The United Arab Emirates has pledged $550 million to a United Nations global humanitarian appeal, aiming to provide critical aid to 135 million people across 23 countries. This ample commitment,announced by officials today,directly supports the UN’s larger $33 billion initiative for 2026,responding to escalating worldwide humanitarian needs. The funding will prioritize life-saving assistance for vulnerable populations including refugees,migrants,and communities impacted by ongoing crises,with a particular focus on healthcare,food security,and protection for children.
The United Arab Emirates has pledged $550 million to support a United Nations-led global humanitarian plan aimed at providing aid to 135 million people in 23 countries, officials announced. The commitment bolsters the UN’s broader appeal for $33 billion by 2026 to address urgent humanitarian needs worldwide.
The pledge underscores the UAE’s ongoing commitment to international efforts to alleviate suffering and respond to crises affecting vulnerable populations, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Currently, 87 million people require immediate assistance, with an urgent need for $23 billion in funding.
The UAE’s support will focus on strengthening multilateral humanitarian action and collaboration with UN agencies, including the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and various relief and development programs operating on the ground. This collaboration aims to ensure aid reaches those most in need efficiently and effectively, in line with the directives of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
“The UAE reaffirms its steadfast commitment to supporting global humanitarian efforts and working with our partners at the United Nations to ensure aid reaches those most affected,” said Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation. “This new pledge embodies the vision of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and our deep belief in the necessity of international solidarity and responding to urgent humanitarian appeals in an effective and sustainable manner, preserving human dignity and protecting lives.”
Responding to the announcement, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, welcomed the UAE’s contribution. “Our global appeal aims to save lives in the most affected areas and translate plans into real protection on the ground,” Fletcher said. “The generous and swift support provided by the UAE for the 2026 plan sends a powerful message, centering on supporting those most in need, and we must deliver an effective and innovative response to meet the requirements of the current stage.”
World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also expressed gratitude for the UAE’s support, noting the critical need for healthcare assistance in crisis zones. “Indicators of health system collapse often appear long before they occur, with outbreaks of epidemics, malnutrition, and preventable deaths increasing,” Dr. Ghebreyesus stated. “However, when we work together, we can restore services and save lives. I extend my sincere thanks to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the UAE for their support, which will provide vital health care to millions in desperate need.”
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell highlighted the impact the funding will have on children affected by humanitarian crises. “UNICEF appreciates the significant support provided by the UAE, which will effectively contribute to saving and improving the lives of children caught in humanitarian crises,” Russell said. “Children are always the most vulnerable during crises, and when needs exceed funding, humanitarian work faces a critical moment. We rely heavily on the strategic partnership between UNICEF and the UAE.”
Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, also welcomed the pledge, emphasizing the critical funding gap hindering aid efforts for displaced populations. “We appreciate the UAE’s steadfast commitment to humanitarian efforts, especially given the acute funding shortage that poses a significant challenge for millions of people at risk of forced displacement,” Grandi said. “Contributions from governments, such as that of the UAE, strengthen response efforts and offer hope to those most in need.”
Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the World Food Programme, stated that the UAE’s commitment is a “lifeline” as humanitarian needs increase and resources dwindle. “Amidst growing humanitarian needs and dwindling resources, the generous pledge from the UAE is a lifeline that will help ensure urgent assistance reaches those most in need,” McCain said. “We extend our sincere thanks to the UAE for its pioneering humanitarian role in these unprecedented times, and we affirm the World Food Programme’s readiness to work with the UAE to ensure this vital support reaches millions of people facing severe food insecurity around the world.”
This support builds on the existing strategic partnership between the UAE and the UN humanitarian system, reaffirming the country’s continued role in addressing the most pressing humanitarian challenges and enhancing the international community’s ability to protect lives and support stability in crisis-affected regions, in accordance with the directives of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to maintain the UAE’s leadership approach in global humanitarian work.
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