The United Arab Emirates has pledged $550 million to the United Nations’ 2026 Global Humanitarian Response Plan, injecting critical funding into a global effort aiming to raise $33 billion to assist 135 million people across 23 crisis zones.
The commitment, made under the directives of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, targets the plan’s most urgent priorities. A core objective is delivering life-saving aid to 87 million people in acute need, a segment of the response requiring $23 billion. The funding will also bolster programs for refugees and migrants worldwide.
“This commitment reflects the directives of our leadership and the UAE’s firm belief in global solidarity,” said Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashimi, Minister of State for International Cooperation. She emphasized ongoing collaboration with the UN to ensure aid is delivered “in a timely, effective, and sustainable manner” to the world’s most vulnerable.
Senior UN officials swiftly welcomed the substantial pledge, framing it as a vital boost amid escalating global needs and strained resources.
“This contribution sends a strong message of support to those most in need,” stated Tom Fletcher, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs.
The heads of major UN agencies outlined the pledge’s direct impact. World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said it would play a “vital role” in delivering life-saving health services. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell highlighted its importance for protecting children in crises, while UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said it would strengthen responses for forcibly displaced populations.
Cindy McCain, Executive Director of the World Food Programme, called the pledge a “lifeline.”
The contribution reinforces the UAE’s strategic partnership with the UN humanitarian system and underscores its continued role as a major donor in global crisis response, aligning with national leadership directives to maintain a frontline position in international humanitarian efforts.
TunisianMonitorOnline (Douha Essaafi)
