Dubai’s endowment assets reached AED13.5 billion ($3.67 billion) in 2025, marking a 22% increase from AED11.1 billion in 2024, according to the Dubai Endowment Assets Report 2025 released by the Endowment and Minors’ Trust Foundation (Awqaf Dubai).

The report revealed that the total number of endowments in the emirate rose to 1,294, established by 604 endowers. This reflects growing community engagement in philanthropic initiatives and the expanding role of endowments in supporting sustainable development.

Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said the emirate’s endowment ecosystem has evolved into a pioneering model for institutional charitable work, guided by the vision of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

He said the system aims to strengthen a culture of sustainable giving while maximizing social and economic impact to support long-term development and improve quality of life.

Sheikh Hamdan also highlighted the role of Awqaf Dubai in expanding the contributions of endowers and ensuring the sustainability of endowment assets. He also commended citizens, residents, and institutions for supporting initiatives that continue to benefit future generations.

According to the report, real estate accounts for the majority of endowment assets, valued at $3.67 billion, while financial assets total $408.4 million. This reflects the diversification of the endowment portfolio to enhance sustainability and returns.

The report further revealed that endowments established by men reached $2.12 billion, while those established by women totalled $353.9 million. Institutional endowments amounted to $1.17 billion.

In terms of governance, 714 endowments valued at $289.6 million are managed under the supervision of Awqaf Dubai, while 580 endowments worth $2.61 billion are managed under third-party supervision.

Issa Al Ghurair, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Awqaf Dubai, said the growth reflects the success of policies aimed at strengthening the endowment sector and improving its sustainability.

“The growth recorded in the value of endowment assets during 2025 reflects the success of the policies and strategies adopted by the Foundation to develop the endowment sector and enhance its efficiency and sustainability,” he said, adding that Awqaf Dubai continues to manage and develop assets in line with global governance and sustainable investment practices.

Ali Al Mutawa, Secretary General of Awqaf Dubai, added that the results demonstrate the effectiveness of the foundation’s operational and investment frameworks, which aim to maximize the developmental impact of endowments while ensuring transparency and long-term sustainability.

The report also highlighted Awqaf Dubai’s focus on launching innovative endowment initiatives designed to expand participation from individuals and institutions. These initiatives aim to further strengthen the role of endowments as a driver of social and economic development.