The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been at the forefront of international humanitarian efforts in the Gaza Strip, providing extensive support to alleviate the suffering of the local population. With the region facing severe shortages in basic necessities, the UAE’s aid initiatives have become a critical lifeline for many.
Massive aid delivery
The UAE has delivered over 40,000 tonnes of urgent supplies to Gaza, showcasing its commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis. This aid has been transported through various channels, including eight aid ships, 1,271 trucks, and 414 flights, with 104 of these being air drops. The UAE’s coordinated efforts, often in collaboration with USAID and international partners, have resulted in the delivery of 2,176 tonnes of food supplies. Additionally, 300 tonnes of food relief were distributed in northern Gaza through a Maritime Corridor initiative, ensuring that vital resources reach those in desperate need.
Ensuring water supply
According to an official statement recognizing the acute water crisis in Gaza, the UAE has established six desalination plants, which collectively pump 1.2 million gallons of clean water daily. This initiative benefits over 600,000 residents, providing a much-needed source of potable water in a region where access to clean water is severely limited.
Boosting food security
To combat food insecurity, the UAE has deployed five automatic bakeries to Gaza, serving 72,000 people daily. These bakeries are complemented by support for eight existing ones, which cater to the daily needs of an additional 17,140 people. This intervention has been crucial in ensuring a steady supply of bread, a staple food in the region.
Medical assistance and health support
The UAE’s contributions extend to the health sector, where it has established two hospitals in Gaza: a 200-bed field hospital and a 100-bed floating hospital. Furthermore, 794 patients and 850 of their family members have been evacuated to UAE hospitals for advanced treatment. The UAE has also implemented the Comprehensive National System (R100), which facilitates treatment for 1,000 cancer patients and 1,000 sick children, underscoring its commitment to long-term health support in the region.
Financial contributions and initiatives
The UAE has allocated significant financial resources to support Gaza, including $20 million to UNRWA, $15 million to the Amalthea Fund for the Maritime Corridor initiative, $10 million to the WHO for health sector support, and $11.7 million to the World Food Programme (WFP) for food relief. Additionally, the “Tarahum for Gaza” campaign collected over 71,000 relief packages, and the “Birds of Goodness” campaign completed 104 airdrops, delivering 3,450 tonnes of aid.
The UAE’s efforts represent a comprehensive approach to humanitarian aid in Gaza, addressing immediate needs while also building infrastructure for sustained support. As the crisis continues, the UAE calls on the international community to increase its efforts to alleviate the suffering of the people in Gaza.