The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has provided over Dh10.8 billion ($2.94 billion) in financial aid to more than 228 million people globally in only 15 years. This was announced by the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC), the humanitarian arm of the UAE government, on Tuesday.
According to news agency Wam, the ERC used the money to support relief operations, development projects, orphan sponsorships, and reconstruction programmes both within and outside of the UAE.
The domestic efforts of the ERC have raised over Dh1.45 billion, providing relief, support, and shelter to at least 2.5 million people in the UAE. Meanwhile, over Dh7 billion has been used for overseas programmes, reaching more than 214 million people.
These aid programmes have gone on to help orphans, their families, people with disabilities, and students.
The milestone was announced by Dr Hamdan Al Mazrouei, chairman of the board of directors of the ERC, at a meeting held at the headquarters of the Authority. Dr Al Mazrouei praised the support of President Sheikh Mohamed, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and chairman of the ERC.
Dr Al Mazrouei further stated that the ERC had significantly contributed to supporting people in troubled regions. The ERC has become a key player in the humanitarian sector, providing vital relief efforts to worldwide regions affected by disasters.
More than Dh338 million has been raised for medical care, while over Dh374 million has helped those in need of educational assistance. The organisation has also donated more than Dh79 million to prisoners and their families, and Dh62.9 million to people with disabilities. ERC also donated Dh180 million to Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr programmes, which included providing 75,000 iftar meals in Syria.
The UAE has consistently supported humanitarian causes, and this recent announcement reinforces its commitment to providing relief to those in need.
