DIHAD 2026 Concludes; UAE Humanitarian Organisations Sweep Humanthropy Awards
Dubai (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM – 26th Aug, 2026) The 22nd Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference and Exhibition (DIHAD 2026) concluded today at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The event brought together humanitarian organisations, government entities, international institutions, experts, academics, technology providers, and private-sector representatives.
Held under the theme "Humanitarianism in Transition: Shaping the Future of Humanitarian Action", the final day focused on "Delivering Impact: Operationalising the Future of Humanitarian Action". It highlighted efforts to translate humanitarian strategies, knowledge, and innovation into practical action and measurable outcomes. The day emphasised strengthening humanitarian preparedness and response mechanisms, enhancing operational effectiveness, and developing sustainable solutions for communities affected by crises and disasters.
The final day featured the International Emergency and Catastrophe Management (IECM) Conference under the theme "Future-Ready Action: Translating Innovation into Measurable Resilience". This conference gathered experts in emergency, crisis, and disaster management to explore how innovation, technology, and modern practices can strengthen preparedness, resilience, and response.
More than 250 entities and partners participated in the IECM Conference, including:
- Government organisations
- Emergency response agencies
- Humanitarian partners
- Technology providers
- International brands specialising in emergency, disaster, and crisis management
The programme featured 61 emergency management speakers and 59 sessions and workshops. These addressed emerging challenges in emergency and crisis management and disaster response. Over 7,500 participants from 52 countries attended, representing:
- Government officials and representatives
- Emergency management authorities
- Civil defence organisations
- Healthcare institutions
- Humanitarian organisations
- NGOs
- Red Cross and Red Crescent societies
- Charitable foundations
- Technology providers
- Academic institutions
- The private sector
The Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services had the largest local stand, while IMRES had the largest international stand.
Additionally, high-level roundtable meetings hosted by the UAE Aid Agency brought together officials, experts, and stakeholders to discuss humanitarian priorities and opportunities to strengthen coordination and collective action.
DIHAD Glasshouse / Limitless provided an interactive platform for innovative ideas, initiatives, and approaches aimed at shaping the future of humanitarian action, while the Humanthropy academy offered specialised training focused on education, research, and capacity building.
