Dubai Crown Prince Launches 'Rashid Villages' Global Humanitarian Project in Brother's Memory

A Lasting Tribute to a Humanitarian Legacy

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, has officially launched the 'Rashid Villages' global humanitarian project. The initiative, unveiled on September 19, 2025, coincides with the tenth anniversary of the passing of his elder brother, Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who died on September 19, 2015, at the age of 33 from a heart attack. The project aims to perpetuate Sheikh Rashid's legacy of compassion and generosity by establishing model villages for underserved communities across the globe.

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the profound impact of his late brother, stating, 'My brother's impact will remain alive through Dubai's humanitarian projects and initiatives that carry hope and goodness to the world.' He described 'Rashid Villages' as 'a lasting tribute to his profound humanitarian legacy and a testament to the values that defined his life, ensuring that his impact endures both in Dubai and beyond.'

Comprehensive Development for Underserved Communities

The 'Rashid Villages' project is designed to provide a holistic ecosystem of support, moving families from reliance on aid to empowerment and stability. Each model village will offer essential services and infrastructure, including:

• Housing: Fully furnished homes to provide stability and dignity for families.
• Education: A school capable of serving 320 students, with access to digital learning through the 'Rashid Education Project,' a partnership with the Digital School under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI).
• Healthcare: A health center offering medical and therapeutic care, supported by comprehensive infrastructure including sanitation systems and water supplies.
• Social Services: A large mosque and a multi-purpose hall with a capacity for over 500 people for community activities.
• Economic Empowerment: Endowment-based commercial outlets to stimulate local economic activity and provide sustainable income sources, alongside vocational training programs and micro-enterprise support.
• Youth Development: A football pitch and a sports academy to nurture young talent.

First Village in Kenya and Future Expansion

The inaugural 'Rashid Village' will be constructed in Kenya, spanning an area of 7.2 hectares (72 dunums). This first phase is expected to benefit approximately 1,700 people. The village will adhere to sustainable design principles, prioritizing renewable energy sources and featuring modern infrastructure such as fire safety systems, security cameras, and solar-powered lighting.

The initiative is not a one-time endeavor but a long-term strategic mission. Sheikh Hamdan confirmed plans to expand the project, with one new model village to be constructed each year, steadily extending the reach of Sheikh Rashid's humanitarian legacy to vulnerable communities worldwide.