MBRCH Becomes Charitable Establishment Under New Decree

A decree issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice‑President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has officially changed the name of the long‑standing philanthropic body from the “Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charity and Humanitarian Establishment” to the “Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable Establishment.” The legal change underscores the foundation’s continued and expansive remit in advancing humanitarian and charitable endeavours at home and overseas.

The legislative move originates from Decree No. 36 of 2025, replacing the original founding decree issued in 1997. The shift in name signals a refreshed legal identity for the foundation, while reaffirming its status as a non‑profit entity operating in the public interest. Sheikh Mohammed’s oversight remains integral, with the foundation guided by him and administered by its Supreme Chairman.

Under the revised mandate, the Charitable Establishment retains its broad scope of operations. It continues to deliver initiatives across social welfare, education, health, culture, religion, development programmes and disaster relief both within the UAE and abroad. The foundation sustains its support for health projects—ranging from disease prevention to medical access—assists students, educators, and institutions, caters for financially vulnerable families, and responds swiftly to emergencies.

The decree ensures the foundation remains compliant with regulatory frameworks enforced by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department and the Community Development Authority in Dubai. These entities oversee non‑profit governance under a range of applicable legislation including Law No. 12 of 2017, Decrees No. 9 of 2015 and 2022, and Executive Council Resolution No. 26 of 2013. The new decree holds primacy in case of conflict with earlier decisions, though prior arrangements such as Decree No. 49 of 2023 on the Supreme Chairman’s appointment and Resolution No. 29 of 2023 regarding the Board of Trustees remain valid until formally replaced.