UAEโs Global Humanitarian Footprint
As the world prepares to observe World Humanitarian Day 2025, the United Arab Emirates has once again emerged as a global leader in humanitarian and development aid. In just one year, the UAE extended assistance worth over AED 368 billion ($100.2 billion), reaching more than 1 billion people across continents. From responding to natural disasters and conflicts to supporting long-term healthcare projects, the UAE has shown how humanitarian aid can be both immediate and sustainable.
This contribution cements the UAEโs reputation as one of the most reliable and proactive nations in global humanitarian diplomacy.
Humanitarian Missions Across the Globe
- Gaza Relief: The UAE became the largest single contributor of aid to Gaza in 2025, providing 44% of all international humanitarian support. Through Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 and the Birds of Goodness initiative, the UAE carried out 73 airdrop missions, delivering nearly 3,988 tonnes of food and essential supplies to Palestinians.
- Sudan: At the High-Level Humanitarian Conference for Sudan, the UAE pledged $200 million, bringing its total aid to Sudan in the last decade to $3.5 billion.
- Ukraine: The UAE reached more than 1.2 million people in Ukraine, including women and children. It also played a diplomatic role by mediating 16 successful prisoner exchanges, freeing 4,349 individuals.
- Asia & Africa Relief:
- Chad: 30,000 food baskets and 20,000+ blankets after floods.
- Somalia: 700 tonnes of urgent food aid delivered.
- Myanmar: 367 tonnes of emergency supplies after an earthquake.
- Albania: Firefighting teams and aircraft deployed for wildfire response.
- Chad: 30,000 food baskets and 20,000+ blankets after floods.
Sustainable Healthcare Initiatives
The Fathersโ Endowment Campaign launched in 2025 highlights the UAEโs focus on long-term development, especially healthcare. A notable example is the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Hospital and Dialysis Center in Chad, which will provide critical medical services to thousands of people.
Such projects reflect the UAEโs commitment to sustainable humanitarian aid beyond immediate relief.
See Also: UAEโs Unique Ruling Families; Internal Harmony and National Unity
IndiaโUAE Humanitarian Ties
For India, the UAEโs humanitarian spirit holds a special significance. The IndiaโUAE partnership, already strong in trade and diaspora links, extends deeply into humanitarian cooperation:
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, the UAE sent oxygen cylinders, concentrators, and relief supplies to India when the country faced its toughest health crisis.
- Indian humanitarian organizations and professionals are active partners in many UAE-led initiatives across Asia and Africa.
- The 3.5 million-strong Indian diaspora in the UAE often contributes to humanitarian fundraising and relief missions, strengthening people-to-people ties.
This cooperation not only reflects shared values of compassion but also positions India and the UAE as partners in global humanitarian action.
A Global Example of Humanitarian Diplomacy
The UAEโs $100.2B contribution ahead of World Humanitarian Day 2025 shows how nations can play a constructive role in tackling crises beyond their borders. By combining emergency relief, mediation efforts, and development projects, the UAE has established itself as a beacon of humanitarian leadership.
For India, the UAEโs role is also a reminder of how global partnerships can transform lives, inspire solidarity, and shape a more compassionate world.