Sheikh Hamdan launches ‘Rashid Villages’ in memory of his late brother Sheikh Rashid

 Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, on Friday launched ‘Rashid Villages,’ a global humanitarian initiative aimed at preserving and extending the legacy of his late brother, Sheikh Rashid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Coinciding with the tenth anniversary of Sheikh Rashid’s passing, the initiative seeks to carry forward his enduring humanitarian values by establishing model villages that provide underprivileged families with access to housing, education, healthcare, and social services, ensuring the foundations of a dignified life.

Sheikh Hamdan stressed that the late Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed was a true champion of humanity, as much as he was in the sporting arena, leaving behind a legacy of generosity and noble values.

Sheikh Hamdan added the late Sheikh Rashid was shaped from an early age by the noble values inspired by his father His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. These values were the essence of his life, giving him a spirit of leadership and responsibility, and driving his constant devotion to acts of generosity.

Sheikh Hamdan emphasised that Sheikh Rashid was a role model in every field, passing on a legacy of compassion and commitment, and values that continue to live on through initiatives that bring goodness to people.

“My brother’s impact will remain alive through Dubai’s humanitarian projects and initiatives that carry hope and goodness to the world,” Sheikh Hamdan said. “Today, we launch ‘Rashid Villages’, an ambitious humanitarian initiative that bears the name of my late brother, 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.”

The global humanitarian initiative aims to build integrated model villages providing underprivileged families with the essentials of a decent life from housing to education, healthcare, social services and economic opportunities, as part of a comprehensive development framework that redefines humanitarian support and creates an environment where people can move from need to empowerment, productivity, and stability.

The first phase of the project will commence in the Republic of Kenya, where the first Rashid Village will be constructed over an area of 72 dunums (7.2 hectares), following sustainable principles that prioritise the use of renewable energy sources.

This phase will include fully furnished homes that provide stability and dignity for families, in addition to a large mosque and a multi-purpose hall with a capacity of over 500 people to host events and community activities.