Abu Dhabi is taking a major step in modernizing its endowment sector through a strategic partnership between the Endowments and Minors’ Funds Authority (Awqaf Abu Dhabi) and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB). The collaboration aims to advance the Emirate’s endowment framework, drive digital transformation, and expand sustainable giving opportunities for the community. By leveraging innovative banking solutions and Sharia-compliant financial services, this partnership seeks to create a more transparent, efficient, and impactful endowment ecosystem in Abu Dhabi.
Supporting Endowment Organizations with Modern Financial Tools
Under this partnership, Awqaf Abu Dhabi and ADIB will introduce an integrated system to support licensed endowment organizations across the Emirate. These include companies, institutions, real estate units, farms, and other certified endowment structures. By offering dedicated bank accounts and preferential banking services, ADIB provides these entities with tools that enhance transparency, accountability, and long-term financial sustainability.
The bank will extend a range of services tailored to the needs of endowment entities regulated by Awqaf Abu Dhabi. These include online banking access, payment and collection solutions, payroll services, and customized account management tools. By improving operational efficiency and governance, these services will help endowment organizations operate more effectively and ensure their activities align with regulatory standards.
Enabling Community Contributions Through Secure Channels
One of the key benefits of this partnership is the creation of new channels for community members to contribute directly to approved endowment portfolios. Through ADIB’s mobile and online platforms, donors can securely support a variety of causes overseen by Awqaf Abu Dhabi. These include initiatives focused on orphans and vulnerable families, healthcare, education, social welfare, and overall community development.
All contributions are deposited into designated accounts to guarantee transparency and compliance with Sharia principles. This ensures that donations are managed responsibly and directed toward projects that deliver lasting impact. The digital tools provided by ADIB make giving more accessible and convenient, allowing donors to contribute anytime, from anywhere, and with full confidence in how their funds are used.
Leadership Perspectives on the Partnership
His Excellency Fahad Abdul Qader Al Qassim, Director General of Awqaf Abu Dhabi, emphasized that the collaboration strengthens the authority’s mission to create a trustworthy and efficient endowment ecosystem. He stated that every contribution is safeguarded, governed, and directed to where it can deliver real and meaningful impact for the community.
Mohamed Abdelbary, Group CEO of ADIB, highlighted that the partnership represents the bank’s commitment to advancing the UAE’s endowment sector through innovation and digitalization. He also pointed out that the initiative promotes financial inclusion while reinforcing values of transparency, governance, and social responsibility. Both leaders agree that the collaboration will not only improve operations for endowment organizations but also enhance the experience and trust of donors contributing to social causes.
Strengthening Oversight and Regulatory Framework
In addition to providing financial tools, the partnership reinforces Awqaf Abu Dhabi’s supervisory and regulatory role. Clear oversight mechanisms and sector-wide compliance measures have been established to ensure endowment organizations operate in accordance with best practices. This framework positions Abu Dhabi as a regional leader in modern, transparent, and impactful endowment management.
By working with leading national financial institutions, Awqaf Abu Dhabi is creating a robust endowment ecosystem that can drive meaningful social outcomes. The partnership ensures that charitable contributions are managed effectively, with clear accountability and governance standards, while also fostering trust among donors and stakeholders.
Promoting Social Welfare Through Sustainable Endowments
The partnership between Awqaf Abu Dhabi and ADIB opens new opportunities to channel resources into socially impactful projects. Endowments play a critical role in supporting education, healthcare, and social welfare initiatives. By making it easier for organizations to manage funds efficiently and for individuals to contribute securely, the collaboration strengthens the ability of the community to support vulnerable groups.
Moreover, the integration of digital tools allows for better tracking and reporting of contributions, ensuring transparency and building donor confidence. This approach aligns with global best practices in endowment management, where accountability and measurable impact are key to sustaining long-term community benefits.

Driving Digital Transformation in the Endowment Sector
Digital transformation is a central aspect of this partnership. By introducing online banking solutions, payment collection tools, and customized account management platforms, ADIB is enabling endowment organizations to modernize their operations. This transformation not only increases efficiency but also simplifies administrative processes, reduces the risk of errors, and ensures that funds are allocated effectively to support community projects.
The use of digital channels also enhances accessibility for donors. Through secure online platforms, individuals can contribute to causes they care about, track their donations, and understand the impact of their giving. This combination of digital innovation and Sharia-compliant financial services creates a modern framework for endowment management in Abu Dhabi.
Positioning Abu Dhabi as a Regional Leader
By implementing this partnership, Awqaf Abu Dhabi and ADIB are positioning the Emirate as a regional leader in endowment management. The integrated framework ensures that endowment funds are used transparently, ethically, and effectively, setting a benchmark for other regions to follow.
The collaboration reflects a broader commitment to social responsibility, governance, and community engagement. By combining regulatory oversight, modern banking solutions, and secure giving channels, Abu Dhabi is creating an endowment ecosystem that can deliver measurable social impact, build trust among donors, and strengthen the overall community.
Conclusion
The strategic partnership between Awqaf Abu Dhabi and ADIB marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Emirate’s endowment sector. By integrating digital solutions, Sharia-compliant financial services, and community-focused initiatives, the collaboration enhances transparency, governance, and operational efficiency.
This initiative not only strengthens endowment organizations but also empowers the community to contribute securely to meaningful causes. With clear oversight mechanisms, innovative banking tools, and a focus on long-term impact, Abu Dhabi is setting a new standard for endowment management in the region. The partnership demonstrates how modern financial solutions can be combined with traditional values to create a sustainable, transparent, and socially impactful endowment ecosystem that benefits everyone.
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