Aldar and Ma’an Join Forces to Drive Social Responsibility and Advance Education Initiatives in Abu Dhabi

Aldar has signed a three-year partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to supporting national priorities through targeted, measurable initiatives that strengthen community resilience and wellbeing.

H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Aldar and H.E. Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development attended a ceremony to witness the agreement being signed by Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Offer of Aldar, and H.E. Abdullah Humaid Al Ameri, Director General, Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an. The partnership reflects Aldar’s approach to supporting Abu Dhabi’s social agenda during the UAE’s Year of Community, and in preparation for the Year of Family in 2026.

Under the new agreement, Aldar will fund a portfolio of social initiatives in Abu Dhabi. This includes the Blue Collar Activation Programme, the Thrive Scholarship Fund – which will now operate as a joint initiative with the Authority to reach more students - and a new Social Impact Fund. The partnership also extends to in-kind support, employee volunteering programmes, and digital engagement through Aldar’s Darna loyalty platform, embedding social contribution into the lives of Aldar’s customers across Abu Dhabi.

Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aldar said: “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. As we deepen this collaboration, our focus remains on outcomes that deliver tangible value, from education and employment to wider community wellbeing. Looking ahead, we remain committed to expanding our joint efforts and supporting Abu Dhabi’s social priorities through high-impact, purpose-driven programmes.”

His Excellency Abdullah Humaid Al Ameri, Director General, Authority of Social Contribution – 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. As Abu Dhabi Government’s official channel to receive social contributions, we connect the community, public, private, and civil society through channeling contributions to projects that address social priorities and enhance the quality of life for Abu Dhabi community members. 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.”

Since 2020, Aldar’s partnership with the Authority has positively impacted almost 3,000 people, contributing to 11 impactful projects across healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social welfare. This includes the region’s first two Social Impact Bonds, which have delivered meaningful outcomes for People of Determination, enhanced employment prospects for local talent, and supported families across Abu Dhabi.

This partnership underscores Aldar and the Authority’s belief that public-private collaboration is a pivotal pillar Abu Dhabi’s vision for a sustainable and inclusive future. Together the companies are championing innovative models of giving that align with the UAE’s social priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.