UAE's Unwavering Commitment: $111.8 Million for Gaza Food Security in 2024

 As the war between Israel and Hamas continues to devastate Gaza, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as the largest contributor to humanitarian relief efforts, pledging over $828 million (Dh3.04 billion) since the conflict erupted in October 2023. According to recent data from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the UAE's contribution accounts for 42% of the total international support provided to Palestinians, solidifying the country's leadership in humanitarian assistance.

A Rapid and Unprecedented Response

The UAE was among the first to respond when the conflict intensified. The nation quickly mobilized to deliver aid through all available routes—air, land, and sea—sending critical relief to Gaza. As the humanitarian crisis deepens, the UAE’s commitment has not wavered, with aid continuously arriving to provide relief to the people of Gaza.

Just days ago, the UAE dispatched 20 trucks filled with winter essentials, including jackets, coats, blankets, gloves, and staple food items such as flour, sugar, rice, and cooking oil. These vital supplies aim to help the Palestinian population survive the harsh winter conditions while the war rages on.

Operation Chivalrous Knight 3: Nonstop Relief Efforts

Through its "Operation Chivalrous Knight 3," the UAE has facilitated the delivery of hundreds of trucks carrying life-saving aid, including food, medical supplies, baby formula, water, shelter materials, and clothing. Key provisions have included:

• Medical equipment for hospitals overwhelmed by casualties.
• Food supplies such as Emirati dates, flour, and rice.
• Baby formula and care packages for children and women.
• Tents for shelter and blankets for warmth.

Additionally, the UAE has provided ambulances, water tanks, and sewage systems to ensure that basic infrastructure can support the growing needs of displaced individuals.

Focus on Food Security: UAE’s Major Contribution

One of the UAE's most significant contributions to Gaza has been in the realm of food security. In 2024 alone, the UAE provided $111.8 million in food security aid, helping to address the immediate and long-term needs of Gaza’s population. The breakdown of food security funding includes:

• $940,920 for 12,000 food parcels as part of the “Tarahum - for Gaza” campaign.
• $1,019,330 for 13,000 food parcels in continued support for Palestinians affected by the conflict.
• $30,000,000 for a cargo ship delivering 4,016 tonnes of relief items.
• $21,239,040 for the second Emirati aid ship, which carried 4,544 tonnes of essential supplies including food, medical aid, and shelter materials.
• $21,618,300 for the third aid ship, which transported 4,630 tonnes of relief, including nutritional supplements for children and winter clothes.

Additionally, UAE provided vital support through humanitarian airbridges, with:

• 28 flights, amounting to $7,165,200, delivering 1,000 tonnes of relief.
• 46 flights, totaling $10,907,670, carrying 1,447 tonnes of aid.

The UAE also facilitated food aid through a sea corridor from Cyprus to Gaza, contributing $2,000,000.

The UAE’s Global Leadership in Humanitarian Aid

The UAE’s efforts underscore its long-standing commitment to international solidarity and humanitarian relief. The country’s leadership, along with the support of Emiratis and expatriates, has brought vital assistance to millions affected by the ongoing war. The UAE has consistently demonstrated that in times of crisis, it is not just a leader in the region, but a beacon of compassion and humanity on the world stage.

The contributions to Gaza are part of the UAE’s broader humanitarian initiatives, which focus on alleviating suffering, promoting peace, and fostering sustainable development around the world. Through its ongoing support, the UAE is helping to ensure that Gaza’s most vulnerable populations receive the aid they need to survive.

With a total commitment of $828 million in Gaza aid since October 2023, the UAE stands at the forefront of global humanitarian efforts. By focusing on food security, medical relief, and essential infrastructure, the UAE continues to make a significant difference in the lives of Palestinians caught in the conflict. As the UAE's aid efforts persist, the country remains a symbol of hope, resilience, and solidarity for those in need.