A prominent businessman has made headlines by contributing an astounding Dh3 billion to the Fathers Endowment campaign, initiated by the Dubai Ruler on February 21. This generous donation comes from Mirwais Azizi, the founder and chairman of the Azizi Group, and is dedicated to the memory of his late daughter, Farishta Azizi, who tragically passed away after battling a severe form of cancer. The funds will be allocated towards constructing a non-profit hospital in Dubai, aimed at providing free and affordable healthcare services to cancer patients across the UAE. In a statement made to Khaleej Times during the Arab Hope Maker 2025 event in Dubai, Azizi emphasized that this facility will not only offer treatment but will also house a research center that will incorporate cutting-edge cancer treatment technologies. This initiative ensures that residents of the UAE will have access to world-class medical care without the need to travel abroad.
The hospital is set to be part of a larger humanitarian medical complex, which will include additional facilities for research and medical training. This remarkable contribution is noted as the largest single donation from the UAE’s private sector towards a humanitarian cause. Construction is slated to begin this year, with plans for similar hospitals to be established in various countries around the globe. The Fathers Endowment initiative, spearheaded by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, aims to honor fathers in the UAE by creating a sustainable fund dedicated to healthcare and treatment for those in need.
The launch of this campaign aligns with Sheikh Mohammed’s tradition of initiating charitable endeavors during Ramadan. Farishta Azizi, an architect by profession, was diagnosed with cancer several years ago. Although she initially went into remission after treatment, her illness returned aggressively. In a heartfelt video shared at the event, her brother Farhad Azizi, CEO of the Azizi Group, reflected on their family’s fortunate ability to provide top-tier medical care for Farishta. He expressed hope that this significant donation would assist those who lack similar resources for their treatment needs.
