In a heartwarming ceremony at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, crowned Ahmed Zeinoon as the Arab Hope Maker 2025. Zeinoon, a dedicated Moroccan humanitarian, was recognized for his work raising awareness about Xeroderma Pigmentosum, a rare genetic condition affecting children, known as Children of the Moon. This condition makes them highly vulnerable to skin cancer when exposed to sunlight.
Zeinoon, who provides protective gear for affected children, was one of three finalists awarded Dh1 million each for their contributions to society. The other two winners included Khadeeja Al Karty, a Moroccan woman who turned her home into a refuge for cancer patients, and Samar Nadeem, an Egyptian who rescues abandoned senior citizens.
This ceremony marks the fifth edition of the Arab Hope Makers initiative, which acknowledges individuals making a difference in the Arab world. This year’s event received over 26,000 nominations, highlighting the growing need for humanitarian efforts in the region.
Arab Hope Maker 2025: Impact of the Winners
Zeinoon, deeply honored by the recognition, emphasized his mission to change the global perception of children with Xeroderma Pigmentosum. “Many of these children have lost their faces because they lack proper protection, and as a result, face bullying. My goal is to raise awareness and provide them with the necessary protection,” he said.
Al Karty shared how the loss of her husband to cancer led her to open her home as a sanctuary for women. “We offer over 30 women food, shelter, and free transportation every day. Since starting this initiative, we’ve supported over 60,000 women,” she explained.
Meanwhile, Samar’s mission in Egypt focuses on rescuing abandoned seniors from the streets. Despite facing resistance, she remains steadfast in her efforts. “These individuals have been neglected for so long that kindness is unfamiliar to them. I urge everyone to show kindness to their parents,” Samar shared.
A Legacy of Change
A video shown during the ceremony highlighted how previous winners expanded their initiatives with the prize money. Many were able to triple the number of people they helped after receiving the Arab Hope Makers award.
Rigorous Selection Process
The finalists were chosen by a panel based on the real, positive changes their initiatives created. The panel looked at the initiative’s theme, the challenges faced, and its long-term potential.
Since its inception in 2017, the Arab Hope Maker 2025 initiative has gathered over 320,000 nominations. It continues to inspire people across the Arab world to dedicate their time and resources to making a difference.
