Dubai: Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation (AGF) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a World Bank Group member, have unveiled a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing employment opportunities for vulnerable populations in the Arab States. The new initiative focuses on creating sustainable jobs for refugees, internally displaced, and marginalized youth in Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria.
According to Emirates News Agency, the collaboration seeks to replace short-term aid with long-term employment solutions by integrating philanthropic capital with private sector expertise. The initiative, grounded in market-based solutions, is designed to support the recovery and resilience of fragile economies in the region. This innovative model aligns with the growing global acknowledgment that sustainable livelihoods are vital for lasting recovery.
AGF and IFC, in partnership with the Kingdom of the Netherlands and supported by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), hosted the 1001 Stars JOBS4All Forum in Dubai to mark the launch. The forum gathered leaders from various sectors to discuss inclusive job creation strategies across the Middle East, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The event included high-level panels, a strategic signing ceremony, and a matchmaking lunch to encourage collaboration and employer commitments.
Dr. Sonia Ben Jaafar, CEO of AGF, emphasized that the initiative is about mobilizing diverse stakeholders to build sustainable and dignified livelihood opportunities. The collaboration with IFC represents a pioneering model in the region, combining philanthropic and development financing with private sector expertise to enhance educational and employment prospects for young people in challenging environments.
The partnership aims to provide nearly 7,000 young individuals from Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Jordan with market-relevant skills training, Business English, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship support. The Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair Refugee Education Fund will lead the implementation, working closely with IFC to engage private sector partners through its 1001 Stars project to expand access to inclusive jobs.
IFC Vice President Hela Cheikhrouhou highlighted the project's commitment to creating job opportunities for marginalized groups, including youth, women, refugees, and people with disabilities. The 1001 Stars project, launched in June 2024, focuses on integrating vulnerable groups into the workforce by collaborating with companies across the Middle East, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
The AGF-IFC initiative underscores a shift from traditional aid models towards sustainable development approaches that foster long-term stability and opportunity in the Arab region. This collaboration exemplifies how institutions can work together to address urgent challenges and promote dignified employment opportunities.