Abu dhabi: The UAE will mark the International Day of Charity tomorrow, observed annually on 5th September, reaffirming its dedication to humanitarian and civilizational responsibilities through charitable, humanitarian, and developmental efforts worldwide. The nation's long-standing tradition of charitable work, deeply rooted since the Union's foundation, has been instrumental in supporting those in need, providing disaster relief, and fostering international solidarity during various global crises, wars, and conflicts.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE's commitment is in line with the Ninth Principle of the Principles of the 50, emphasizing that foreign humanitarian aid is a core aspect of the country's vision and moral obligation towards less fortunate communities. The UAE's foreign aid has reached a value exceeding AED360 billion (US$98 billion) up to mid-2024.
This year, the UAE leads international efforts to assist Palestinians in the Gaza Strip through 'Operation Chivalrous Knight 3'. It continues to offer humanitarian and relief support to Sudan, with aid surpassing US$3.5 billion over the past decade. By last February, UAE humanitarian and relief initiatives benefited over 1.2 million individuals in Ukraine.
In response to natural disasters, the UAE extended aid to Chad in January 2025, distributing 30,000 food baskets and over 20,000 blankets to areas impacted by floods. Additionally, 700 tonnes of urgent food supplies were sent to flood-affected regions in Somalia, and urgent humanitarian aid reached Myanmar, supporting nearly 80,000 earthquake victims.
On 1st September, the UAE announced urgent humanitarian assistance to 960 families affected by floods on Yemen's West Coast. The aid, comprising shelter tents, food supplies, and essential relief items, aims to support the families through difficult living conditions.
Furthermore, an agreement was signed between the UAE Aid Agency and the Government of Chad to build the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Hospital and a dialysis center in N'Djamena, providing advanced health services and care for dialysis patients.
This year also witnessed the launch of significant humanitarian initiatives, such as the Fathers' Endowment campaign. Part of the proceeds will fund healthcare and treatment for the underprivileged and support health systems in less fortunate communities by developing hospitals and securing medicines.