Dubai Duty Free, through its Foundation, has reaffirmed its long-standing strategic partnership with Dubai Cares by renewing its support for an additional 3 years (2026-2028), following the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The renewed commitment will see funds directed towards supporting Dubai Cares’ Schools2030 programme, a global education initiative that places teachers at the heart of education transformation.

The partnership, which began in 2017, will see the Dubai Duty Free Foundation continue its support of the UAE‑based global philanthropic organisation through an annual contribution of AED 1.5 million from 2026 to 2028, supporting the implementation of Schools2030 across multiple countries.

Schools2030 is a multi-country initiative implemented by the Aga Khan Foundation and aims to improve holistic learning outcomes by placing teacher agency at the centre of education transformation. The programme’s second phase focuses on scaling proven tools and approaches, including Human Centred Design and holistic learning assessment, through cross-sectoral and multi-stakeholder partnerships that connect schools, systems and societies.

The MoU signing took place in the presence of Ramesh Cidambi, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free and H.E. Dr. Tariq Al Gurg, Chief Executive Officer and Vice-Chairman of Dubai Cares.

Commenting on the MoU signing, Ramesh Cidambi said, “Our renewed partnership with Dubai Carers reflects Dubai Duty Free’s long term commitment to advancing accessible and quality education for underprivileged communities around the world. By continuing our support for initiatives such as Schools2030, we are reinforcing our role in driving meaningful education solutions by empowering teachers, strengthening learning outcomes and fostering education systems that are more responsive to the needs of students and communities.”

Highlighting the importance of the partnership, H.E. Dr. Tariq Al Gurg, Chief Executive Officer and Vice-Chairman of Dubai Cares, said: “Partnerships anchored in long‑term commitment are essential for achieving sustainable impact. The Dubai Duty Free Foundation continues to set a strong example of philanthropic leadership by investing consistently in education, one of the most powerful drivers of human development. The Foundation’s renewed support enables us to scale proven, teacher‑led approaches that improve holistic learning outcomes and help shape more resilient and equitable education systems worldwide.”

Also present at the MoU signing were other senior executives from Dubai Duty Free including, Salah Tahlak, Deputy Managing Director, Dr. Bernard Creed, Senior Vice President – Finance, Sinead El Sibai, Senior Vice President – Marketing, Olympia Pineda, Manager – Corporate Responsibility Department, as well as Zainab Faraidooni, Deputy Director – Partnerships at Dubai Cares.

For further information, please contact Bernard Aquino, Marketing Department,