UAE foreign aid hit AED 360 billion since 1971

emirates7 - In 2024, the UAE reinforced its leadership in global humanitarian efforts, emphasizing its commitment to international solidarity and cooperation.

The UAE’s values of generosity and humanitarian solidarity have become defining characteristics of its approach, which was further highlighted during the celebration of the 53rd anniversary of Eid Al Etihad on December 2. Since its founding in 1971, the UAE has contributed AED360 billion (US$98 billion) in foreign aid by mid-2024, significantly impacting global poverty reduction, disaster relief, economic and social development, and the promotion of global peace and stability.

Notable initiatives included the launch of the AED20 billion Erth Zayed Philanthropies by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, which aims to lasting impact in communities worldwide, fostering sustainable development, security, and prosperity.

Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, introduced the Mothers’ Endowment campaign, establishing an AED 1 billion fund to support the education of millions globally, honoring mothers as the first teachers of future generations.

The UAE also made a significant contribution to the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty, with H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, announcing a US$100 million allocation through the UAE Aid Agency to fight hunger and poverty worldwide.

The UAE’s global health initiatives include a donation of AED55 million to the Global Institute for Disease Elimination (GLIDE), continuing the UAE's commitment to global health improvements. The country also committed to providing medical treatment for 1,000 wounded children and 1,000 cancer patients from Gaza.

The UAE Ministry of Defence's "Birds of Goodness" operation began airdropping humanitarian aid to accessible areas in Gaza, while President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also directed the delivery of a US$100 million emergency relief package to Lebanon. This is part of ongoing efforts to assist Lebanon amid its challenges, including the deployment of medical supplies and relief materials as part of the "UAE stands with Lebanon" campaign.

Additionally, the UAE provided US$30 million in urgent aid to displaced Lebanese people in Syria and delivered 240 tonnes of aid specifically for Lebanese women under the guidance of H.H. Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Emirates”.

In Sudan, the UAE pledged US$100 million in April 2024 for humanitarian assistance and launched projects in Chad worth US$10.25 million to support women affected by the conflict in Sudan. The UAE also committed US$50 million to the second phase of the Lives and Livelihoods Fund 2.0 (LLF 2.0), a program supporting sustainable development and poverty reduction in Islamic Development Bank member countries.

Globally, the UAE continued its humanitarian presence by offering relief to countries affected by natural disasters, including Burkina Faso, Brazil, the Philippines, Ethiopia, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mauritania, Nigeria, Nepal, South Africa, Ivory Coast, and Cameroon.