Awqaf Abu Dhabi to launch a digital platform for the management of endowments and
provision of services, as well as focus on training programs for youth to encourage their
participation
Awqaf Abu Dhabi is led by the vision to be the leading organization in the management
and development of endowments and minors’ funds, ensuring sustainable development
and socio-economic prosperity
Setting a model in endowment management, Awqaf Abu Dhabi operates through the
circular economy model to grow endowments from ‘sustainable’ to ‘super-efficient’
Established under the leadership and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President, and operating under the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Awqaf Abu Dhabi is mandated with regulating, preserving and developing endowed assets, ensuring the distribution of profits, and creating sustainable value. Among the key initiatives by Awqaf Abu Dhabi is the upcoming launch of a comprehensive digital platform for the management of endowments and provision of services, as well as focusing on training programs for youth to encourage their participation in endowment management. The entity is also strengthening partnerships with universities and research
centers to support innovation in endowment management. To mobilise community participation and strengthen awareness and engagement, Awqaf Abu Dhabi has launched its new social media channels. The public can stay updated with the latest initiatives, announcements and other activities related to the organisation via Instagram (@adawqaf), Facebook (@adawqaf) and X (@adawqaf).
Setting a new model in endowment management, Awqaf Abu Dhabi operates through the
circular economy model with consistent returns on investment to ensure continued influx of
finances enabling it to operate in a sustainable manner and taking the concept of circular
economy to new heights. Each endowment covers its operational costs and generates revenue
to invest in other opportunities and have a positive impact on the society.
With the circular economy principle, Awqaf Abu Dhabi ensures that all endowments contribute
beyond the standard format. The adoption of this unique process allows the entity to grow the
endowments from sustainable to “super-efficient” investments that deliver perpetual returns
which in turn are used as per the Awqaf Abu Dhabi mandates. Other initiatives include
digitization of endowment records to facilitate data management and improve work efficiency,
launching endowment initiatives to maximize returns and diversify sources of income
These approaches reflect the global trends where there is an increased focus by investors with
a global study reporting that 65 percent of investors are diversifying away from traditional asset
classes over the next three years, with a focus on socially responsible investments. According
to the International Journal of Islamic Studies, waqf investment funds play a significant role in the
development of societies by catalyzing economic empowerment programs and project financing,
and highlights the perpetuation of endowment benefits, due to their permanence in supporting
and developing society.
HE Fahad Abdul Qader Al Qassim, Director General of Awqaf Abu Dhabi, said: “Since our
inception under the new identity of Awqaf Abu Dhabi, we have been focused on strengthening
the participation of the wider community in endowments and inspiring the community to partner
in a noble cause that has long-term benefits for all sections of the society. The spirit of waqf is
deeply ingrained in our culture and we are committed to maximising Waqf investments and
returns for the collective welfare of society.”
He also added: “We are transforming our services to be aligned with the aspirations of the
community, and to be in tune with the fast-changing trends. Accordingly, we are strengthening
our technological infrastructure to enhance operational efficiency and strengthening cooperation
with the private sector to develop innovative endowment projects. We believe it is part of the
social commitment and moral responsibility of all community members to be actively engaged in
endowment projects for the long-term prosperity and progress of all sections of the society.”
Offering expert advice on setting up new Waqf endowments, including legal and financial
structuring in compliance with local and international legislation, Awqaf Abu Dhabi also
oversees the assets included in Waqf. Committed to contributing positively to the well-being of
the society, the strategies and operations of Awqaf Abu Dhabi are aligned with the vision of the
nation and its leadership.
Awqaf Abu Dhabi also aims to strengthen cooperation agreements with governmental, private,
and civil community organizations, and to establish advisory councils with representatives from
different entities to support decision-making.
With an extensive portfolio of assets under management, including a robust portfolio of income
generating assets, Awqaf Abu Dhabi follow the highest standards in wealth management
practices and also develop programmes aimed at empowering the beneficiaries of the Waqf
through educational scholarships, healthcare services, and social welfare initiatives, among
others. Community members can contact Awqaf Abu Dhabi for more details on endowment
projects and investment opportunities.
Among notable recent partnerships, Awqaf Abu Dhabi and the Department of Health – Abu
Dhabi (DoH) launched a Dh1 billion healthcare endowment fund over five years to further
advance endowment work towards specialised healthcare needs of the community. The aim of
the endowment is to meet specialised healthcare needs in Abu Dhabi, and to provide
sustainable financing to create a positive social impact in the field of healthcare.
