President Sheikh Mohamed reaffirmed the UAE’s dedication to philanthropy, emphasizing it as a fundamental aspect of the nation’s identity. Ahead of Zayed Humanitarian Day, he hosted a distinguished delegation of charitable organizations, recognizing their role in advancing humanitarian initiatives both locally and globally.
During the gathering at Qasr Al Bateen in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed met with members of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, an entity he established to lead international relief efforts. The event also brought together representatives from its affiliated groups and over 90 public and private donors. He commended their contributions in continuing the legacy of giving set by the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Erth Zayed Philanthropies, under the leadership of Sheikh Thayeb bin Mohamed, coordinates aid initiatives across key sectors such as global health, education, economic empowerment, sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental preservation.
As the UAE prepares to mark Zayed Humanitarian Day on the 19th of Ramadan, Sheikh Mohamed stressed that philanthropy is not merely an act of generosity but a national duty and privilege. This annual observance commemorates the passing of Sheikh Zayed in 2004 and serves as a platform for launching humanitarian initiatives across the country.
Last year, Sheikh Mohamed announced a Dh20 billion ($5.44 billion) humanitarian initiative aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable communities worldwide. This commitment underscores the UAE’s ongoing efforts to support those in need, with initiatives addressing global health challenges, disaster relief, and the impact of climate change.
In 2017, the UAE launched the Reaching the Last Mile Fund, a decade-long $500 million program backed by Sheikh Mohamed and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. This initiative targets the eradication of neglected tropical diseases, polio, and malaria, reinforcing the nation’s role in global health advancements.
The UAE has also been a steadfast supporter of humanitarian relief efforts in regions affected by crises. Since the onset of the Israel-Gaza conflict in October 2023, the Emirates has dispatched over 65,000 tonnes of aid through air, land, and sea. A recent Emirati aid ship carrying 5,800 tonnes of essential supplies arrived at Egypt’s Al Arish port, ensuring continued support for Palestinian communities. Additionally, UAE-led air drops have delivered over 3,700 tonnes of aid to inaccessible areas.
In February, the UAE committed an additional $200 million in aid to Sudan, addressing the severe humanitarian crisis resulting from the ongoing civil war. The conflict, which has been raging since April 2023, has led to mass displacement and loss of life, making international intervention critical.
Through strategic global partnerships and unwavering humanitarian initiatives, the UAE continues to champion Sheikh Zayed’s vision of uplifting communities in need, reinforcing its role as a leader in philanthropy and international aid.