent history.

Beyond its collectable value, the project carries a philanthropic dimension. Proceeds from the sale of the coins will go to Ferjan Dubai, a social enterprise focused on strengthening community life and enhancing social well-being across neighbourhoods.

Officials say the initiative reflects a broader message of unity and resilience. Essa Al Falasi, Chairman of Emirates Minting Factory, described the coins as symbols of “gratitude and solidarity,” noting that the project aims to combine tangible value with meaningful impact. As a UAE-founded company, he added, the factory sought to contribute in a way that resonates with both national pride and social responsibility.

Each coin is crafted with investment-grade 1 oz gold and silver, reflecting the UAE’s heritage through detailed design and high-quality minting. The collection is positioned not only as a commemorative keepsake but also as a long-term asset for collectors.

The launch comes amid a growing trend of purpose-driven luxury products in the region, blending investment appeal with social impact.

The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat has announced that the upcoming Friday sermon in the UAE will urge worshippers to uphold national loyalty and report activities that may threaten security, while warning against actions that undermine national unity.

Delivered under the title “Whoever betrays our nation is not one of us”, the sermon will emphasise that honesty and trust are core Islamic values, describing betrayal as a grave sin.

Worshippers, particularly youth, will be urged to remain vigilant and not be misled by narratives. The message will stress unity, adherence to authentic teachings, and respect for the country’s laws and leadership.

It will also highlight the role of security services in safeguarding stability and urge individuals to report suspicious behaviour through official channels, noting that concealing wrongdoing is itself a serious offence.

The sermon will pay tribute to the UAE Armed Forces ahead of their unification anniversary on May 6, and conclude with prayers for the nation’s safety, leadership and continued prosperity.