UAE Advances Sheikh Zayed’s Humanitarian Legacy Across Borders
The UAE marks World Humanitarian Day on August 19th each year, guided by the enduring humanitarian legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who placed helping others and supporting those in need at the heart of the nation’s values.
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan continues to lead the UAE’s humanitarian efforts, reinforcing the country’s position as a global model for humanitarian response and building bridges of solidarity with peoples and communities worldwide.
The year 2026 has witnessed significant momentum in UAE humanitarian initiatives and projects, reflecting the diversity and breadth of the country’s humanitarian work.
Some notable highlights include:
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The Edge of Life campaign: Launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the campaign aimed to save five million children from hunger worldwide. It raised more than AED2.822 billion, with contributions from 44,208 individuals, companies, and humanitarian organizations.
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Eradication of river blindness: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid also announced the launch of an initiative to support efforts to eradicate river blindness, targeting seven million direct beneficiaries and 35.4 million indirect beneficiaries over three years.
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Education in Senegal: The Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation opened the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Institute for Vocational Education in the Republic of Senegal, with a capacity of approximately 1,000 students. The institute aims to equip young people with vocational and technical skills and enhance their employment prospects.
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UAE charitable organizations: These organizations have implemented educational projects in several countries, including the construction of schools and classrooms, support for students and educational environments, and initiatives to expand access to education for those most in need.
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Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) programs: The ERC implemented relief programs benefiting more than 1.5 million people in the UAE and 44 countries as part of its Ramadan programs for 2026. Their humanitarian initiatives also included projects supporting disadvantaged villages, providing essential services, and implementing health and social programs in several countries.
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International Charity Organization (ICO): The ICO implemented projects worth more than AED353 million during the first half of 2026 across healthcare, education, water, food assistance, and humanitarian relief.
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Zayed for Good Foundation: The Foundation marked its 34th anniversary this August, celebrating more than three decades of humanitarian and development achievements. Since its establishment on August 5th, 1992, the Foundation’s programs have reached more than 180 countries.
