Abu Dhabi: Switzerland has been officially named Guest of Honour for the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference and Exhibition – DIHAD 2025, recognising its continued contributions to the global humanitarian sector. This was announced at a high-level meeting hosted by Arthur Mattli, Ambassador of Switzerland to the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Bahrain, at the Swiss Residence on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting brought together several ambassadors and representatives of diplomatic missions in the UAE to explore avenues for strengthening cooperation in humanitarian work and development. This acknowledgment underscores the significant role of Swiss organisations and companies in addressing global challenges and supporting vulnerable communities.
At the event, Switzerland will showcase its innovative solutions and humanitarian initiatives through the Swiss Pavilion, reflecting its steadfast commitment to advancing humanitarian causes worldwide. The 21st edition of the event will focus on “Humanitarian Aid and Development in a Polarised World,” reflecting the complex global crises currently confronting the international community. Rising humanitarian needs, escalating conflicts, and the exponential impact of climate change have rendered traditional humanitarian strategies increasingly ineffective, particularly in the context of a significant decrease in available funding.
In his speech, Ambassador Arthur Mattli emphasised the importance of international cooperation, stating, ‘Humanitarian aid and development is not just giving. In a polarised world, it must rise above division, serving as a bridge that unites humanity and true collaboration.’ Dr. Abdulsalam AlMadani, Chairman of DIHAD Sustainable Humanitarian Organisation and Chairman of DISAB; Roving Ambassador of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) for the GCC Region, emphasised the meeting’s significance in raising awareness about the vital role of cooperation between countries and international organisations in addressing the escalating humanitarian challenges.
Khaled Al-Attar, Director-General of DIHAD Sustainable Humanitarian Organisation, reviewed the key achievements of the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference and Exhibition (DIHAD). The meeting was attended by several ambassadors, including Alison Milton, Ambassador of Ireland to the UAE, and other dignitaries. These attendees highlighted the importance of strengthening international partnerships and joint action to address the growing humanitarian crises.
DIHAD 2025 is an annual event organised by INDEX Conferences and Exhibitions Org. LLC, a member of INDEX Holding, and will be held from 29th April to 1st May 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The event is supported by prominent organisations, including the United Nations, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, and the Emirates Red Crescent.