Sultan launches Dhs40m endowment for orphans

His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated, on Monday, the "Prophet’s Neighbours" endowment project launched by the Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation.

The project marks the beginning of a series of endowments dedicated to supporting orphans and is located in Aljada area.

During his speech at the event, His Highness congratulated everyone on the project launch and announced that he would personally fund the first endowment at a cost of Dhs40 million.

Project overview and vision

His Highness listened to a detailed presentation on the project and the location of the endowment facility.

The land for the project, totalling 932 square metres, was generously donated by His Highness. A multi-storey building spanning a construction area of 13,835 square metres will be built on the site. The building will feature 15 floors and 75 residential apartments, with revenues from the project directed to support beneficiaries. His Highness was also briefed on other endowment initiatives by the Foundation and the various ways individuals can contribute to them.

Message to orphans: Prioritise education

Addressing the orphans supported by the Foundation, His Highness urged them to focus on their education, emphasising that all educational paths, from schools to universities, are open to them. He advised them not to be distracted from the pursuit of knowledge and assured them of future job opportunities upon graduation.

His Highness said: “We are with you, and before God, we have accepted this responsibility.”

Encouraging participation in Youth Centres

His Highness highlighted the importance of youth and children’s centres, encouraging orphans to participate in their activities. These centres, established in Sharjah, aim to support youth development by nurturing both physical and intellectual growth.

A call to protect the environment

Concluding his speech, His Highness called for greater environmental awareness, particularly the planting and care of trees, noting their essential role in sustaining life and purifying the air. He said: “A tree is like a mother who nurtures her children. So we say: take care of the tree, do not step on it, because in doing so, you step on life. The tree gives us life. We ask each of you to plant and care for a tree. Be a friend to the tree.”

Heartfelt interaction with orphans

At the end of the event, His Highness warmly greeted each of the Foundation’s orphans, who expressed deep gratitude for his continuous care and generous support. He posed for group and commemorative photos with them.

Sheikha Jameela praises the Ruler’s compassionate leadership

In a recorded speech, Sheikha Jameela Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, praised His Highness’s touching and thoughtful actions. She said: “The words of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi continue to inspire hearts and minds. His meeting with the orphans today, and his supportive words, will remain a lasting motivation for them to pursue education and become agents of positive change.”

She added: “His Highness greeted each child personally, asked about their wellbeing, and spoke with them as a loving father. Their eyes reflected hope and dreams, comforted by a nurturing environment and the presence of a caring leader.”

Empowerment through sustainable support

Sheikha Jameela further stated: “Since its inception, the Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation has worked to empower orphans, build their confidence, and ensure a sustainable future. The 'Prophet’s Neighbours' endowment project, inaugurated by His Highness, is a noble beginning. He invoked the Quranic phrase: ‘And let the competitors compete,’ encouraging people to earn lasting rewards through this charitable initiative.

Significance of the Endowment name

The name "Prophet’s Neighbours" was chosen based on a Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): “The one who cares for an orphan, whether his own or someone else’s, will be with me in Paradise like this,” and he pointed with his index and middle fingers. This reflects the high status of orphan care in Islam, promising closeness to the Prophet in Paradise for those who fulfil this noble duty.

Flexible participation and endowment certificates

The Foundation will provide official waqf certificates to all who contribute to the "Prophet’s Neighbours" project. Various flexible contribution options are available to accommodate different circumstances and donor preferences.

Attendees

Present at the inauguration alongside His Highness were Sheikha Jameela Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Mohammed Obaid Al Zaabi, Head of the Protocol and Hospitality Department, Mona Bin Hadda Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Foundation, and several senior officials.