Awqaf Abu Dhabi and MAIR Group Sign MoU for AED 200 Million Development Projects
Abu Dhabi, UAE – March 15, 2026 – Awqaf Abu Dhabi and MAIR Group PJSC announced a Memorandum of Understanding to implement AED 200 million in development projects on endowment land. The partnership will boost sustainable returns for the Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans initiative, supporting UAE’s push for modern endowment models that blend philanthropy with commercial real estate investment.
Announcement Specifics
Awqaf Abu Dhabi, the Endowments and Minors’ Funds Authority, will provide the land, while MAIR Group’s real estate arm, Makani Real Estate, handles development, management, and implementation. The projects focus on real estate and investment assets in Abu Dhabi, designed to ensure stable returns and adherence to best practices in endowment asset management.
Stakeholder Perspectives
Awqaf Abu Dhabi:
“This agreement represents an advanced model for leveraging endowment assets within a sustainable investment framework that enhances their efficiency and multiplies their social and economic impact.”
— H.E. Fahd Abdulqader Al Qassim, Director General at Awqaf Abu Dhabi
Why it matters: This underscores the shift from traditional charity models to investment-driven endowments that amplify funding for social programs.
MAIR Group:
“At MAIR Group, we believe in the importance of partnerships with national entities to support initiatives that deliver sustainable social impact.”
— Nehayan Hamad Alameri, Managing Director and Group CEO at MAIR Group
Why it matters: The statement highlights private sector commitment to national welfare initiatives through structured public-private partnerships.
Industry Context
Awqaf Abu Dhabi, established in May 2023, is building a modern endowment ecosystem with strong governance frameworks. MAIR Group (ADX: MAIR) specializes in grocery retail operations including ADCOOP and SPAR, alongside commercial real estate development, contributing to UAE’s local economy and food security objectives.
This MoU exemplifies UAE’s innovative approach to endowment sustainability, addressing rising social needs without taxpayer burden. The initiative supports orphan care under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aligning with national priorities for economic stability and social welfare. The model sets a precedent for MENA region partnerships between public endowment authorities and private real estate developers.
Conclusion
This partnership paves the way for expanded collaborations, transforming endowments into engines of social and economic growth in Abu Dhabi and establishing a replicable framework for sustainable philanthropic investment across the region.
Sources: Zawya, Abu Dhabi Media Office, Mid-East.Info
