Dubai Cares, a UAE-based philanthropic organization said it has raised more than Dh1 million ($27,218) through its “Burj of Giving” initiative in support of child education in developing countries.

Dubai Cares unveiled 20 miniature Burj Khalifa structures painted by prominent Emirati artists, called the “Burj of Giving” at a special ceremony organized in partnership with The Ara Gallery and Emaar Properties.

The event, which was held in Burj Plaza in Downtown Dubai, also included an auction by Christie’s, the world’s largest fine arts auction house, of a special structure painted by renowned artist, Abdulqader Al Rais.

It was attended by participating artists as well as individuals and corporations that purchased the miniature structures.

The winning bid of the auctioned structure amounted to Dh130,000. All proceeds from the sale and auction of the structures will go towards Dubai Cares’ primary education programs in developing countries.

Speaking at the event, CEO Tariq Al Gurg said: “The support we received for this initiative is yet another example of how the spirit of philanthropy is deeply rooted within the UAE community. We are particularly grateful for the support we received and are truly inspired by the creativity the artists expressed in painting these representations of the Burj Khalifa, one of the world’s most iconic structures.”

“Flagship initiatives such as this, set an example of innovative collaboration between members of the UAE business, non-profit and art sectors to help improve the lives of millions of children around the world. We hope this initiative inspires other organizations to follow suit and implement creative approaches to fundraising by involving the community at large,” he added.

Ahmad Al Falasi, the executive director, Property Management, Emaar Properties, said: "Burj Khalifa symbolises the spirit of global collaboration and the can-do spirit of Dubai, and serves as the referral point for engineers, architects, and artists."

"The Burj of Giving initiative not only highlights how Burj Khalifa serves as an inspiration for our local artists, but we are also honoured that it serves a noble cause in supporting Dubai’s flagship philanthropic organization, further underlining our city as a beacon of hope for people across the region," he added.

Mouza Mohammed Al Abbar, the founder of The Ara Gallery said, "We are very fortunate to be part of this great cause. The Ara Gallery believes strongly in giving back to the community and it is with great pleasure that we do so through Dubai Cares with the support of Burj Khalifa and the 17 Emirati artists."

Dubai Cares was launched in September 2007 by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to improve access to quality primary education for children in developing countries.

It works with organizations such as The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Care International, GAIN, Global Network, Oxfam GB, Plan International, Room to Read, Save the Children, Scholastic and Unicef.-TradeArabia News Service