The Role of Educational Endowments in the United Arab Emirates in Achieving Sustainable Development

Abstract

This study explores the expanding role of educational endowments in the United Arab Emirates as a sustainable financing mechanism supporting quality education and equal opportunities, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 4 on quality education. The UAE presents a unique model that integrates religious values with innovative institutional practices to modernize endowment use for development. Addressing a gap in prior research, this study examines the legal and institutional frameworks of educational endowments and their role in advancing the SDGs, focusing on initiatives like the Mohammed bin Rashid Global Centre for Endowment Consultancy and digital endowment projects. Using a descriptive-analytical methodology, the research reviews national and local efforts and analyzes the quantitative and qualitative impacts of endowment institutions in line with UAE Vision 2031. Findings reveal a diversified and advanced system of endowment tools—including real estate, bonds, and institutional funds—combined with digital governance and partnerships with universities and the private sector. These efforts have financed digital education, scientific research, and expanded access for low-income groups domestically and internationally. The study highlights the strong connection between educational endowments and key development goals such as quality education, poverty reduction, gender equality, and economic growth. It positions the UAE’s experience as a benchmark for transforming traditional charitable endowments into strategic tools for sustainable human development. The study concludes by recommending diversification of financing methods, enhanced digital governance, and the creation of a national index to better assess educational and social outcomes of endowments.