A Renewed Humanitarian Commitment from the UAE
The United Arab Emirates has announced a significant contribution of US$15 million to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). This funding supports UNHCR’s humanitarian response to the ongoing crisis in Sudan and the neighboring countries affected by the conflict. The pledge was made during the UNHCR Pledging Conference for the 2026 Global Appeal and reinforces the UAE’s long-standing commitment to addressing global humanitarian needs.
The UAE has consistently positioned itself as a strong supporter of international relief efforts. By funding food programs, healthcare initiatives, shelter projects, and refugee support services, the country continues to demonstrate a proactive and compassionate approach to helping those affected by instability and violence.
UAE Emphasizes Shared Global Responsibility
Jamal Al Musharakh, the UAE’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other International Organisations in Geneva, emphasized the urgent need for collective global responsibility. He stated that the world is witnessing unprecedented levels of displacement caused by conflict, persecution, political instability, and climate-related disasters. These conditions have created a humanitarian environment that requires countries to work together with heightened commitment and cooperation.
He highlighted that supporting displaced populations is not solely a regional obligation but a global responsibility. Millions of people have lost their homes, livelihoods, and access to basic services. According to Al Musharakh, humanitarian action must be rooted in solidarity, empathy, and strategic coordination. He stressed that the UAE views these principles as essential for effective assistance and long-term impact.
Addressing Crises Across Conflict-Stricken Regions
Al Musharakh also shed light on the scale of humanitarian suffering beyond Sudan. He referenced the crises in South Sudan, the Sahel region, Myanmar, and Ukraine, all of which continue to force families into displacement. These conflicts have created long-term instability, and many affected communities face persistent threats, including violence, hunger, and lack of medical care.
He further noted that internal displacement remains alarmingly high in the Great Lakes region and the Horn of Africa. These areas are heavily impacted by a combination of political violence, civil conflict, and environmental degradation. Droughts, floods, and other climate-related events have intensified the vulnerability of communities already grappling with instability.
According to him, women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities face the highest levels of risk. They often experience limited access to protection services and increased exposure to harmful environments. For these groups, targeted assistance and specialized humanitarian programming are critical.
UAE’s Support Built on Principled Humanitarian Action
The UAE’s new contribution aligns with its broader strategy of supporting displaced communities through principled humanitarian aid. The country’s aid agency, UAE AID, works closely with UNHCR and other partners to ensure that relief efforts are organized, impactful, and delivered with respect for human dignity.
By prioritizing essential services such as safe shelter, clean water, healthcare, and education, the UAE helps displaced people rebuild their lives with a sense of security and hope. Al Musharakh highlighted that every refugee and internally displaced person deserves to live with dignity and to have access to opportunities that support their long-term stability.
The US$15 million pledge will be directed toward strengthening protection mechanisms, improving emergency response capacity, and enhancing long-term resilience programs for Sudanese families and communities hosting displaced individuals.
Importance of Predictable and Sustainable Funding
One of the key messages from the UAE delegation was the necessity of predictable humanitarian funding. When financial support is stable and appropriately distributed, organizations like UNHCR can plan operations effectively and provide consistent assistance to those in need. Predictable funding also helps avoid service interruptions that could place vulnerable people at even greater risk.
The UAE stressed the importance of equitable burden-sharing among the international community. Humanitarian crises cannot be resolved without contributions from multiple nations and institutions. Through its pledge, the UAE aims to encourage stronger international participation and demonstrate leadership in global humanitarian efforts.
This contribution will reinforce UNHCR programs that include emergency shelter distribution, protection services for vulnerable groups, livelihood opportunities, and community-based support systems that aid long-term recovery.
UAE’s Long-Term Commitment to Sudan
The US$15 million allocation is part of a broader pattern of continued humanitarian support from the UAE toward Sudan. Since the conflict started in 2023, the UAE has provided more than US$784 million in humanitarian aid, making it the second-largest donor after the United States. This assistance has included medical supplies, food relief, emergency shelter materials, and airlifts of essential goods to support families caught in the crisis.
Between 2015 and 2025, the UAE’s total humanitarian assistance to Sudan exceeded US$4.24 billion. These contributions have not only supported immediate relief efforts but have also strengthened development projects, healthcare systems, and community infrastructures that benefit Sudanese citizens in the long run.
The UAE’s ongoing involvement reflects its belief that stability in Sudan is essential for regional peace and global security. Supporting development, resilience, and recovery is central to helping communities rebuild and ensure a more stable future.
The Role of the UNHCR Pledging Conference
The UNHCR Pledging Conference, held annually at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, serves as a platform for Member States to announce voluntary contributions that fund global humanitarian operations. These contributions are vital for UNHCR’s work, which includes emergency response, refugee protection services, education initiatives, and programs that help refugees integrate into host communities.
For the UAE, participation in this conference demonstrates its commitment to international cooperation and to strengthening the global humanitarian system. By contributing significantly, the UAE supports UNHCR’s capacity to provide life-saving assistance and to implement long-term strategies for displaced populations worldwide.
Building Hope and Stability for Sudanese Communities
The UAE’s pledge is more than a financial contribution; it is a reflection of the nation’s humanitarian values and dedication to supporting those facing extreme hardship. The assistance aims to bring relief, protection, and hope to Sudanese families affected by conflict, while also supporting the communities that have opened their doors to displaced individuals.
Through this contribution, the UAE aims to help strengthen stability, reduce suffering, and empower affected families to move toward a safer and more hopeful future. The pledge also supports global efforts to promote peacebuilding and sustainable development in regions that have been deeply impacted by conflict.
The UAE remains committed to standing beside Sudan and working with international partners to help communities recover, rebuild, and regain their path toward a more secure future.
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