UAE pledges $550 million to UN humanitarian appeal

December 09, 2025 / 5:32 PM

Sharjah 24 – WAM: Following the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has pledged US$550 million to support the UN’s Global Humanitarian Overview (GHO) for 2026, which seeks to raise US$33 billion to assist 135 million people across 23 humanitarian operations worldwide, including initiatives for refugees and migrants.

Focus on urgent humanitarian needs

The appeal aims to protect the lives of up to 87 million people requiring urgent assistance, with US$23 billion needed for immediate response efforts. The pledge underscores the UAE’s enduring commitment to global humanitarian work and its active role in disaster and crisis response for vulnerable populations.

Reinforcing multilateral humanitarian action

This support highlights the UAE’s strong cooperation with UN agencies—particularly the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA)—and its dedication to ensuring timely access to relief. The initiative reflects President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahya’s directives to deliver rapid, effective humanitarian support.

UAE leadership affirms commitment

Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, emphasised that the UAE remains dedicated to working with UN partners to ensure aid reaches communities most affected by crises, noting that the pledge reflects the nation’s belief in international solidarity and sustainable humanitarian solutions.

UN officials welcome UAE’s support

Tom Fletcher, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, praised the UAE’s swift and generous contribution, describing it as a powerful signal of support for people in greatest need and for delivering an innovative, effective humanitarian response.

WHO highlights impact on global health

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stressed that early warning signs of health system collapse must be addressed quickly and thanked the UAE for its contribution, which will help restore essential services and save lives.

Strengthening global humanitarian partnerships

This major contribution reinforces the UAE’s strategic partnership with the UN humanitarian system and reflects its central role in addressing pressing global challenges, enhancing crisis response capabilities, and promoting stability in line with the leadership’s humanitarian vision.