Shaikha Jawaher’s Humanitarian Legacy: From Sharjah to the Global Stage
An overview of the initiatives and contributions made by Shaikha Jawaher bint Mohammed al-Qasimi in the field of humanitarian aid and community development.
Shaikha Jawaher bint Mohammed al-Qasimi, the spouse of the ruler of Sharjah, has established a comprehensive framework for charitable work that contributes significantly to development and empowerment in various forms.
Her commitment to humanitarian causes has led to the establishment of numerous institutions aimed at supporting families, youth, women, and the wider community.
Since the early 1980s, Shaikha Jawaher has laid the groundwork for a sustainable system that focuses on social development.
Her institutions currently include 25 specialized organizations working in a coordinated manner to serve the community, with a notable impact on individual households across the emirate of Sharjah.
The range of initiatives encompasses family support, empowerment of children and youth, improved healthcare access, and educational opportunities for women and young people.
In alignment with the proclaimed 2025 'Year of Community', a budget of 751 million UAE Dirhams has been allocated for community institutions directed by Shaikha Jawaher, reflecting a 6% increase compared to the previous year.
This budget underscores Sharjah’s commitment to fostering a cohesive and progressive society, continuing a journey of altruism that has benefitted millions both within the UAE and internationally.
Significantly, her humanitarian efforts extend beyond local initiatives to global outreach through the Big Heart Foundation, which has become a symbol of international humanitarian work.
The foundation supports various relief and development projects in health, education, and refugee care, leveraging Shaikha Jawaher’s leadership.
In 2013, Shaikha Jawaher was recognized by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) as a prominent advocate for refugee children, a title she reaffirmed in 2024 due to her ongoing contributions towards improving the lives of refugees.
Her initiatives have positively impacted over six million individuals worldwide, showcasing her deep commitment to humanitarian efforts.
The broad scope of Shaikha Jawaher’s work illustrates a steadfast dedication to uplifting communities and responding to global humanitarian crises through proactive measures and sustainable development initiatives.