A philanthropic powerhouse shaping the United Arab Emirates’ future

Her leadership extends beyond her role as Managing Director of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group (ESAG) to her influential charitable work, particularly through the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation, which has profoundly impacted education, healthcare, and social welfare in the region. Dr. Al Gurg's journey is a testament to how business acumen and a strong sense of social responsibility can intersect to create long-lasting change.

From business to philanthropy

Dr. Al Gurg’s business career began within ESAG, where she ascended the ranks to become a leading voice in the region’s corporate world. As a conglomerate involved in manufacturing, retail, and construction, ESAG’s influence on the UAE’s economic development is well-documented. However, it is Dr. Al Gurg’s transition from business leadership to philanthropy that truly sets her apart.

The Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation, established in 2010, was born out of a deep-rooted family tradition of giving. Inspired by her father, Easa Saleh Al Gurg, who had already engaged in various charitable endeavours, Dr. Al Gurg formalised the foundation to ensure its legacy. She has always believed a business’s success should also be gauged by its contributions to society.

Impact on education and health

Education remains a central focus of Dr. Al Gurg’s philanthropic efforts. Through the foundation, she has launched numerous initiatives to support educational institutions, provide scholarships, and fund academic research. A firm advocate for education’s role in driving social change, she often states that educating one person can transform entire communities.

The foundation’s efforts go beyond financial aid. It is involved in shaping the future of education in the UAE by collaborating with government and private institutions to improve educational standards. Notably, the foundation has provided substantial funding for academic research and partnered with universities, including Dubai’s Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Healthcare is another critical area of focus for Dr. Al Gurg. As Chairperson of the Al Jalila Foundation, she has overseen significant advancements in medical research and healthcare provision across the UAE. In 2024, the Al Jalila Foundation, supported by the Dubai Chambers, spearheaded the opening of the UAE’s first comprehensive cancer hospital, funded with a donation of AED 15 million (approximately $4.08 million). This initiative highlights her commitment to ensuring accessible, world-class healthcare for all, especially those with life-threatening conditions.

Personal commitment and global reach

Though many of Dr. Al Gurg’s charitable initiatives are based in the UAE, her philanthropy has a global reach. The foundation supports international educational projects and healthcare initiatives, reflecting her belief that the power of giving transcends borders. She has expressed that we are all members of a global community, and through our combined efforts, we can achieve remarkable results. Her work in Africa and Asia, particularly in the areas of women’s education and child healthcare, has touched lives far beyond the Middle East.

Dr. Al Gurg is a strong advocate for women's empowerment. As one of the most influential Arab women, recognised by Forbes multiple times, she uses her platform to encourage young women to pursue leadership roles, particularly in sectors traditionally dominated by men. She often advises that there are no limits to what women can accomplish, emphasising the importance of believing in one's abilities. In addition to her charitable work, she has been instrumental in promoting the role of women in the business world, having served on several boards and councils, including the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Dubai Women’s Association.

Recent developments and 2024 milestones

In 2024, the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Charity Foundation marked several milestones. One of its significant achievements was the expansion of its housing programme, which provides affordable housing solutions for low-income families. This expansion, which included building over 500 new homes, aims not just to provide shelter but also to offer support in areas such as education and healthcare, creating a more comprehensive welfare system for beneficiaries.

Dr. Al Gurg’s work in 2024 also included a renewed focus on medical research, particularly in the field of cancer treatment. Partnering with the Al Jalila Foundation, her efforts have led to groundbreaking research in the UAE and greater accessibility to healthcare services for underserved populations.

A legacy of compassion and leadership

Dr. Al Gurg’s story is not just one of personal success but of a deep commitment to her community. Her charitable efforts have provided education, healthcare, and housing to thousands of individuals, making a lasting impact on the UAE and beyond. Her work has earned her numerous awards, including the Stevie Award for Women in Business and recognition by Forbes as one of the world’s most powerful Arab women. These accolades, however, only tell part of the story. She frequently mentions that true success lies not in the accolades you earn, but in the impact you have on others' lives.

Her legacy is a powerful reminder that success in business can and should be intertwined with a commitment to bettering society. As the UAE continues to grow and develop, Dr. Al Gurg’s work will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the country’s future. Her vision, driven by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility, is a beacon for future generations of business leaders and philanthropists alike.

Continuing to inspire

Dr. Al Gurg’s influence is felt not only in boardrooms but also in the lives of those she has touched through her philanthropic work. As 2024 unfolds, her focus on sustainable development, education, and healthcare continues to guide her charitable activities. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and an unwavering belief in the power of giving. Through her leadership and philanthropy, she has built a legacy that will inspire many for years to come.