Taawon Earns Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2026

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Zayed Award for Human Fraternity has revealed Palestinian non-profit Taawon as the latest recipient of its prestigious award for 2026. The organization will be celebrated at the annual ceremony held at the Founder’s Memorial in Abu Dhabi on 4 February 2026.

Taawon is recognized alongside notable entities, including the historic peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia as well as advocate for Afghan girls’ education, Zarqa Yaftali.

The award honors Taawon for its extensive humanitarian efforts that benefit over one million individuals across Palestine annually. Since its founding in 1983, the organization has channeled more than US$1 billion into initiatives centered around education, empowering youth, supporting orphans, preserving cultural heritage, community development, health, agriculture, and emergency humanitarian response.

With over 8,200 projects completed, Taawon plays a critical role in enhancing the economic, social, and cultural landscape for young people and their communities. The organization is also dedicated to safeguarding Palestinian heritage while fostering sustainable growth.

Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, the Secretary-General of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, remarked on Taawon’s selection due to their profound humanitarian contributions and their commitment to strengthening Palestinian society in adversity. He emphasized the organization's transition from immediate aid to sustainable development in areas like education and healthcare.

Dr. Nabil H. Qaddumi, Chairman of Taawon’s Board of Directors, expressed pride in receiving the award and conveyed gratitude towards the judging panel. He noted that this recognition would enhance Taawon’s outreach and bring global attention to pressing humanitarian needs in Palestine.

Previously, the award acknowledged the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace pact and Zarqa Yaftali as its inaugural honorees. Leaders from both countries welcomed the acknowledgment, affirming that it bolsters peace initiatives in the Caucasus region. Yaftali remarked that the recognition serves as a beacon of hope for Afghan girls and women everywhere.

Since its inception in 2019, the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity has recognized 20 laureates from diverse countries, including notable figures like Pope Francis and Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb, in appreciation of their role in promoting peace, dialogue, and human coexistence.