Badr Jafar, an Emirati businessman and social entrepreneur, says the initiative has the potential to create a 'golden age of philanthropy' in the region. The National
Badr Jafar, an Emirati businessman and social entrepreneur, says the initiative has the potential to create a 'golden age of philanthropy' in the region. The National
Badr Jafar, an Emirati businessman and social entrepreneur, says the initiative has the potential to create a 'golden age of philanthropy' in the region. The National
Badr Jafar, an Emirati businessman and social entrepreneur, says the initiative has the potential to create a 'golden age of philanthropy' in the region. The National

NYUAD initiative to boost 'impactful philanthropy' across Middle East


Gillian Duncan
  • English
  • Arabic

A programme to study and promote philanthropy in the UAE and the region has been started in Abu Dhabi.

The Strategic Philanthropy Initiative is being run by New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) in partnership with Emirati businessman and social entrepreneur Badr Jafar.

Mr Jafar said the initiative had the potential to create a “golden age of philanthropy” in the region.

In strategic philanthropy, instead of seeing the outcome as quantum of money, you see the outcome as impact generated
Badr Jafar,
an Emirati businessman and social entrepreneur

“This is particularly true in the Mena region, where 60 per cent of the population is under the age of 25,” he said.

“Equipping our youth with the tools, resources, and infrastructure needed to boost impact using their time, talent and treasure is a massive and timely opportunity, and this collaboration with NYUAD is well-positioned to champion this cause and make a real difference.”

A 2016 Wealth-X and Arton Capital report gives insights on the philanthropic trends of ultra high-net-worth people and it shows that they will pass on $3.9 trillion to the next generation over the next decade.

Mr Jafar said strategic philanthropy describes any form of “impact-driven giving” that is evidence based, planned and followed through to achieve the intended result.

“Rather than seeing the outcome as quantum of money, you see the outcome as impact generated. That’s a fundamental shift in thinking,” Mr Jafar said.

The initiative will focus on three areas: research to understand the past, present and possible future of philanthropy in the UAE and region; education for existing and aspiring philanthropists; and bringing people together to share ideas about the practice.

It will also run a student competition, as well as a prize in philanthropy to reward and inspire others to make donations that have an impact.

Somewhere between $400bn to $1tn is distributed throughout the Muslim world each year as a result of zakat and sadaqah donations, Mr Jafar said.

“That’s one figure, but another more depressing figure, on the other hand, is the fact that one in four Muslims lives below the poverty line,” he said.

“So one can’t help feel there is perhaps a better way to ensure this huge amount of philanthropic capital really meets the objectives that it is intended for, and maximise its impact.”

NYUAD Vice Chancellor Mariet Westermann said it was exciting to see economists and political scientists, social thinkers, next generational philanthropists, policymakers and NYUAD students join forces to make their communities better through strategic philanthropy.

“This partnership will advance the study, reach, and effectiveness of strategic philanthropy in the UAE, the wider region and the world, and drive collective action for change on the most pressing social and environmental issues,” she said.

NYUAD through the years - in pictures

  • The New York University Abu Dhabi campus during construction on Saadiyat Island. The university is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Silvia Razgova / The National
    The New York University Abu Dhabi campus during construction on Saadiyat Island. The university is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Silvia Razgova / The National
  • Students attend NYU Abu Dhabi's summer academy in July, 2011. Andrew Henderson / The National
    Students attend NYU Abu Dhabi's summer academy in July, 2011. Andrew Henderson / The National
  • The NYU Abu Dhabi campus under construction in July, 2009. Sammy Dallal / The National
    The NYU Abu Dhabi campus under construction in July, 2009. Sammy Dallal / The National
  • Work continues on the campus in September, 2009. Andrew Henderson / The National
    Work continues on the campus in September, 2009. Andrew Henderson / The National
  • Accessories and apparel during NYU Abu Dhabi's opening week in September, 2010. Lee Hoagland/ The National
    Accessories and apparel during NYU Abu Dhabi's opening week in September, 2010. Lee Hoagland/ The National
  • An abstract map of Abu Dhabi and New York on a wall at the campus. Lee Hoagland / The National
    An abstract map of Abu Dhabi and New York on a wall at the campus. Lee Hoagland / The National
  • New York University Abu Dhabi's campus on Saadiyat Island. Photo: NYUAD
    New York University Abu Dhabi's campus on Saadiyat Island. Photo: NYUAD
  • The university used temporary premises, next to the Abu Dhabi Heritage foundation, until the campus on Saadiyat island was completed. Lee Hoagland / The National
    The university used temporary premises, next to the Abu Dhabi Heritage foundation, until the campus on Saadiyat island was completed. Lee Hoagland / The National
  • The first day of classes at the new campus on Saadiyat Island, in September 2014. Lee Hoagland/The National
    The first day of classes at the new campus on Saadiyat Island, in September 2014. Lee Hoagland/The National
  • NYU Abu Dhabi is a collaboration between New York University and the Abu Dhabi government. Photo: NYU Abu Dhabi
    NYU Abu Dhabi is a collaboration between New York University and the Abu Dhabi government. Photo: NYU Abu Dhabi
  • The Saadiyat Island campus in October 2014. Photo: Tamkeen
    The Saadiyat Island campus in October 2014. Photo: Tamkeen
  • Yumi Gambrill in a laboratory at the university. She discovered that a UAE plant, Cleome rupicola, contains a substance that can be used against cataracts. Photo: NYU Abu Dhabi
    Yumi Gambrill in a laboratory at the university. She discovered that a UAE plant, Cleome rupicola, contains a substance that can be used against cataracts. Photo: NYU Abu Dhabi
  • Dr Ali Trabolsi, an associate professor of chemistry at NYU Abu Dhabi, led research that could help to improve cancer treatments. Chris Whiteoak / The National
    Dr Ali Trabolsi, an associate professor of chemistry at NYU Abu Dhabi, led research that could help to improve cancer treatments. Chris Whiteoak / The National
  • The High Line at the campus, named after a park in New York City. Photo: NYU Abu Dhabi
    The High Line at the campus, named after a park in New York City. Photo: NYU Abu Dhabi
  • Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, during a visit to the university. Hamad Al Kaabi / Crown Prince Court - Abu Dhabi
    Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, during a visit to the university. Hamad Al Kaabi / Crown Prince Court - Abu Dhabi
  • Graduands receive their degree certificates during the university's ceremony in 2016. Christopher Pike / The National
    Graduands receive their degree certificates during the university's ceremony in 2016. Christopher Pike / The National
  • Award-winning Ali Al Mansoori, 16, will develop her research methods under the eye of NYU Abu Dhabi scientist, Mohamed Al Sayegh. NYU Abu Dhabi
    Award-winning Ali Al Mansoori, 16, will develop her research methods under the eye of NYU Abu Dhabi scientist, Mohamed Al Sayegh. NYU Abu Dhabi
  • Shamma Al Mazrui, Minister of State for Youth, and Vice Chancellor Alfred Bloom announce the distinguished alumni award winner during a graduation ceremony. Christopher Pike / The National
    Shamma Al Mazrui, Minister of State for Youth, and Vice Chancellor Alfred Bloom announce the distinguished alumni award winner during a graduation ceremony. Christopher Pike / The National
  • From left: Mohammad Mirza, Sangeetha Mahadevan, Hayat Hassan and Rodger Iradukunda in the university’s library on the first day of term. Lee Hoagland / The National
    From left: Mohammad Mirza, Sangeetha Mahadevan, Hayat Hassan and Rodger Iradukunda in the university’s library on the first day of term. Lee Hoagland / The National
  • The main library is designed with three oculi, which seep natural light throughout the premises and down through an elevated glass platform to the swimming pool and gym below. Lee Hoagland / The National
    The main library is designed with three oculi, which seep natural light throughout the premises and down through an elevated glass platform to the swimming pool and gym below. Lee Hoagland / The National
  • Graduands at the university's graduation ceremony in 2019. Leslie Pableo for The National
    Graduands at the university's graduation ceremony in 2019. Leslie Pableo for The National
  • A graduation ceremony at NYUAD. Leslie Pableo for The National
    A graduation ceremony at NYUAD. Leslie Pableo for The National
  • Dr Wael Rabeh, an associate professor of chemistry at the university. Photo: NYU Abu Dhabi
    Dr Wael Rabeh, an associate professor of chemistry at the university. Photo: NYU Abu Dhabi
  • Mohammad Qasaimeh, assistant professor of mechanical and biomedical engineering at NYUAD, demonstrates how the 3D-printed mechanical door opening mechanism works. Photo: Deepthi Unnikrishnan
    Mohammad Qasaimeh, assistant professor of mechanical and biomedical engineering at NYUAD, demonstrates how the 3D-printed mechanical door opening mechanism works. Photo: Deepthi Unnikrishnan
  • Social distancing signs on campus as part of Covid-19 safety measures. Courtesy: NYU Abu Dhabi
    Social distancing signs on campus as part of Covid-19 safety measures. Courtesy: NYU Abu Dhabi
SPECS
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EEngine%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%201.5-litre%204-cylinder%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPower%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20101hp%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETorque%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20135Nm%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETransmission%3C%2Fstrong%3E%3A%20Six-speed%20auto%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPrice%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20From%20Dh79%2C900%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EOn%20sale%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Now%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Tamkeen's offering
  • Option 1: 70% in year 1, 50% in year 2, 30% in year 3
  • Option 2: 50% across three years
  • Option 3: 30% across five years 

'Avengers: Infinity War'
Dir: The Russo Brothers
Starring: Chris Evans, Chris Pratt, Tom Holland, Robert Downey Junior, Scarlett Johansson, Elizabeth Olsen
Four stars

Living in...

This article is part of a guide on where to live in the UAE. Our reporters will profile some of the country’s most desirable districts, provide an estimate of rental prices and introduce you to some of the residents who call each area home.

WHY%20AAYAN%20IS%20'PERFECT%20EXAMPLE'
%3Cp%3EDavid%20White%20might%20be%20new%20to%20the%20country%2C%20but%20he%20has%20clearly%20already%20built%20up%20an%20affinity%20with%20the%20place.%3Cbr%3E%3Cbr%3EAfter%20the%20UAE%20shocked%20Pakistan%20in%20the%20semi-final%20of%20the%20Under%2019%20Asia%20Cup%20last%20month%2C%20White%20was%20hugged%20on%20the%20field%20by%20Aayan%20Khan%2C%20the%20team%E2%80%99s%20captain.%3Cbr%3E%3Cbr%3EWhite%20suggests%20that%20was%20more%20a%20sign%20of%20Aayan%E2%80%99s%20amiability%20than%20anything%20else.%20But%20he%20believes%20the%20young%20all-rounder%2C%20who%20was%20part%20of%20the%20winning%20Gulf%20Giants%20team%20last%20year%2C%20is%20just%20the%20sort%20of%20player%20the%20country%20should%20be%20seeking%20to%20produce%20via%20the%20ILT20.%3Cbr%3E%3Cbr%3E%E2%80%9CHe%20is%20a%20delightful%20young%20man%2C%E2%80%9D%20White%20said.%20%E2%80%9CHe%20played%20in%20the%20competition%20last%20year%20at%2017%2C%20and%20look%20at%20his%20development%20from%20there%20till%20now%2C%20and%20where%20he%20is%20representing%20the%20UAE.%3Cbr%3E%3Cbr%3E%E2%80%9CHe%20was%20influential%20in%20the%20U19%20team%20which%20beat%20Pakistan.%20He%20is%20the%20perfect%20example%20of%20what%20we%20are%20all%20trying%20to%20achieve%20here.%3Cbr%3E%3Cbr%3E%E2%80%9CIt%20is%20about%20the%20development%20of%20players%20who%20are%20going%20to%20represent%20the%20UAE%20and%20go%20on%20to%20help%20make%20UAE%20a%20force%20in%20world%20cricket.%E2%80%9D%C2%A0%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Scorebox

Sharjah Wanderers 20-25 Dubai Tigers (After extra-time)

Wanderers

Tries Gormley, Penalty

Cons Flaherty

Pens Flaherty 2

Tigers

Tries O’Donnell, Gibbons, Kelly

Cons Caldwell 2

Pens Caldwell, Cross

Company Profile

Company name: Fine Diner

Started: March, 2020

Co-founders: Sami Elayan, Saed Elayan and Zaid Azzouka

Based: Dubai

Industry: Technology and food delivery

Initial investment: Dh75,000

Investor: Dtec Startupbootcamp

Future plan: Looking to raise $400,000

Total sales: Over 1,000 deliveries in three months

COMPANY PROFILE

Name: Qyubic
Started: October 2023
Founder: Namrata Raina
Based: Dubai
Sector: E-commerce
Current number of staff: 10
Investment stage: Pre-seed
Initial investment: Undisclosed 

Listen here

Subscribe to Business Extra

• Apple Podcasts

From Zero

Artist: Linkin Park

Label: Warner Records

Number of tracks: 11

Rating: 4/5

Kandahar%20
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EDirector%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Ric%20Roman%20Waugh%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EStars%3A%C2%A0%3C%2Fstrong%3EGerard%20Butler%2C%20Navid%20Negahban%2C%20Ali%20Fazal%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3ERating%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%202.5%2F5%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
When Umm Kulthum performed in Abu Dhabi

  

 

 

 

Known as The Lady of Arabic Song, Umm Kulthum performed in Abu Dhabi on November 28, 1971, as part of celebrations for the fifth anniversary of the accession of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as Ruler of Abu Dhabi. A concert hall was constructed for the event on land that is now Al Nahyan Stadium, behind Al Wahda Mall. The audience were treated to many of Kulthum's most well-known songs as part of the sold-out show, including Aghadan Alqak and Enta Omri.

 
UAE%20v%20West%20Indies
%3Cp%3EFirst%20ODI%20-%20Sunday%2C%20June%204%20%0D%3Cbr%3ESecond%20ODI%20-%20Tuesday%2C%20June%206%20%0D%3Cbr%3EThird%20ODI%20-%20Friday%2C%20June%209%26nbsp%3B%3C%2Fp%3E%0A%3Cp%3EMatches%20at%20Sharjah%20Cricket%20Stadium.%20All%20games%20start%20at%204.30pm%0D%3Cbr%3E%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EUAE%20squad%3C%2Fstrong%3E%0D%3Cbr%3EMuhammad%20Waseem%20(captain)%2C%20Aayan%20Khan%2C%20Adithya%20Shetty%2C%20Ali%20Naseer%2C%20Ansh%20Tandon%2C%20Aryansh%20Sharma%2C%20Asif%20Khan%2C%20Basil%20Hameed%2C%20Ethan%20D%E2%80%99Souza%2C%20Fahad%20Nawaz%2C%20Jonathan%20Figy%2C%20Junaid%20Siddique%2C%20Karthik%20Meiyappan%2C%20Lovepreet%20Singh%2C%20Matiullah%2C%20Mohammed%20Faraazuddin%2C%20Muhammad%20Jawadullah%2C%20Rameez%20Shahzad%2C%20Rohan%20Mustafa%2C%20Sanchit%20Sharma%2C%20Vriitya%20Aravind%2C%20Zahoor%20Khan%0D%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
TOURNAMENT INFO

Women’s World Twenty20 Qualifier

Jul 3- 14, in the Netherlands
The top two teams will qualify to play at the World T20 in the West Indies in November

UAE squad
Humaira Tasneem (captain), Chamani Seneviratne, Subha Srinivasan, Neha Sharma, Kavisha Kumari, Judit Cleetus, Chaya Mughal, Roopa Nagraj, Heena Hotchandani, Namita D’Souza, Ishani Senevirathne, Esha Oza, Nisha Ali, Udeni Kuruppuarachchi

Updated: September 28, 2021, 4:15 AM