Sheikh Hamdan contributed in supporting the maintenance of orphanages, schools and hospitals in most of the poor countries around the world. In early 1997, the Al Maktoum Foundation launched its humanitarian campaign through the cultural centre that had been established in Dublin, Ireland. This was the nucleus for the charity drives initiated by Sheikh Hamdan which later extended to more than sixty countries around the world. Two years later, the Foundation shifted its headquarters to Dubai, ushering in an even stronger drive from within the United Arab Emirates. The Foundation was primarily interested in the building of mosques in several countries, as well as the establishment of multipurpose cultural and educational centres through which thousands of students could benefit. The Al Maktoum Foundation's contributions have extended tremendously in reach and in impact as compared to its initial objectives and goals. In conjunction with other charity organizations in the UAE and abroad, it has contributed to the relief campaigns organized in the countries affected by war, famine, epidemic and other natural calamities. Palestine, Afghanistan, Turkey, Kosovo and so many other places have experienced the Foundation's humanitarian embrace.

The Foundation also participated in the establishment of medical centres throughout the Arab world starting with the United Arab Emirates. It established a series of rehabilitation centres (for individuals with special needs) in Dubai. It also supports several special-mission medical societies such as the thalassemia and handicapped person societies. Al Maktoum Foundation has also extended financial assistance to medical students in many countries. It financed the creation of a complete ward at the Maternity Hospital in Afghanistan which was lacking the necessary medical services. Additionally, the Foundation has sponsored hundreds of pupils and has contributed significantly to the educational process, in addition to sponsoring parentless children, and providing food, clothes and medicines to the needy.