Edge of Life Campaign Raises Over Dh2.8 Billion to Fight Global Child Hunger

In a remarkable display of global solidarity and generosity, the UAE’s “Edge of Life” campaign, launched by H.H. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has raised over AED 2.8 billion (Dh2.8 billion)—far exceeding its initial target before the end of Ramadan.

The humanitarian initiative, aimed at tackling child hunger and malnutrition, drew contributions from more than 44,000 donors, including individuals, businesses, and global philanthropic organisations.

A Mission Beyond Expectations

Originally launched on February 13, 2026, the campaign set out to raise AED 1 billion to support children facing hunger across the globe. However, the overwhelming response pushed total contributions to AED 2.822 billion, more than double the target.

The initiative aims to rescue five million children from hunger and prevent nearly 30 million others from falling into life-threatening malnutrition—an ambitious goal that reflects the scale of the global crisis.

Global Collaboration at the Core

The campaign operates under the umbrella of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives and is backed by leading international organisations including UNICEF, Save the Children, Children's Investment Fund Foundation, and Action Against Hunger.

A major highlight of the initiative is a $300 million partnership between MBRGI, UNICEF and CIFF, designed to scale up life-saving nutrition programmes worldwide.

Massive Support from Global Donors

Significant contributions poured in from global philanthropic institutions and foundations, including major pledges from organisations such as the Aga Khan Foundation, Gates Foundation, and Tata Trusts, among others.

In addition, innovative fundraising efforts—like charity auctions and digital donation platforms—helped mobilise resources from across the UAE and beyond.

Addressing a Critical Global Crisis

The urgency behind the campaign is stark. Globally, five children under the age of five die every minute due to hunger and malnutrition, highlighting the need for sustained intervention and global cooperation.

The initiative focuses particularly on conflict zones, disaster-hit regions, and vulnerable communities, where children are most at risk.

UAE’s Expanding Humanitarian Vision

The “Edge of Life” campaign builds on a series of successful Ramadan initiatives led by Sheikh Mohammed, including the “10 Million Meals,” “100 Million Meals,” and “1 Billion Meals” campaigns, each expanding the UAE’s global humanitarian footprint.

Leaders behind the initiative emphasised that philanthropy is not seasonal but a core national value, with the UAE continuing to invest in long-term, sustainable solutions to global challenges.

A Global Call to Action

While the campaign has surpassed expectations, its message is clear—ending child hunger requires sustained global effort. Governments, organisations, and individuals worldwide are being urged to join hands to ensure that no child is left behind.

As the numbers show, collective action can deliver powerful results. The challenge now lies in turning this momentum into lasting change for millions of children across the world.