Circle is a peer network dedicated to strengthening the impact and effectiveness of philanthropy across the Middle East

We bring together donors at all stages and from all sectors to connect with each other, learn from each other, and find new ways to achieve their goals. We do this in two ways:

Knowledge sharing

Our curated resources combine practical insights with inspirational voices to help members grow their knowledge, deepen their expertise, and explore new thinking around effective giving. Whether through conversations with leading donors or how-to guides, Circle gives funders the knowledge they need to take the next step on their learning journey.

Connect and convene

We offer workshops, exclusive events, and networking opportunities that enable members to share ideas, ask questions, and find new pathways to action. The result is a vibrant community where funders can learn, connect with peers, and explore synergies for collaboration.

What we offer

Circle provides access to expert resources on effective philanthropy, exclusive events, and the Circle Index, a searchable database of the region's leading foundations and nonprofit organisations.

Resources

Find guides, case studies, and inspiring insights from leading philanthropists and foundations in our resource hub.

Explore resources

Events

Grow your network and knowledge with our expert workshops and exclusive member networking events.

Explore events

Circle Index

Learn who is funding what, and where, with Circle’s directory of nonprofit organisations, foundations, social enterprises, and philanthropists.

Explore the index

Networking

Visit your membership dashboard to check out the latest resources and connect with other members in the network.

Explore membership

Partnering for impact

Circle is a joint initiative between Philanthropy Age and the Pearl Initiative, and is supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

Philanthropy Age

Philanthropy Age is the leading source of philanthropic news, views, interviews and analysis for the Arab region, with a focus on inspiring and supporting effective giving. Written for and about the region's most prominent philanthropists, nonprofits, donor collaboratives and social enterprises, Philanthropy Age inspires readers to give transparently, and with purpose.

Since 2013, the platform has played a pivotal role in elevating the conversation around philanthropy in the Middle East, acting as a forum for the exchange of ideas and experiences, and showcasing organisations and individuals working to make a difference.

Philanthropy Age is a grantee of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and overseen by the UAE offices of Touchline.

www.philanthropyage.org

Pearl Initiative

Pearl Initiative is a leading UAE-based nonprofit organisation working to improve corporate accountability and transparency in the GCC. Launched in 2010, Pearl Initiative was developed in cooperation with the United Nations Office for Partnerships, and has a strategic partnership with the United Nations Global Compact. Pearl Initiative brings together business, government and civil-society decision makers to share best business practices and help maximise the economic opportunities available to companies within the GCC. The Pearl Initiative also helps Gulf-based university students to identify and embrace strong ethics as they embark on their future careers.

www.pearlinitiative.org