Dubai-UAE: The champions of Arab Hope Makers are the stars of a glamorous humanitarian excellence celebration where the champions were rewarded during a glittering awards ceremony in Dubai on February 15, 2026. The occasion, which took place at the legendary Coca-Cola Arena, saw leaders, philanthropists, social innovators and dignitaries join in honouring motivational people who have devoted their lives to empowering communities in the Arab world and beyond.
The ceremony, which was chaired by the Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is the Deputy Prime Minister and the minister of defence of the UAE was a strong force to the spirit of generosity, compassion and hope the Arab Hope Makers project aims to create.
Tracing The Spirit Of Arab Hope Makers And Their Humanity
The Arab Hope Makers project was started in line with the dreams of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is the Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai. The programme recognizes humanitarians whose efforts have made a genuine measurable difference in the lives of others- fortifying social development, aiding vulnerable communities and addressing immediate issues of human concern.
Since its launch in 2017, Arab Hope Makers has become one of the most renowned and admired humanitarian websites in the Arab world drawing hundreds of thousands of nominees across the region. It emphasizes the value of service, caring and community influence, providing winners not only with recognition but also with major financial contribution. The awards are not simple celebrations of success, but they contribute to amplifying change-making efforts where they are most needed.
Arab Hope Makers Winners: 2026 Celebration
Three outstanding people were identified as winners of the Arab Hope Makers award at this year ceremony and awarded Dh1 million each in recognition of their outstanding contribution:
1. Fouzia Jbara Mahmoudi: Champion for Children
Moroccan humanitarian Fouzia Jbara Mahmoudi, the leader of the 2026 Arab Hope Makers, was identified as the most influential in the health care of children. Mahmoudi, the Senior Regional Vice-President of Middle East and North Africa, Operation Smile, has assisted over 19,000 children to get life altering cleft operations, thus not only restoring their smiles but also their faith and hope. Her work is an example of how immensely positive impact can be made upon vulnerable populations by people who have a strong will.
2. Hind Al Hajeri: Giving Homes And Hope
Also a winner in the Arab Hope Makers was Kuwait-born Hind Al Hajeri, founder of Fatima House, a residential home in Zanzibar, which accommodates orphaned children. The institution has blossomed under her leadership and her support network has increased and she has helped many lives in need through the provision of nurturing environments, education and other necessary care to the children in need, under her leadership.
3. Abderrahmane Rais: Supporting Widows and Families
Abderrahmane Rais, a Moroccan social entrepreneur who was the third winner, was identified as one who helped widows and women in debt problems. Rais has assisted to change the lives of women and children in difficult situations through the charitable projects which primarily aim to rescue and empower the families with financial difficulties. His commitment to social improvement echoes the same spirit of the Arab Hope Makers program.
A Ceremony Of Inspiration And Influence
The Dubai award event attracted prominent personalities, philanthropists and social impact movers and shakers within the region, which highlighted that the UAE was doing the right thing by encouraging humanitarian action and serving society. The sentiments expressed by Sheikh Hamdan at the occasion were that of the initiative: that all people and organisations that endeavour to serve others are the real sense of hope.
Not only do the Arab Hope Makers praise remarkable work but it also motivates a culture of giving to reach a larger population. The young people in the Arab world are examples who love the winner, who are within the community and demonstrate that compassion and commitment can uplift the community and make a difference that can be experienced in a long lasting way.
Building A Legacy Of Hope
As the Arab Hope Makers project keeps expanding, its impact breaks across national boundaries and industries- making more individuals join in the humanitarian activities. In every issue, the programme outlines the strength of hope as a crucial element in eliminating social problems and building a better future for the communities across the Arab world.
By engaging in projects such as these, the UAE is also looking to establish itself as a place of humanitarian creativity and cooperation, as well as a reminder to the world that it is possible to truly change things by starting with compassion, bravery and a willingness to serve.
Also read: President Of UAE And Qatar Emir Strengthen Fraternal Relations And Cooperation In The Region
