Emaar to pioneer corporate social responsibility initiatives in the UAE community

The pioneering action came after Emaar Chairman Mohamed Ali Alabbar recommended a series of initiatives as part of the company's new programme on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

Tim Sebastian, world renowned British television personality, will be Emaar's advisor on this initiative, following the real estate company's decision to form a dynamic CSR division in the company.

'We are re-doubling our efforts in the area of CSR and building knowledge and best practices, while setting an example in corporate transparency. We hope others will do the same. Making profits is not enough. The greatest privilege is to support the society from which we draw our sustenance,' Alabbar said.

'Emaar takes these responsibilities very seriously. We care deeply about the environment and the societies in which we operate, and we're determined to play our part in caring for the disadvantaged and promoting civic values, thereby supporting Dubai Crown Prince HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's 2010 master plan of economic growth,' Alabbar said.

He emphasized that he had been calling for radical change in the Arab world for some time, but words were no longer enough. 'Corporate Social Responsibility is about recognising a changing environment and showing leadership. Businesses need to realise that by implementing socially responsible and sustainable programmes that benefit the society and raise the standard of living, they are also helping to make their own businesses highly sustainable,' Alabbar said.

Sebastian led discussions during the preliminary meeting, which included representatives from the Red Crescent, the UAE Ministry of Health and the Al Noor Training Center for children with special needs, among others. The officials will be submitting detailed requests for funding shortly.

'I am delighted Emaar is spearheading such a worthwhile venture and feel confident we can make a real difference to many lives,' Sebastian said.

Emaar said it will coordinate future efforts as well as hold regular meetings to review progress. Participants at the meeting highlighted a shortage of information about medical problems, as well as disorganized fund-raising and lack of a clear aid strategy.

Emaar's action follows its involvement in several community initiatives. The company has already participated in several health and environmental projects with the Dubai Municipality, as well as with schools for the physically challenged and handicapped.

Alabbar had recently announced the instituting of The Dubai Mall Fund. This bold initiative will provide AED 20 million as seed money to encourage UAE nationals develop new retail business strategies for The Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping mall which is part of the Burj Dubai Development project.

'As an organisation with global reach, I believe that Emaar will remain profitable in the long term because we meet people's expectations and work with them to address mutual concerns,' Alabbar added.