The AHRF’s business model builds upon the experience of several international philanthropies. It is aimed at creating a grants budget primarily from the returns and interest on capital established as an endowment in perpetuity. The AHRF seeks to accumulate an endowment to cover the grants program as well as administrative and personnel costs.

Consequently, fundraising is a major priority with regard to ensuring the AHRF’s sustainability and its ability to provide increased resources in support of human rights in the Arab region.  

This approach of funnelling donations into an endowment rather than directly into grants is intended to ensure long-term sustainability of the AHRF's project. Importantly, it guarantees the independence of the AHRF when it comes to decision-making in terms of giving grants.