In tribute to the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives Foundation, in cooperation with Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, organised the “Ahmed Bin Rashid Humanitarian Bridge” event on Saturday at the Dubai World Trade Centre. During the event, more than 10 million meals were prepared in support of the people of Gaza. The initiative honours the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s legacy of giving.The event was attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; His Excellency Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives Foundation; and a number of senior officials.The event reflected the UAE community's deeply rooted values of generosity. Community members, volunteers and admirers of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid, may God rest his soul, took part in preparing food aid for needy families and children in Gaza.The event saw strong community participation, with volunteers helping prepare meals to ease the suffering of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. The initiative highlighted the values of giving, solidarity and volunteerism. It also reinforced a culture of community participation and humanitarian action. The “Ahmed Bin Rashid Humanitarian Bridge” expressed appreciation for the humanitarian legacy of the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He was known for supporting those in need and championing community and charitable initiatives.His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said: “The late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, may God have mercy on him, was throughout his life a symbol of generosity, humility and sincere service to Dubai and the UAE.”His Highness added: “The virtues of the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his stature will remain firmly rooted in our hearts. His actions and words will continue to inspire us. We will always remember his sincerity, his approach to work, his dedication to serving his country and his care for the people.”His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the “Ahmed Bin Rashid Humanitarian Bridge” initiative, and the broad participation it attracted, reflect the spirit of giving rooted in UAE society. He said this spirit is strengthened by the country's leadership and reflects the UAE’s commitment to supporting people in need during times of hardship.His Highness said: “This event carries a message of love and loyalty to the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, may God have mercy on him. He was a model of humility, compassion and generosity. He will remain alive in our hearts through his deeds and humanity. The UAE’s humanitarian initiatives will continue to be a lifeline for families and children in need. They are guided by national values that regard gratitude to the nation’s figures and service to humanity as a noble duty passed from one generation to the next.”A message of gratitudeHis Excellency Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi said the “Ahmed Bin Rashid Humanitarian Bridge” carries important humanitarian messages. It reflects the authenticity of UAE society, the nobility of its values and traditions, and its loyalty to the principles that guided the life of the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.His Excellency said: “The broad participation in this community event is a message of thanks and appreciation to the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It recognises his contributions to our nation. Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid was among the pioneers of national service in the UAE. He made important national contributions and played a significant social role. Gratitude for such leaders lives in every heart, and loyalty to them is an integral part of the values of the Emirati people.”His Excellency Mohammed Al Gergawi added: “This event is a gesture of loyalty and affection for a respected national figure known for his humanity, kindness, compassion, humility and generosity. The humanitarian event held in his memory reflected the true character of the Emirati people, who value their leaders and remain loyal to their contributions. Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid was involved in many charitable initiatives. The farewell he received reflected the warmth, humility and approachability that defined his personality.”
