Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the seventh cycle of the Arab Hope Makers on October 18, 2026, directing the search toward individuals, teams and organisations dedicated to humanitarian work that creates positive change in their communities. The Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai framed the initiative as a platform to identify and honour those who embody values of giving and optimism throughout the region. His Highness posted on X that societies live by hope, people look forward to a better future and young people live on the hope of a better future.
Sheikh Mohammed added in the post that the journey will not stop at inspiring humanity and building hope and moving communities toward the better. The announcement outlined requirements for participants including fluency in the language of giving, prior experience in humanitarian or community service and a positive outlook on life with no age restriction. The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives which oversees the programme will receive nominations through its official portal.
The initiative began in 2017 when Sheikh Mohammed first posted a creative advertisement on his social media accounts offering a position as Hope Maker with a reward of AED1 million according to records from the Emirates News Agency. That opening edition drew more than 65,000 submissions from across the Arab world exceeding the original target of 20,000. Cumulative nominations have since surpassed 335,000 inspiring stories across the first six editions a tally the news agency has reported in coverage of prior cycles.
Previous honorees have included Fouzia Jbara Mahmoudi of Morocco who founded Operation Smile to deliver free care for children with cleft lips and palates. The foundation has completed more than 19,000 surgeries and provided dental services to over 120,000 individuals with the support of more than 650 volunteers WAM profiles show. Kuwaiti Hend Alhajri was recognised for her volunteer teaching in Tanzania that evolved into wider regional efforts to support education and community development.
Winners in each cycle receive AED1 million to expand their projects while additional finalists have received the same amount in select editions at the direction of Sheikh Mohammed. Nominations are assessed on criteria such as measurable community impact, innovation, sustainability and potential to serve as a model for other areas the organising body has stated. The programme focuses exclusively on voluntary non-profit contributions that address challenges without any expectation of personal gain.
Applications for the 2026 cycle opened immediately upon the announcement with submissions accepted via the initiative’s dedicated website. The search aims to highlight stories that combat despair and promote a culture of collaboration and positivity across Arab societies. Past cycles have featured themes ranging from health and education to youth empowerment and cultural preservation according to summaries published by the Emirates News Agency.
