Barclays Bank PLC, UAE unveils 'Ball of Hope' campaign

From February 25 to March 8, the ball will be prominently located within the grounds of the Dubai Tennis Stadium during the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships. Players, VIPs, spectators and staff will be encouraged to sign on the ball as they pass, and for each signature received, Barclays will donate Dhs1 to charity.

Amin Habib, Managing Director of Barclays UAE and Gulf, was the first to sign the ball in a ceremony held on Thursday, February 21 at the stadium.

"We, as Barclays Bank and as individuals, have a commitment to look after the less fortunate members of our community," said Habib. "This initiative allows spectators at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships to be a part of something that will give encouragement and hope to others."

Barclays has committed to donating a minimum of Dhs100,000. The final amount will be divided equally between Dubai Duty Free Foundation, an organisation that raises funds for causes that benefit children in underprivileged areas, and the Save the Children, a UK-based organisation that works to protect children caught up in emergencies and catastrophes around the world.

"For over 15 years this tournament has been a part of the Dubai community; as title sponsor, we want ensure that we use the opportunity to contribute to the spirit this tournament has fostered," continued Habib.

The initiative is part of a multi-faceted community outreach campaign that Barclays has launched in conjunction with the recent announcement of their $9m agreement with Dubai Duty Free, the owner and organiser of the annual tournament, that will see Barclays become the title sponsor of the Dubai Tennis Championships for the next three years.