UAE reopens renovated Sheikh Zayed Child Care Complex in Istanbul

The UAE has reopened the newly renovated Sheikh Zayed Child Care Complex in Istanbul that can now accommodate and provide essential care for around 700 children.

Inaugurated in 1990, the complex, inspired by the late founding father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, plays a crucial role in caring for orphans and at-risk children and offering them a safe and nurturing environment.

In 2024, the UAE had pledged AED 40.4 million towards the redevelopment of the Complex.

The redevelopment efforts were carried out in collaboration with Turkey and supported by the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation.

It saw the redevelopment of the outdoor green spaces and maintenance of12 children’s buildings, a healthcare facility, and a central kitchen.

A total of nine buildings were demolished, and 12 new buildings, a main entrance gate, and a healthcare building were constructed.

At the official ceremony, Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State, emphasised that investing in children by providing safe, healthy, and nurturing environments is fundamental to building prosperous societies and empowering future leaders.

The First Lady of Turkey, Emine Erdoğan, expressed her gratitude to the UAE for partnering with her country to work towards the "protection and care of children".