The parents of a five-year-old girl whose donated organs saved three lives have been honoured at the Abu Dhabi Awards. Salem and Fatima Al Mansoori received the recognition from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at a ceremony held at Qasr Al Hosn for their selfless decision following the tragic loss of their daughter, Zahia, in 2025.
A Family’s Selfless Act Honoured
In the midst of their grief, the Al Mansoori family consented to donate Zahia’s organs, providing a new chance at life for three people. Her heart was transplanted into a child, one kidney was given to another child, and the second kidney went to an adult patient.
During the ceremony, Dr Ali Al Obeidli, chairman of the UAE National Transplant Committee, explained that an organ transplant restores hope not only for the patient but for their entire family. He noted that the Al Mansoori family’s decision created a lasting legacy for their daughter and raised awareness for the UAE’s Hayat organ donation programme. Zahia’s brother, Salem, said the family chose donation because they loved her deeply and wanted her memory to live on by helping others.
Recognising Leaders in Community and Culture
Salem and Fatima Al Mansoori were among ten individuals recognised for their significant contributions to society. For two decades, the Abu Dhabi Awards have celebrated acts of generosity and selflessness, reflecting the values established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
This Year’s Esteemed Honourees
The other nine recipients honoured for their impactful work include:
- Obaid Kenish Al Hameli: A businessman and philanthropist noted for his efforts in community development and for establishing an award for academic excellence in the Al Dhafra region in 1998.
- Moza Mohamed Al Hafeiti: A teacher who created the Interactive Digital Prayer Rug and launched a digital library during the pandemic to support students.
- Rashed Abdullah Al Nuaimi: A national figure who served as Minister of Foreign Affairs and has established numerous healthcare and charitable foundations.
- The late Mohamed Ibrahim Obaidallah: Recognised posthumously for his humanitarian work, including founding the Obaidallah Geriatric Hospital in Ras Al Khaimah.
- Hamama Obaid Khamis: A traditional healer and midwife from Al Dhaid who provided free care to her community for over 70 years.
- Abdelmonem Bin Eisa Alserkal: A key figure in shaping the UAE’s cultural landscape, he founded Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue and the Alserkal Arts Foundation.
- The late David Heard: Honoured for his work documenting the UAE’s modern history. He donated over 440 archival units to NYU Abu Dhabi.
- The late Sultan Ali Al Owais: A philanthropist who founded the Sultan bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Award in 1987 and supported the construction of schools and hospitals.
- Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak: Recognised for his leadership in government and business, including his role as Group CEO of Mubadala Investment Company.
Since its inception, the Abu Dhabi Awards has recognised 110 individuals from 18 different countries across fields such as healthcare, education, and cultural preservation. The awards continue to highlight the UAE’s commitment to social harmony and responsibility.
