Abu Dhabi-based real estate leader Aldar has entered a three-year strategic partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, aiming to enhance social responsibility and advance community development across the emirate. The collaboration reinforces Aldar’s commitment to supporting Abu Dhabi’s social priorities, with a significant focus on education and community wellbeing.
The agreement was signed by Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aldar, and H.E. Abdullah Humaid Al Ameri, Director General of Ma’an, in a ceremony attended by H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Aldar, and H.E. Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development.
A Strategic Focus On Community Development
Under the new agreement, Aldar will provide funding for a diverse portfolio of social initiatives. Key programs include the Blue Collar Activation Programme and the Thrive Scholarship Fund, which will now operate as a joint initiative to expand its reach to more students.
A central element of the partnership is the establishment of a new Social Impact Fund designed to drive sustainable and measurable change within the community. Beyond direct funding, Aldar will contribute in-kind support, facilitate employee volunteering programs, and leverage its Darna loyalty platform for digital engagement, embedding social contribution into the daily lives of its customers.
Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aldar, commented on the partnership, stating, “At Aldar, we view social impact not as an obligation, but as core responsibility, and one that drives resilience, unlocks opportunity, and helps shape the society we are building together. Our partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an showcases how the private sector can play a critical role in delivering solutions that are inclusive, scalable, and aligned with the UAE’s broader social ambitions.”
Public-Private Partnership As A Pillar For Growth
This collaboration underscores the increasing importance of public-private partnerships in achieving Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision for an inclusive and sustainable future. Since 2020, Aldar’s initial collaboration with Ma’an has already made a significant impact, benefiting nearly 3,000 individuals through 11 projects in healthcare, education, and social welfare.
His Excellency Abdullah Humaid Al Ameri, Director General of Ma’an, said, “Through this partnership with Aldar, the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an will continue to support initiatives that address key social priorities in Abu Dhabi and create tangible impact for different community groups. Together with Aldar, we will demonstrate the power of partnerships in amplifying the impact on the community, promote community development and build a cooperative, active and inclusive society.”
The partnership’s past successes include the region’s first two Social Impact Bonds, which have created meaningful outcomes for People of Determination, improved employment prospects for Emirati talent, and provided support for families throughout Abu Dhabi.
About Aldar
Aldar is the leading real estate developer, manager, and investor in Abu Dhabi, with a growing presence across the United Arab Emirates, the Middle East North Africa, and Europe. The company has two core business segments, Aldar Development and Aldar Investment. Aldar Development is a master developer of a 62 million sqm strategic landbank, creating integrated and thriving communities. Aldar Investment houses a core asset management business comprising a portfolio of more than AED 47 billion worth of investment grade and income-generating real estate assets diversified across retail, residential, commercial, logistics, and hospitality segments.
About The Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an
Established in 2019 by the Department of Community Development Abu Dhabi (DCD), The Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an is the Abu Dhabi government’s official channel to receive social contributions. It is dedicated to uniting community efforts and fostering a culture of giving by collecting contributions, directing them towards social priorities, empowering social enterprises, and promoting volunteering to build a cohesive community.
Source: Zawya
