UAE’s continued leadership in humanitarian efforts
In 2024, the UAE continued to lead in global humanitarian efforts, reaffirming its commitment to fostering international solidarity and mutual support in all forms. The values of giving and humanitarian cooperation remain central to the UAE's approach, as it celebrated the 53rd anniversary of its union on December 2.
Since its establishment in 1971, the UAE has provided AED 360 billion ($98 billion) in foreign aid by mid-2024, significantly impacting poverty reduction, disaster response, economic and social development, and promoting international stability and peace.
Launch of humanitarian initiatives in 2024
The year 2024 saw numerous humanitarian initiatives in the UAE, with His Highness Sheikh
Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, launching the "Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative," a AED 20 billion initiative aimed at supporting the most vulnerable communities worldwide. To implement this initiative, a federal decree established the "Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Foundation," which will oversee various global humanitarian programs.
Additionally, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed issued a federal decree to form the International Humanitarian Affairs Council, responsible for managing international humanitarian issues. The Emirates International Aid Agency was also established by decree to carry out the UAE's foreign aid programs.
Launch of the “Mother’s Endowment” campaign
In a related move, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, launched the "Mother's Endowment" campaign, creating a one billion dirham fund to support the education of millions globally, honoring mothers in the UAE in a sustainable way.
In less than a month since its launch, the campaign surpassed its goals, and it was decided to keep contributions open throughout the year.
UAE’s strategic partnership with the G20
As part of the UAE’s strategic partnership with the G20, His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, announced a $100 million allocation to the Global Alliance to Fight Hunger and Poverty through the Emirates International Aid Agency.
Global health initiatives: Reaching the last mile
The "Reaching the Last Mile" global health initiative, supported by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, pledged AED 55 million to the Global Institute for the Elimination of Infectious Diseases (Glide), marking the second grant since the institute's launch in 2019.
UAE’s pivotal role in humanitarian responses
The UAE continues to play a vital role in enhancing the global response to crises, conflicts, and disasters. It was one of the first countries to respond to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza through Operation "Gallant Knight 3," one of the largest relief operations in the sector.
Humanitarian aid in Gaza
As part of the operation, the UAE established a field hospital, sent a floating hospital to Egypt’s Port of Arish, and launched a prosthetic limbs initiative for the injured. Additionally, the UAE initiated the evacuation of 1,000 children and 1,000 cancer patients from Gaza for specialized treatment. A polio vaccination campaign was also launched for over 640,000 children under the age of 10, alongside the delivery of humanitarian and medical aid to the region by air, land, and sea.
Operation “Birds of Goodness” in Gaza
The Joint Operations Command launched Operation "Birds of Goodness" to deliver humanitarian aid to remote areas of the Gaza Strip, including the establishment of six water desalination plants in Arish, Egypt, benefiting over one million people. It also repaired damaged water infrastructure in Khan Yunis and North Gaza and distributed aid to families in various shelters.
UAE aid for Lebanon
In response to Lebanon’s challenges, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, ordered a $100 million urgent relief aid package for Lebanon. The UAE launched a national relief campaign, "The Emirates is with you, Lebanon," and also provided $30 million in aid for displaced Lebanese in Syria. The UAE sent 18 aircraft, including three to Syria, carrying 772 tons of aid, along with a ship carrying 2,000 tons of relief supplies. Additionally, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak sent 240 tons of supplies for Lebanese mothers.
Humanitarian aid for Sudan and Chad
In Sudan, the UAE pledged $100 million in support of humanitarian efforts, and in September, it launched new initiatives in Chad, contributing $10.25 million to support Sudanese refugees.
UAE’s global humanitarian presence
The UAE also continued its global humanitarian presence, providing aid to countries including Burkina Faso, Brazil, the Philippines, Ethiopia, Kenya, and others. Additionally, the UAE committed $50 million to the second phase of the Lives and Livelihoods Fund, supporting sustainable development in Islamic Development Bank member states. The UAE also signed agreements with the World Health Organization to establish a global emergency logistics center and provide $3 million for Sudanese refugees in Chad.
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