UAE has 249 registered NGOs, ministry says

Dubai - Out of the total, 204 are classified as non-benefit public associations, 18 are solidarity funds, and 27 NGOs.

The UAE currently has a total of 249 non-profit associations, according to the Ministry of Community Development (MoCD). From January to mid-July this year, nine associations and one non-government organisation (NGO) were officially recognised.
Out of the total, 204 are classified as non-benefit public associations, 18 are solidarity funds, and 27 NGOs. The MoCD said these non-profit groups - especially charities and humanitarian associations - have helped several people and communities amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
They have contributed to the education sector by giving tablets to underprivileged students and supported healthcare teams by providing medical devices and tools to fight the virus. In-kind assistance and food aid were also handed out to people in need.
Over the past four years, the number of non-benefit public associations in the country have steadily increased. It went from 166 in 2016 to 175 in 2017; 185 in 2018; 195 in 2019; and reaching 204 until the end of July this year.
Abu Dhabi has the highest number of associations with 77, followed by Dubai (57), Sharjah (29), Ras Al Khaimah (16), Fujairah and Eastern Region (13), Ajman (7) and Umm Al Quwain (5).
In terms of categories, public and cultural service associations are the most common with 75 registered groups all over the UAE, followed by professional associations (35), popular arts associations (30), humanitarian associations (28), community associations (15), theatre associations (13) and women's associations (8).
Amid the pandemic, associations offering public and cultural services, including volunteer groups, have helped spread awareness and educate people on precautions that must be taken to fight the spread of Covid-19.
Women's associations carried out virtual activities to keep families and communities together, while professional groups rolled out initiatives to develop its members' skills. Popular arts associations and theatres were also active, celebrating cultural heritage and promoting theatrical movement through performances and artwork exhibits held remotely.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com 

• Dubai