MBRGI Resumes AED43 Million Food Aid Deliveries to Gaza

In line with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI) has announced the resumption of food aid deliveries worth AED43 million to the Gaza Strip. The initiative is being carried out in partnership with the UN World Food Programme (WFP) and focuses on reaching the most vulnerable families in the region with essential food supplies and relief parcels.

The food convoys began moving as soon as Gaza’s border crossings were reopened, ensuring that life-saving assistance could quickly reach those in need. This new phase of delivery is part of the UAE’s ongoing humanitarian efforts to provide aid to the people of Gaza by land, sea, and air. It also continues the UAE’s commitment, first announced in January 2024, to contribute AED43 million (US$11.7 million) in direct food aid to benefit one million residents in Gaza.

The January 2024 announcement was a continuation of the UAE’s long legacy of humanitarian support for the Palestinian people. In 2023, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum directed MBRGI to provide AED50 million in urgent relief to Palestine. Additionally, in September 2024, Dubai Humanitarian sent a shipment of 71.6 tons of medical supplies through Egypt’s El Arish port, demonstrating the UAE’s steady and reliable support for those in crisis.

Beyond food relief, MBRGI also pledged AED37 million (US$10 million) in January 2024 to support Gaza’s healthcare sector. This funding is dedicated to providing essential medical materials, with a special focus on meeting the urgent needs of children. The contribution reflects the UAE’s deep concern for improving health services and ensuring access to treatment for vulnerable communities in Gaza.

Samer AbdelJaber, WFP Regional Director for the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe, praised the ongoing partnership between MBRGI and the World Food Programme. He said, “The partnership between MBRGI and WFP embodies a shared commitment to providing food assistance and alleviating suffering for communities worldwide. This is clearly demonstrated today in our joint efforts to support the people of Gaza and offer them hope.” His statement highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing humanitarian challenges.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives is one of the region’s largest humanitarian and development organisations. In 2024, MBRGI spent over AED2.2 billion, reaching 149 million people in 118 countries through various projects. These initiatives fall under five main pillars: Humanitarian Aid & Relief, Healthcare & Disease Control, Spreading Education & Knowledge, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and Empowering Communities. Each pillar reflects a core value of the UAE’s global vision of compassion and sustainability.

Under the Humanitarian Aid & Relief pillar alone, MBRGI spent more than AED944 million, positively impacting over 37 million people around the world. These efforts include emergency response missions, food security programs, and long-term projects aimed at reducing poverty and hunger. The renewed food deliveries to Gaza fall directly within this framework, emphasizing MBRGI’s role as a lifeline for struggling populations.

Launched in 2015, MBRGI brings together over 30 humanitarian and developmental entities under one umbrella. Its mission is to tackle global challenges, promote tolerance, and invest in human potential. Through education, health programs, and relief efforts, MBRGI seeks to empower communities, support sustainable growth, and create opportunities for people to rebuild their lives.

The UAE has long been a leader in international humanitarian action, and MBRGI’s initiatives continue this proud tradition. By partnering with global organisations such as the United Nations World Food Programme, the UAE strengthens its ability to respond effectively to crises, especially in regions affected by conflict and hardship like Gaza. The renewed food aid deliveries reaffirm the UAE’s unwavering commitment to helping those in need without discrimination.

For the families in Gaza, the AED43 million food aid program represents more than just relief—it brings hope, stability, and compassion at a time of uncertainty. Each food parcel delivered is a reflection of the UAE’s belief in human dignity and its dedication to ensuring that no one is left behind in times of crisis.