His Highness President Sheikh Mohamed has issued Federal Decree No. 27 of 2024 to establish the UAE Aid Agency, a new entity under the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, with the mandate to expand and enhance the UAE’s role in global humanitarian and development efforts. The agency, which will operate as an independent legal entity, has been granted full juridical personality to administer foreign aid initiatives, primarily focusing on emergency response, post-conflict recovery, and capacity-building programs.
The UAE Aid Agency’s mission aligns with the country’s general policy on international humanitarian affairs. It will be responsible for planning, overseeing, executing, and monitoring official government assistance, particularly in disaster relief and sustainable development programs.
Speaking about the newly established agency, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice-President and Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, remarked, “The establishment of the UAE Aid Agency represents a continuation of the steadfast humanitarian legacy laid by our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.”
He continued, “This approach reflects the UAE’s dedication to addressing humanitarian challenges and fostering sustainable development globally. The country pursues this mission under the wise leadership and enduring support of President Sheikh Mohamed, affirming the commitment of the leadership, government, and nation to advancing this noble humanitarian endeavour.”
UAE’s Commitment to Global Development
His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, added, “The establishment of the UAE Aid Agency reaffirms the UAE’s humanitarian role in providing essential assistance, improving living conditions, and supporting communities and people across all continents.”
He emphasized the UAE’s commitment to collaborate with international partners to create a tangible and lasting positive impact, especially in regions affected by crises and instability. The agency will prioritize key sectors such as educational services, healthcare, and infrastructure, aiming to contribute to sustainable development and prosperity for all.
Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, echoed this sentiment, saying, “With the formation of the UAE Aid Agency, we are reaffirming our commitment to addressing global humanitarian challenges and promoting sustainable development in a strategic and coordinated manner.”
He added that the agency aims to enhance the impact of UAE’s global priority foreign aid, focusing on maximizing positive outcomes in humanitarian relief programs, initiatives, and developmental projects worldwide, aligning with the UAE’s increasing role in regional and international humanitarian and developmental efforts.
A Legacy of Generosity
The UAE’s contributions to global aid reflect its longstanding commitment to humanitarian work. Since its founding by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the country has donated over $98 billion (Dh360 billion) in foreign assistance, benefiting more than one billion people worldwide. The UAE continues to be recognized as one of the world’s most generous donors, with its efforts now set to be further amplified through the UAE Aid Agency.
This new entity underscores the UAE’s vision to expand its humanitarian footprint and its commitment to fostering sustainable development globally through strategic aid and collaboration.
