International Day of Charity: UAE making philanthropy a sustainable effort as foreign aid surpasses $98 billion

The UAE is marking the “International Day of Charity” on September 5, having provided more than Dh360 billion ($98 billion) in foreign aid since its founding in 1971 until mid-2024, highlighting its leadership in making philanthropy sustainable and inclusive.

The Gulf state has long been delivering significant support to nations and communities across the globe, trying to reduce poverty, promote economic and social development, alleviate the impact of disasters and foster peace and security.

The International Day of Charity is an annual event dedicated to improving global solidarity. The day also highlights the importance of supporting public services in health, education and housing and assisting global communities in dire need.

UAE’s deep-rooted commitment to charitable activities

Driven by its core values of generosity, solidarity and volunteerism, the UAE’s humanitarian efforts have consistently extended to support those affected by conflicts, disasters and crises, irrespective of race, religion or nationality.

Inspired by the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan, the country’s deep-rooted commitment to charitable activities has been advanced under the leadership of President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed.

In addition, the Ninth Principle of the UAE’s “Principles of the 50” highlights that the country’s foreign aid is an essential part of its vision and moral duty. These philanthropic activities are not tied to religion, colour, race, culture or political disagreements.

UAE launching high-profile humanitarian campaigns

The UAE has launched a number of high-profile humanitarian campaigns, including the “For Your Sake, Somalia” in 2017, the campaign to support Rohingya refugees in 2019, and the “Bridges of Giving” initiative in 2023 for earthquake victims in Syria and Turkey.

More recently, the country launched the “Tarahum for Gaza” campaign to aid Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict. The UAE’s efforts account for a notable 27% contribution of the total humanitarian aid delivered to the besieged enclave.

Under its Chivalrous Knight 3 operation, the UAE has established a field hospital and a floating Hospital for Gazans, besides bakeries and desalination plants. The country has also started an initiative to provide medical treatment to 1,000 injured Gazans in Emirati hospitals.

UAE ensuring better lives through selfless humanitarianism

Generosity has become an important part of the UAE’s culture. In 2018, the country pledged $50 million to fund heritage reconstruction in Iraq’s Mosul. In 2021, it made another announcement to invest $3 million as part of its post-conflict reconstruction efforts.

The UAE has a notable presence in humanitarian efforts in Sudan. The Gulf state has announced an allocation of $70 million to UN agencies and humanitarian organisations in support of efforts dedicated to alleviating the crisis in Sudan.

Heavy precipitation recently battered Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul, triggering intense flooding. The UAE leadership soon instructed the dispatch of urgent relief supplies for those affected. In response, Brazilian President Lula expressed his gratitude to the UAE.