His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated, on Monday, the "Prophet’s Neighbours" endowment project launched by the Sharjah Social Empowerment Foundation. The project marks the beginning of a series of endowments dedicated to supporting orphans and is located in Aljada area.

His Highness listened to a detailed presentation on the project and the location of the endowment facility. The land for the project, totaling 932 square metres, was generously donated by His Highness. A multi-storey building spanning a construction area of 13,835 square metres will be built on the site. The building will feature 15 floors and 75 residential apartments, with revenues from the project directed to support beneficiaries. His Highness was also briefed on other endowment initiatives by the Foundation and the various ways individuals can contribute to them.

To officially launch the project, His Highness pressed a dedicated button, marking a significant step in the development of charitable endowment work. The revenues from the project will fund humanitarian initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for orphans. His Highness and attendees also viewed a visual presentation highlighting the project's benefits.

During his speech at the event, His Highness congratulated everyone on the project launch and announced that he would personally fund the first endowment at a cost of AED 40 million. He encouraged philanthropists and those with compassionate hearts to contribute to similar endowment projects, noting that additional sites would be granted by him to the Foundation. His Highness also praised the sincere efforts of the Foundation’s staff.

Addressing the orphans supported by the Foundation, His Highness urged them to focus on their education, emphasising that all educational paths, from schools to universities, are open to them. He advised them not to be distracted from the pursuit of knowledge and assured them of future job opportunities upon graduation. His Highness said: “We are with you, and before God, we have accepted this responsibility.”

His Highness highlighted the importance of youth and children’s centres, encouraging orphans to participate in their activities. These centres, established in Sharjah, aim to support youth development by nurturing both physical and intellectual growth.

Concluding his speech, His Highness called for greater environmental awareness, particularly the planting and care of trees, noting their essential role in sustaining life and purifying the air. He said: “A tree is like a mother who nurtures her children. So we say: take care of the tree, do not trample it, because in doing so, you trample on life. The tree gives us life. We ask each of you to plant and care for a tree. Be a friend to the tree.”

At the end of the event, His Highness warmly greeted each of the Foundation’s orphans, who expressed deep gratitude for his continuous care and generous support. He posed for group and commemorative photos with them.